Obituary of Dorothy V. Sortman

Dorothy Vogelin Sortman, of Binghamton, peacefully passed on during the evening of March 7, 2001. She is the daughter of Raymond King and Grace Adams Vogelin, and the sister of Robert Edward Vogelin, all of whom preceded her in death. Dot is survived by her loving daughter and son-in-law, Sally Lynn and Joseph Stilloe, and their two sons, Nathan and Phillip, of Binghamton; as well as her son, Dale Robert Sortman, his wife Winnie and daughter, Bethany, Greene, N.Y. Dot touched many hearts, of all ages, in her lifetime of 82 years. She was born in Binghamton on March 29, 1919, and graduated from Binghamton Central High School and Cortland Teachers College. For over 30 years, she taught kindergarten, at times teaching children of previous students, many of whom maintained contact with her throughout her life. Dot shared many special friendships with the "Bridge Club Girls", professional colleagues, Binghamton Garden Club, Monday Afternoon Club, Lyceum, and the First Congregational Church of Binghamton, to name a few. Of the many passions Dot had, nature and her family were the most important in her life. She enjoyed her summers at Echo Lake, vacationing with her family on Cape Cod, and winter respites in Florida. Dot's cheerful laughter, and thoughtful and gracious ways will be missed by all, but her love and lessons will be cherished forever. To the little girl whose last name (Vogelin) translated to "Little Bird", and who always dreamed of being that little bird - "Sing your evening song, let your wings be uplifted by our love, admiration and respect for you. Fly home to those who await you!" A celebration of Dot's life will be held at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, Friday, at 7 p.m. Rev. Neil A. McClelland, Interim Pastor, will officiate. The family will receive friends at the McCormack Funeral Home, Friday, from 6 to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Dot requested memorials in her name be made to American Parkinsons Disease Association, Southern Tier Chapter, P.O. Box 72, Binghamton, N.Y. 13903, or the Monday Afternoon Club Restoration Fund, 191 Court St., Binghamton, N.Y. 13901.