Jason Orr ('20)

Honoring Jason through the Jason R. Orr Memorial Fund

Jason Orr, class of 2020, in running clothes
Jason was born and raised in Sammamish, WA and graduated from Eastlake High School in 2016. He attended Gonzaga University where he studied Mechanical Engineering, served as a Resident Assistant, joined a band, and truly flourished. He graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 2020. His lifelong dream was to be an engineer for Boeing, which he proudly achieved.

Perpetually curious to learn and grow, he was constantly striving for excellence. His hobbies ranged from reading classic literature (“The Count of Monte Cristo” was a favorite) to music to embracing the outdoors through mountain biking, running, skiing, hiking, and watersports. He had a sense of urgency to make the most of each day and never settled for less.

The words he lived by

"I would rather be ashes than dust!
I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot.
I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet.
The function of man is to live, not to exist.
I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them.
I shall use my time."
Jack London (one of his favorite authors) Credo

A person for others

While his accolades showcased his amazing work ethic, his character was the quality that made Jason truly one-of-a-kind. Jason could light up a room with his energetic, exuberant presence and penetrate the souls of those around him. Always focusing on others, he never expected anything in return. He had a way of making others feel comfortable, cared for, and heard. He had the unique capacity to be funny, yet deep; driven, yet humble; hardworking, yet fun; opinionated, yet open-minded. He challenged those around him to think deeper, to try harder, to be BETTER.

His commitment to and unconditional love for his family was a top priority in his life. Not just a brother and son, he was truly a best friend and role model to his parents and sister.

(20+) “I think I took family for granted... - Gonzaga Parents and Families | Facebook post

The Jason R. Orr Memorial Fund was established by the Orr family and friends to continue Jason’s legacy of caring deeply for others.

Jason Orr, class of 2020, eating a cookie in a kitchen

Jason Orr, class of 2020, on a beach

headshot of jason orr in scholarly regalia

Jason Orr, class of 2020, in a Volkswagen bug car