Obituaries

Dorothy Marie Sorge (née Frederick), age 92 years, passed away peacefully on Friday evening May 24, 2024. She was born April 26th, 1932, and was a lifelong Madison resident. She met Michael F. Sorge while both were living in the same apartment building in the early 1950s. They married in 1954, eventually having four children.

A lifelong learner, Dorothy always challenged herself. She obtained her pilot’s license in her late 40s and an Associate degree in her 50s. She volunteered for decades for the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), earning the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In 2003, she became a founding member of the St. Thomas Aquinas Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and was their treasurer for 16 years. Dorothy retired from CUNA Mutual after 33 years, working mostly as an underwriter. She was an avid gardener and had quite the green thumb for indoor and outdoor plants alike. She loved horses and the American Southwest, adored traveling, and enjoyed experiencing new things. Her zest for life was evident in everything she did. Her light will be greatly missed.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband Michael, her parents William and Regina Frederick, brother Bill Frederick, son Kevin, and infant son Michael David.

She is survived by her children Nancy Shimeall (Daniel), Kenneth Sorge, grandchildren William Georgeson, Anjee Sorge (Tim Spinler), Joseph Georgeson (Maxinne), Christopher Georgeson (Jennifer), Dustin Sorge (Deb Sas), Charles Shimeall (Elizabeth), great-grandchildren Mason Georgeson, Carson Georgeson, Xander Spinler, Milo Spinler, Kira Sorge, Hailey Shimeall, and Lily Shimeall. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to thank the medical staff of the 6th floor of Meriter Hospital and 2nd floor of Oakwood East for their devoted care of Dorothy in her final weeks.

There will be a visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 602 Everglade Dr., Madison 53717. All are invited to attend a luncheon following the service at the church. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dorothy’s name to St. Vincent de Paul through St. Thomas Aquinas Church or the charity of your choice. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

608-249-8257