Mr Orzecki, who was also involved with the Maori Party, was a member of the New Zealand Maori Council, and was previously the chair of his iwi, Te Runanga o Raukawa, married his wife less than three weeks ago at Wehi Wehi Marae, Manakau.
They had planned to marry later in the year, but moved the date forward following Mr Orzecki's diagnosis.
Ms McKinnon said he was a "true leader" whose understanding of the health environment and community as well as good governance and people's health needs helped him debate "the most pressing issues".
"He deplored the disparities between Maori and non-Maori health and was constantly seeking ways to reduce the gap."
Fellow health board member Kate Joblin said Mr Orzecki was passionate about health boards working to improve Maori health outcomes.
"Richard was a loyal friend and colleague who could be relied upon to carefully listen to and consider other's views," she said. "He could equally stand his ground and respectfully disagree when he was passionate about issues."
Ms Joblin said she would remember him "very warmly", particularly for his discussion about how board members should engage with one another.
"Richard talked about the importance of 'mana-enhancing' conversation, and of not trampling on others' mana."
Maori Party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell said Mr Orzecki was a "loved friend, champion and trail-blazer".
"Richard was one of our foot soldiers from our earliest days," he said.
Mr Orzecki had recently been a "role model and mentor" focusing on a healthy lifestyle and working to inspire others through his own "personal transformation".
Mr Orzecki was determined to continue contributing to the health board when he was diagnosed.
He told the Chronicle in May that he had resigned from his position as hospital advisory committee chairman, but would carry on attending meetings while he had the energy.
His funeral service will be held at Wehi Wehi Marae tomorrow.