Obituary
Dominic Lee Orsatti passed away peacefully October 31, 2023, at the Kansas City VA Medical Center at the age of 92.
Dominic was born September 7, 1931, in Los Angeles, CA to Fred and Lucille Arzate. Dominic was a highly decorated United States Marine who served with bravery and conviction during the Korean War. He was in four of the five major campaigns including the Chosin Reservoir. He was one of the last living Chosin Few. While serving in the Marines, Dominic was a drill instructor and an incredible marksman.
Dominic was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Lucille Arzate, brothers Fred Arzate and Gilbert Arzate, and step grandson Nathan John Brinkle II.
Survivors include his wife M. Kolette Orsatti, sister Linda Van Winkle, children Donna Morrissette, Victor Orsatti, John Orsatti, Peter Orsatti, stepchildren Nikolette Iles, Nathan Brinkle, Natasha Brinkle, Nerissa Cupini, and Nicholas Brinkle, eight grandchildren, six step grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
There will be a private military service with honors at a National Cemetery in California held for the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Dominic Lee Orsatti to the Disabled American Veterans.
Arrangements by Langsford Funeral Home, 115 SW 3rd Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Uncle Dominic had another side to him: a keen entrepreneurial mindset. He was a lifelong seeker of knowledge, always curious, creative, and a critical thinker. He was constantly conjuring up his next big business opportunity. Throughout his career, he achieved numerous successes. He encouraged us to think big and dream big. I still remember as a kid, him driving up to our neighborhood in his sleek black Rolls-Royce with its luxurious red leather interior. We all piled into the back seat, and the neighborhood kids were in awe. He then drove us to Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurant, because he knew it was our favorite.
In another story, he knew how much I cherished my grandmother, Lucille Arzate. He went out of his way to buy her a lovely serpentine 18k solid gold chain necklace while in Tahiti. When she passed away, he drove all the way to Texas to bring it back to me. He understood that it was something my grandmother would have wanted me to have.
I will definitely miss his thought-provoking and entertaining emails. The last email he sent me was so touching that it brought tears to my eyes. He expressed how proud he was of me, and it meant the world to me.
I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to my cousins Vic, Peter, and Jon, as well as to Uncle Dominic’s family and my mother Linda, who was his favorite and only sister. Deeply sorry for the pain you are going through, and please know that I am thinking of all of you. Sending healing prayers and aloha from Hawaii.
Dominic was a great man, he was a good friend and we visited often. I feel it’s an honor to have spent time with him over the years. He was proud to be a Marine. We talked about his experience during his service to this great country. The Chosin Reservoir was his main thing that he spoke about. It was a horrible experience for him and felt like he was saved to accomplish more in his life, he often said “I guess God had bigger plans for me”. He was very accomplished in everything he did in life. He sent me a copy of his life’s accomplishments and the list is very long.
While he suffered with his illness his lovely wife took care of him with unconditional love and support.
They were a lovely couple and their love for one another was an example to all that knew them.
I will miss him and he will always be remembered by me.
So long for now until we meet again.
Respectfully
Alan Olsen
Jeff & Mike offer their deepest condolences.
There are no words for the legacy Dominic has left on our family. He will live in our hearts forever.
If there is anything we can do please ask.
Dear Victor, Jon and Peter: I was so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I remember him with fondness for all the years we were friends. And Peter, my old tennis champion partner… So many years ago. I was glad he and Kolette were together for so many years. I know he was so proud of you all. He was a pistol, eh? Let us all remember the good memories.
Rest in Peace Dominic. You always gave me strength and courage to live my dreams. Thank you for teaching me about life. Your dedication to our country in serving in the Korean War will always be remembered by all. Unfortunately you fell ill to that war. I feel honored to be in your presence in the last days of your life. I will miss you dearly. Go in peace. It’s ok to let go now. Much love. Your step daughter, Natasha