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Thomas Sorber Obituary
Thomas Ralph Sorber, 63, of Owego went home to be with the Lord early Thursday morning, while surrounded by his family, following a brave battle with brain cancer. He was predeceased by his father, Ralph R. Sorber, and is survived by his mother, Irene Sorber. He also leaves behind his best friend and loving wife of 41 years, Linda Sorber. He will be missed by his daughter Wendy and her husband Dan and their sons Corey and Dylan and also his daughter Emily and her daughter Collette. Tom also leaves behind his brother Brian, his wife Joanne and their children Holly and Adam, and brother Scott, his wife Jennifer, and their children Ben, Haley, Amy and Tommy. Saying sad goodbyes are also many cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many loyal friends. Tom was employed by IBM Endicott for 30 years, and at Lockheed Martin for eight years. He was an admired and respected musician who offered his talents through singing, songwriting, and keyboard in bands such as Jacobs Ladder, No Compromise, Rooster and the Roadhouse Horns, and the Terry Walker project, just to name a few. Tom loved the outdoors, especially being around water; whether at Lake Arrowhead in his red canoe, or on Cayuga Lake in his boat with his family. Tom will be missed for his warm, generous, and loving nature as well as his quick, sharp wit! Above all, his love and loyalty to family was unmatched and he leaves behind a most beautiful legacy. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday 11 a.m. from Owego Church of the Nazarene, 3732 Waverly Road, Owego, with Reverend Dennis King, Pastor of his church officiating. Burial will be in Vestal Hills Memorial Park Cemetery at the convenience of the family. The family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, Monday evening from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Dr. Harris and his staff at Broome Oncology, Dr. Haq and his staff at UHS Radiation Oncology, and Lourdes hospice for their tenderness. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lourdes Hospice, 4102 Old Vestal Road, Vestal, NY 13850.
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Sorber
Sponsored by The Florida WhiteHouse.
Bob Clifford
September 21, 2022
Rest in peace my friend....
Bob Clifford
September 21, 2021
Rest in peace my friend....
Scott, Michelle, Zachary, and Kazia Patzer
Scott Patzer
January 29, 2014
Dear Linda and family,
Tom was a blessing to me through my younger years. First under his direction in music at Binghamton AG, later traveling with him and Jacob's Ladder as a 'roadie', and then culminating with the honor of Tom playing in Michelle and my wedding.
We will miss him and look forward to seeing him again in heaven.
Steve "Chief" Smith
October 7, 2013
Dear Sorber Family,
I knew Tom from working with him at LM. I was honored to be mentored and trained by him... I will always remember his calm and caring ways. My wife and I had the pleasure of listening to his music at Traditions. Tom will be missed but will live on with some many he touched. May god bless your family Tom, you made an impact on so many lives. Your Friend, Chief.
Jack Wainwright
October 6, 2013
I worked with Tom many years ago and he was a real gentleman with a great attitude. I was so sorry to hear of his passing.
June Carter
October 6, 2013
Tom's Family, What a blessing Tom was--touching so many lives in a special way! It will be a great reunion in Heaven one day! Praying for God's tender care for you at this sad time.
Dyke & Karyn Surine
October 4, 2013
Dearest Linda, and family;
Having shared in the legacy of such a wonderful loved one - we are sadly sending prayers and warmest thoughts. We think back to the many years in the 70's and 80's - all the concerts we did together- " The Upper Room" -
In His Love;
Dyke & Karyn Surine ( Sonshine )
Vikki Vallone
October 3, 2013
God bless all the Sorber Family. We have shared the Lord for so many years.
Bonnie (Douglass) and Bob Moyer
October 2, 2013
Brian and family ... Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. May your memories comfort you, know that Tom can rest in peace now. He sure left a good mark on so many people.
October 1, 2013
Dear Sorber Family,
When we think of Tom, we remember his bright smile and uplifting demeanor. He was always enjoyable to work with in ministries at First Assembly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Margie Whistle
Lewisville, Texas
Shirley Bender
October 1, 2013
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and until we meet again may our God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Clare Krick Finkler
October 1, 2013
Dear Brian and Sorber family, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Tommy. I will always remember the fun times we had ice skating at the IBM County Club. Also, following Jacob's Ladder to the many venues to dance to the band as teenagers. My sincere thoughts are with all of you.
Eric Hall
September 30, 2013
Tom was a gentleman and reflected his Lord as he entertained and ministered to this young fan of Jacob's Ladder. His boldness was an example to me as I stepped out to sing and share the gospel. I know Tom has "entered his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name." Enjoy heaven!
