Obituary: Sanford Orkin
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sanford Orkin, age 93, on March 4, 2025.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sanford Orkin, age 93, on March 4, 2025.
He met the love of his life, Barbara Hartman, at the age of 15, and they spent more than 70 years together. Sanford was a graduate of Druid Hills High School, playing in the marching band until he was recruited by the football team as a running back. At only five feet and change, his speed earned him the nickname, “Mighty Mite.”
Just short of his graduation from the University of Georgia, where he remained a lifetime Bulldog fan, he was drafted to the Army on his wedding day. Upon his completion of service, he returned to the family business where he had been working since 12 years of age. He became the president of Orkin Pest Control, turning the company around and leading it through its successful sale in 1964. He spent the rest of his career as a private investor, serving on multiple boards, and advising diverse non-profits and businesses.
Sanford maintained a strong commitment to supporting philanthropic endeavors spanning across education, healthcare, the arts, Jewish community, and more. His even bigger impact resides with his value and commitment to family.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Hartman of 66 years, his parents, Otto Orkin and Miriam Rosenthal, siblings, Bernice Orkin Kaye, Gloria Orkin Bregman, and William “Billy” Orkin, and grandson, Joseph Soriano. He is survived by his children, Sherri (Moe) Soriano, Laurie (David) Ginburg, Michael (Judy) Orkin, and Kenny Orkin. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Julie (Stephen), Lauren, Brian (René), Joanna (Jake), Samara (Brandon), Brennen (Nate), Kailey (Joseph), Andrew (Krysten), and Elliott and 11 great-grandchildren.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Weinstein Hospice, or the charity of your choice. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 6, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 followed by a private burial. Funeral arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.
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