Irene "Cookie" Orlin

Irene "Cookie" Orlin, 76, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and deep love for others.

Born on April 8, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, Cookie was the beloved daughter of Leon and Laura (Mitchell) Jaskot. Known for her vibrant personality and compassionate heart, Cookie had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and cared for. Her years working as a bartender weren't just a job-they were an extension of her greatest joy: building relationships. Whether sharing a heartfelt conversation or simply offering a listening ear, Cookie had a way of turning strangers into friends and friends into family.

A devoted mother and proud grandmother, Cookie's greatest treasures were her daughter, Heather Orlin (Joel Vargas) of Gary, and her grandson, Ashton Vargas. Her love for them was unwavering and evident in all she did.

Cookie also leaves behind her loving sisters, Geraldine (Donald) Rajski of Kentucky, Nonnie Jaskot of La Porte, and Janice Jaskot of Colorado; sisters-in-law, Diane Jaskot and Nancy Jaskot; brother-in-law, Kirk Vanderberg; and many cherished nieces and nephews who will always remember her kindness, humor, and the meals she so lovingly prepared for every gathering.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Sean Orlin; her sister, Bernadine Jaskot; and her brothers, Davy, Raymond, Leon Jr., and Arnold Jaskot.

Cookie expressed her love most clearly through acts of service-especially in the kitchen. Her joy in feeding others was a true reflection of her giving spirit. She believed no one should leave her home hungry or without a good laugh. She also found peace and satisfaction in gardening-whether tending to her vegetable patch or nurturing her many houseplants, Cookie's hands were rarely idle, and her care extended to every living thing she touched.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date, when family and friends can come together to celebrate Cookie's life and the joy she brought to so many.

In honor of her generous heart, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army of La Porte, 3240 Monroe Street, La Porte, IN 46350 or The Jane Bernard Animal Adoption Center, 2855 IN 2, La Porte, IN 46350. Online condolences may be shared at www.cutlercares.com.

"To know her was to be loved by her."