September 30, 2013
To the Sorber family. My sincerest condolences in the passing of Tommy. I knew Tom and Brian back in their days of co-leading "The Shadows" and then the follow on groups, "Flesh & Blood", "Jacobs Ladder", "Powder House Road" and several others. We both worked/hung out at Thompson Music on Washington Avenue in Endicott. I serviced music equipment and Tommy & Brian taught and helped newbies into the music business. I can still remember going to "The Establishment" one night where "Flesh and Blood" was playing and Tommy saw me come in and approached in a panic. The Hammond B3 he used wouldn't make a sound. Serviced it on the stage (bad
tube which I had in my service box in the car) and the first set started. Woo-hoo. Tommy and the band played absolute great. Good memories.
Tommy was always a great husband, devoted father, family man and a first class talented musician. Rest in peace Tommy and teach the angels how to make music. Until the next time my friend.
Wayne Utter, Endicott,NY
Dick Reitz
September 30, 2013
To Tom's Family: I worked with Tom for several year at Lockheed and was shocked to hear this sad news. Tom was one of a kind and the most pleasant to work with, always making us feel good when asking for his assistance. In my last correspondance while he was here, this was a typical Tom response: "Anything for you buddy! Pal Tom". He will be greatly missed.
Tom in 1968, Vestal High School
Peggy Fleming
September 30, 2013
To the Sorber Family,
I have fond memories of Tom from high school and enjoyed seeing him and hearing him perform at the 30th class reunion. We shared the distinction of being class musicians (see photo from school newspaper). Please accept my condolences and prayers.
John Troy
September 30, 2013
Linda et al,
Tommy was a colleague and true friend to myself, Heather, and my family.
Our condolences go out to the entire family as he will be dearly missed.
Becky Goodrich
September 30, 2013
To the Sorber Family: I had the pleasure of working with Tom. I was saddened to hear of his passing. He will be missed.
Brian Desko
September 30, 2013
Dear Brian and Sorber family, I was saddened to hear the news of Toms passing. It seems like only yesterday that I met you and Tom in Jacobs Ladder at Johnsoncity CMA. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Thanks for the memories and RIP Tom.
Garey and Bari (Block) Roden
September 30, 2013
Brian and Family, In your sad moments ahead may your hearts be quickly flooded with joyous memories for we know this is a time we celebrate a life well lived. May you be lifted up in loving comfort remembering all the people Tom led to everlasting faith. Love and prayers to your family,
September 29, 2013
My sincerest condolences to the Tom's family and friends on his passing. I had the pleasure of working with-, and getting to know Tom during my 2 1/2 years at Lockheed Martin. Funny person, and a pleasure to be around. Tom also gave me some tips when I spoke with him about learning guitar. Thank you Tom, and may you rest in peace my friend.
Jeff Fingar
Endicott, NY
Ken Kane
September 29, 2013
To the Sorber family: I had the pleasure of playing with Tommy as a member of the Hangmen. He was a very talented individual. He will be missed.
Mary Policare Berube
September 29, 2013
Linda and Family, there are no words on how sad the lost of such a wonderful man not only to his family but to his many many friends. We can all hold in our hearts the happy memories of Tom up on that stage as we danced away to his music. Now heaven gets to hear him play like an angel. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Andy Rando
September 29, 2013
I met Tom in high school. We played in the "stage band" together, and played a few gigs together around town. I'll always remember his talent, his wit, his positive attitude but above all....what a fine gentleman he was. May Tom rest in peace, and be surrounded by music.
- Andy Rando
Joe and Tami D'Abbracci
September 29, 2013
Brian and family. I am so sorry to hear this news. Tami and I will keep Tom and your family in our prayers
Bob and Gail Clifford
September 29, 2013
Dear Brian and Sorber family please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Tom. We started our careers in IBM together and I recall Tom's great and witty sense of humor along with his calmness and outgoing personality.
Peace be with you and your family during this difficult time.
Corey and Dylan Grandsons
September 28, 2013
We love you grandpa!!
Pat Dunning
September 28, 2013
Linda and family, So sorry to hear of the loss of Tom. So many memories of him. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Pat Dunning
September 28, 2013
Linda, very sorry to hear this news. May God give you the comfort you need at this time.
Dave & Pat Halligan
Lee Schechter
September 28, 2013
Very sorry to hear the news. I worked with Tom for many years and was glad to have known him.
Joel Smales
September 28, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Tom's music, gentle spirit, love for his family, and humor made him a very special person. God bless you during this difficult time.
