Michael "Moe" Lee Orley

Sep 17, 1962 -

Jan 1, 2026

Michael Lee Orley, affectionately known as Moe, 63, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully after a brief illness in the early hours of Jan. 1, 2026, surrounded by family.

He was born on Sept. 17, 1962, to Joseph and Joan Orley of Lewistown, Mont., the youngest of six children. He grew up and attended school in Lewistown. After graduating from Fergus High in 1981, Moe went to work fighting fires for the Bureau of Land Management for the summer. In fall 1981, Moe attended Montana State University in Bozeman and later attended Eastern College in Billings, Mont., majoring in business. Moe moved to Anchorage in summer 1986, at the urging of his brothers Soren and Joe. He explored a variety of interests and was drawn to a career in sales for Capitol Glass. It was then that he met the love of his life, Heidi Ruby, whom he married on Aug. 22, 1992, and helped raise sons Brian and Brandon as his own.

Moe gave back to the community in serving as a volunteer with the Alaska Mountain Rescue Group.

Moe developed many woodworking and building skills learned from his grandpa Soren Hauge and used his tools and talents on multiple remodeling and landscaping projects. His building skills extended to the kitchen, where he and Heidi developed a passion for gourmet cooking, coming up with special seasoning combinations and various methods for smoking or cooking meals. It didn't take much to talk him into taking over the barbecue grill or oven at family gatherings. He enjoyed climbing, camping and fishing, and was always ready for a party.

Moe is survived by his wife, Heidi; sons, Brian Ruby (Tonya) and Brandon Ruby of Anchorage; grandchildren, Nixie, Jacob and Athena; brother, Randy Orley (Kam) of Lewistown; sister, Krista Wills (John) of Boise, Idaho; brothers, Soren Orley (Tara) and Joseph Orley of Anchorage; and many adoring nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Gregory Orley; maternal grandparents, Soren and Nellie Hauge; and parents, Joseph and Joan Orley, all of Lewistown.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a Celebration of Life in Anchorage on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at O'Malley's On the Green at 5 p.m. Please come by to help celebrate and share stories of Moe's adventures.

Moe will be remembered for his mustached smile, his big hugs and his enormous love for his family. His wife of 33 years and family, especially the grandchildren, were his passion.