Jess Orr

Jess Orr went home to be with his Lord and Savior on August 29, 2025, at the age of 38. Though his life was shortened by health complications following a courageous private battle, Jess was defined not by this struggle, but by the depth of his compassion, his humor, and the love he poured into others. His family shares this openly to shed light on the challenges he faced while emphasizing the amazing person he was.

Born in Duluth and raised in Superior, WI, Jess graduated from Superior High School in 2005 and later earned his degree from the University of Wisconsin–Superior. During college, he worked at Grandma’s Restaurant in Canal Park, where he met his wife, Karlye. After graduation, Jess and Karlye moved to Arizona, where they spent 10 adventure-filled years as he began his career in banking. In recent years, Maple Grove, Minnesota became home and he most recently worked for Huntington Bank as a Business Banking Client Manager.

Jess was best known for his kind heart and unwavering compassion for others, especially animals and those less fortunate. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back—literally. His love for his rescue dogs was unmatched; he shared life with his sweet Pickles and is now reunited with his beloved jack Russell, Kato, who was waiting for him.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Jess enjoyed playing and watching basketball, football, golf, and tennis. He was a die-hard Packers fan and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on. He also had a deep love for live music and delighted in discovering new bands. Jess loved seafood - he was known for single-handedly keeping king crab legs in stock at the local Lunds & Byerlys and for making some of the best scallops around.

Jess will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and the unconditional love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Jess is survived by his devoted wife, Karlye; his cherished dog, Pickles; his parents, Randy (Tabatha) Orr and Sharie (Mike) O’Brien; step-siblings; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his loyal dog, Kato.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the incredible care team at Essentia for their compassion and support during Jess’s final weeks and also to extend our profound appreciation to his closest friends who showed unwavering support.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM on September 13, 2025 at Downs-LeSage Funeral Home, 1304 Hammond Avenue in Superior with a Memorial Service following at 2:00 PM with Pastor Mark Pavola as officiant. A Celebration of Life will follow at Vintage Italian Pizza, 1201 Tower Avenue in Superior.

To honor Jess’s love for animals, guests are invited to make a donation to the Humane Society of Douglas County, PO Box 891, Superior, WI 54880 or PJ’s Rescue, PO Box 16551, Duluth, MN 55816.

To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.downs-lesage.com.