Clinton Orlemann

Clinton “Clint” Orlemann, respected and celebrated Cincinnati artist and illustrator, passed away August 31, 2016 at the age of 91. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 26, 1925, youngest son of the late George and Lizetta (née Hyde). In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death by his sister Henrietta and his five brothers Jerome, George, Clyde, Arthur and Edward.

After graduating from Western Hills High School, Clint answered the call of duty during World War II. He served 2½ years in the Pacific Theatre with the Army’s 81st Division as a Combat Engineer, receiving a Purple Heart. Upon his return to Ohio he attended both the Cincinnati Art Academy and the Central Academy of Art on the GI Bill. After working for C.H. Schaten Studios, he and several coworkers purchased the company in 1959 renaming it Studio Arts Associates, which later became Cato Johnson. In the mid 1970s Clint started his own successful commercial art studio Omnigraphics.

His accomplishments as an artist were many and include his iconic limited-edition sports lithograph series celebrating great moments in Cincinnati Red’s history (including “The Home Run”, “Rose to the Occasion” and “The World Champions.”) His weekly sketches of local landmarks were a staple of the Cincinnati Enquirer’s Sunday edition, capturing the architectural beauty of the hometown he loved. These drawings were later published in his 1986 book “Cincinnati Paintings and Sketches”. He also designed several commemorative postcards for the US Postal Service’s Historic Preservation Series, including one that featured Cincinnati Music Hall. Clint leaves behind a rich legacy of vibrant artwork that permanently captured the spirit of the Queen City.

Driven by a livelong interest in architecture, Clint designed and built five unique homes around the Tri-State area for his growing family. Starting with a modest 1-story on the west side to a mid-century modern jewel in Finneytown (featured in Better Homes and Gardens) all the way to a stunning Cape Cod overlooking the Ohio River. He never limited himself to a single style, a philosophy that defined both his construction projects and his art.

Clint was married to his childhood sweetheart Mary (née Reidel) for 72 years until his death. Together they raised 5 children: Duane, Polly, Eric, Linnett and Bethany. He was a proud grandfather to Taryn and Caitlin and a great-grandfather to four.

The world has lost a gentle soul, a kind and creative man, devoted husband and loving father.

A private service for the immediate family was held at TP White & Sons Funeral Home.