Lillian K. Ordiway

September 8, 1925 - May 7, 2014

Lillian Karlyn Frid Ordiway, 88, of Clarion, died peacefully but unexpectedly at her home on May 7, 2014. Born in Mt. Jewett, PA, on September 8, 1925, she was the daughter of Gustav and Mattea Johnson Frid. A 1943 graduate of Mt. Jewett High School, Lillian worked as a law office secretary for Pennsylvania House Representative Albert W. Johnson in Smethport. She was married on February 7, 1948 to Verle Ordiway. During her children’s school years she was a homemaker who truly knew how to “keep house.” Her bread-baking skills were unparalleled. She later worked in the Men’s Department at Wein’s Clothing Store in Clarion. She enjoyed visiting with the customers as much as making a sale. Many local residents will remember her from her long tenure there.  Lillian treasured the simple life and counted Clarion County’s many Amish families among her dearest friends. She loved music, Christmas movies, snowfall, wild birds, and knick-knacks, Amish quilts and antiques. Her Victorian Christmas tree reflected Lillian’s appreciation of collectibles and the past. She proudly proclaimed herself “old-fashioned.” Lillian is survived by four children, Trace Ordiway and his wife, Lori, of Dallas, TX, Kirby Ordiway of Austin, TX, Holly Ordiway Thiem of Clarion, and Clark Ordiway of Clarion; a step-daughter Kay Ordiway Clark and her husband, Frank, of Lake Mary, FL; and a brother, Norman Frid of Grand Haven, MI. She is also survived by grandchildren Mathieu Thiem and his wife, Brooklyne, Sam Thiem, Crowe Thiem, Brett Ordiway, Josh Ordiway, and Seth Ordiway; and one great-grandchild, Asa Thiem. She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Verle Norman Ordiway; two brothers, Oscar and Eric Frid; and a sister, Ruth Frid Bixby. A memorial service will be held at 2 P.M. on Monday, May 12, 2014, at the Grace Lutheran Church, Clarion, with Pastor Harold O. Jacobson, pastor of the Grace Lutheran Church, presiding.  A gathering will be held to celebrate her life at her home after the service. Per her wishes, Lillian was cremated, and her ashes will be scattered from the Kinzua Bridge in McKean County, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Charitable Deeds and Services, 98 Hickory Nut Lane, Knox, PA 16232.  A memorial service will be held at 2 P.M. on Monday, May 12, 2014, at the Grace Lutheran Church, Clarion.