Harold Van Orman was one of the two original owners of the Fort Wayne Komets. He and Ernie Berg secured a franchise in the International Hockey League and introduced Komet Hockey to Fort Wayne with the dropping of the first puck at the start of the 1952-53 season.

In addition to owning several hotels around the Fort Wayne area, Van Orman continued with the Komet partnership until he was bought out by Ramon Perry, Ken Ullyot and Colin Lister in the late 60’s, enjoying much success including 2 Turner Cup Championships in 1963 and 1965.