It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dad, Orlando Luis, aged 77, who departed this world on May 31, 2024, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Orlando was born in Madeira, Portugal, to Virgínia (Freitas) Luís and José da Mata Luís. In 1960, he immigrated to the United States with his family, settling in Lowell, MA, where he would later meet the love of his life, Jo-Ann (Abbott). Orlando and Jo-ann shared 50 beautiful years of marriage until her passing in 2017. Together, they built a warm and loving home and raised a family that he cherished dearly. Orlando had a profound love for golf, enjoying countless rounds with his dear friends Dave Nadeau, Kenny Edwards, and Dave Nadeau Jr. His passion for bowling was equally significant, and even traveled on the Pro Tour with his lifelong friend and fellow bowler, Mike Geyer. His dedication to the sport was evident in his work at Collins Bowladrome in Billerica, MA, where he worked for the past 35 years. Orlando made numerous friends and some he called family, to name a few, Mike Rea and Maureen Collins. Orlando found joy in simple pleasures, often playing Keno with his wife Joann and later with friends at Stelio’s in Billerica where he visited regularly. His infectious spirit and zest for life touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He always greeted everyone with a nice and comforting smile. “A dad smile” His goofy sense of humor will also be missed. Orlando is survived by his brother, Gil Luis, and his wife Ana Maria of Madeira, Portugal, and his late brother Duarte Luis and his wife Marsha. He leaves behind his beloved children: George Luis and his wife Kerry of Nashua, NH; Shannon (Luis) Gosse and her husband Bill of Tewksbury, MA; Sean Luis of Dracut, MA; and Heather Landry and Harold Rich of Lowell, MA. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Kenny and his girlfriend Jess, Kaitlyn and her husband Buck, Nikole, Kaleb, Skyla-Jo, Penelope, and Brady, and his great-grandchildren Nathan Adam, and Mackenzie Jo. Many nieces and nephews. Orlando’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for his family and friends will be deeply missed. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him. Rest in peace, Orlando. Your legacy of love and joy will live on in our hearts forever.
A celebration of Orlando's life will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, June 7, 2024, at St. Frances Church, 115 Wheeler Rd., Dracut MA. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Edgar J. Racicot Inc. Funeral Home, 1400 Broadway Rd., Dracut. Online condolences may be shared at racicotfuneralhome.com