Orville V. Crain

April 6, 1950 - May 6, 2022

Orville V. Crain, 72, passed away on Friday, May 6, 2022 at his home in Muskegon. He was born on April 6, 1950 in Muskegon to Verol O. and Donna (Knowles) Crain, and lived all of his life in the area. Orville loved the Muskegon community and as he aged, became increasingly invested in causes advancing better understanding, increased equity and improved relationships. His work life included eclectic jobs in sales, real estate, building, innovations and entrepreneurship. Orville was one of the founders of Klever Innovations, inventors of the “Klever Kutter” box and packaging cutter. He held patents on 4 other innovative products and was involved in groups supporting emerging inventors and entrepreneurs. On May 30, 2015, Orville married Susan Cloutier-Myers in Muskegon. He retired that year, continuing his activity in the company and his association with the Muskegon Inventor Network. He found a love in his involvement with and commitment to the Muskegon Rotary Club, and served as the membership chair at the local and district level. Orville was especially dedicated to addressing racism and equity issues, and considered himself WOKE and an ally. He enjoyed family, Muskegon Lake life, traveling, and research. Orville was a lifelong learner, a voracious reader and a big thinker. He valued family above all. Survivors include his wife, Susan Crain; five children, Matthew Crain, Kara (Nick) Vanderweele, Kelly (Doug) Weiler, Stephen Thiele, Cheyenne Thiele; 10 grandchildren; one brother, Gary (Mary) Crain; one sister, Norma (Larry) Hunt, and first wife, Sally (Nichols) Hendrixon. He was preceded in death by his previous wife, Marty (Cramblit) Crain; his parents; one sister, Reba Crain; and one brother, Roger. A memorial service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, May 14, 2022 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444 with Rev. Sherwin Brantsen officiating. There will be a reception to celebrate Orville’s life immediately following the service. Visitation will be held 12:00-2:00 PM on Saturday before the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of Orville’s favorite charities: The Orville and Susan Crain Trust at The Community Foundation for Muskegon County, Community enCompass, Read Muskegon, or The Boys and Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore. Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com,