Obituary

Robert J. Orozco

Robert Jesus Orozco, born to Jesus and Elizabeth Orozco on March 14, 1930, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, peacefully passed away, on January 2, 2026.  He was surrounded by his loving family when he took his last breath this side of heaven, then opened his eyes to see our Heavenly Father face to face. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend.

Bob served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1950. He attended Springfield College, Massachusetts where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education in 1955.  He loved all sports, from swimming, tennis, handball, golf, volleyball, and fishing, to the “less active sports” like, Friday night poker with the guys, coin collecting, and card games with friends.

His love for physical education and training was evident in his numerous awards acquired during his 65 year career with the YMCA.  In 1938, at the age of eight years old, Bob’s third grade teacher awarded him “The Worthy Boy Scholarship” to the YMCA which set his trajectory for a lifelong career in physical fitness that would benefit generations to come. He learned to swim at the YMCA and as a result, he later taught swimming and swam for his High School Swim Team, which was the catalyst to becoming the Director of Red Cross Swimming Program.  He was selected to be the first National YMCA Aquatic Director, where he assisted in the development of several aquatic programs. In March of 2008, he received the South Coast YMCA’s Lifetime Achievement Honor Award in recognition of being the first “Million-dollar Man”, a title given by the YMCA for his leadership in raising the largest amount of money over his lifetime for youth and family programs.  He’s considered a legend at the YMCA as the oldest participating staff member in their history.  He had an amazing career and a life well lived! “Well done good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:21

Bob’s dedication to family, friendships, and the YMCA were unmatched.  He never met a stranger and always made time to cultivate new and lifelong friendships.  Referred to affectionately as “Papa” by his six grandchildren and two great grandchildren, he will always be remembered as a happy and joyful grandpa who loved to camp in the backyard, “garage sailing” on the weekends, 4 am donut runs, building puzzles together, penny collecting, walks in the park, watching a game on tv, and of course any type of exercise which was always welcomed for time well spent.  He encouraged his grandkids to dream big and work hard for what’s important to them. Bob greeted everyone with a brilliant smile, a handshake, a hug, or a wave.  Everyone knew when he was near because his boisterous laughter would fill the room.  He loved life, embraced every opportunity to try something new, and found joy in the little things like the turning colors of autumn leaves, a simple stroll at the beach, or just sitting on his front porch with his sweet furry friend Bo, to wave as neighbors drove by.  He enjoyed meeting his pals for breakfast, meeting with his Men’s Bible Study Group, and serving others in general.  He was always ready and willing to help a friend in need. Bob was an inspiration to so many and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.

Bob is survived by his wife of 37 years, Janet, son Bob Orozco & Sharon in heaven, daughter & son-in-law Linda & Andrew Kay, Stepchildren: Debra & Bobby Kilmer, Sonya & Cliff Lett, Gary & Lisa Toler, Grandchildren: Meredith & Peter Glotfelty, Lindsey & Oleg Budachov, Mitchell Orozco, Katherine & Nick Papageorges, Megan Kilmer, Noah & Kaitlyn Lett, Greatgrandchildren, Harper & Maverick Papageorges, and soon to arrive Baby Boy Lett. Brothers and sister-in-law: Steve & Joan Orozco and Jesse Orozco.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.YMCA.org: “Laguna Niguel Child & Youth Development annual campaign 2026” (select Laguna Niguel CYD)

A Memorial Service will be held in Bob’s honor on January 25, 2026 1:00-3:00pm at The Laguna Niguel Community Center 29751 Crown Valley Parkway Laguna Niguel, CA 92677