September 28, 2013
To the Sorber Families: We grieve with you. Tom poured his best into everything he did and I know he leaves a vacuum. May God comfort you. Roy and Bonnie Andersen, Mechanicsville, Va.
Pat Jebbett
September 28, 2013
To Linda, Wendy, Emily and all of the Sorber family, my deepest sympathies to all of you. I really enjoyed knowing Tom. He will always be fondly remembered by everyone he knew.
Judy Valek
September 28, 2013
To Linda and all the Sorbers, the world has lost a very special person. So very sorry.
Jo-Anne Ayres
September 28, 2013
We worked with Tom for many years and always enjoyed his great sense of humor. He loved talking about music. Our deepest sympathy at this difficult time.
Jo-Anne & Pete Ayres
LaVaun Tanzini
September 28, 2013
I grew up with Tommy on Oakdale Road, his parents, Ralph and Irene, best friends with my parents, Bob and Wilma Clifford. He was like a brother, pranking on me and my sisters, things of childhood you never forget. I confess I had a big crush on him as a little girl, and later in life when I saw him, all grown up, that special "love" was still there. He always had those twinkling eyes that made you feel special, a good hug, and a big, true smile that made you know he was glad to see you. Tommy had an enormous heart for everyone. He never forgot our family, and when we asked him to help fulfull our Dad's last wishes, Tommy was there. My dad wanted "Oh when the Saints go marchin' in" played at his funeral. My dad passed away during the time of the terrible flood in the summer of 1996. It was chaos all over. But Tommy was there for us. He was there at at funeral home, and at the church, playing for my Dad, and for us. I don't know how we could ever have granted my Dad's last wishes without Tommy - we couldn't have. How do you say thank you for that? God Bless all of you who loved him, and will miss him. Linda, Irene, Brian, Scotty and loved ones, you know how special he was to you. Please know what a special spirit he was to others as well - always kind, giving and joyful. Peace to you. Tommy is with Our Lord, whom he served well in his life here on earth. Love to you all.
J.Lynn Edwards
September 27, 2013
Sorry to hear of Toms passing, I guess I was hoping for the best. The true measure of a mans worth is who he leaves behind, His benefit was the statement of this it was a wonderful day filled with memories and a great time I will miss the man & his music.
Georgiana (Williamson) Brown
September 27, 2013
Linda and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tom touched many lives and will live on in sweet memories. May the Lord comfort each of you as you walk through this sad time.
September 27, 2013
Tom played at our wedding 35 yrs ago at Binghamton Assembly. May the Lord comfort you all in this time of sorrow.
Morgan and Judie Dendler
Scott Piedmonte
September 27, 2013
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was certainly a great and very talented guy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you the family at this very difficult time.
daisy hawley
September 27, 2013
Linda i am so sorry to hear of toms passing. It was of great pleasure to have met him. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God bless you now and always.
September 27, 2013
Brian and Jo, Scott and Jen, and Irene, Losing Tom, is such a bittersweet time, You've lost a dear loved one, but know he is safe in the arms of The Lord. He blessed many lives. Sal and Dan Needham
John & Bobbie Fuller
September 27, 2013
Though we had drifted apart after No Compromise, I know that one day we will again make music together and the sorrows of this life will be no more. Our hearts and prayers go out to your family in this time of loss. May they always remember the joy and love you brought to their lives and the lives of everyone you touched. Sing with the angels Tom! Johnnie & Bobbie Fuller
Barbara Vartanian
September 27, 2013
So sorry for your loss. I will always remember the joy on his face when he was playing keyboards with the Terry Walker Project at Thirsty's, or at the Beef with Terry, or wherever else he played. A wonderful kind man who will be missed.
September 27, 2013
May the Lord greet you with open arms like you did on earth. Chuck Seager
Doug Brucher
September 27, 2013
To the Sorber Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.
My memories of Tom go all the way back to the early Shadows days.
He always had a great smile, infectious laugh, a positive attitude, and so much talent.
He will be missed by so many ..... just know he's in a better place now.
Christine (Quackenbush) Olson
September 27, 2013
I am so sorry, Linda. You are in my thoughts at this sad time.
Mark & Elaine Zizzi
September 27, 2013
Dear Sorber Family, Heartfelt condolences to you all. We are so blessed with the memories Tom shared with us. I bet Rico has already greeted you and said "Fine job, boy....fine job".
September 27, 2013
Dear Linda and family ~
I am so sorry. Tom was such a wonderful person and I am grateful to have met him. Please know that I will continue to keep you all in my prayers during this difficult time. Love, Jaynee
Steve Terry
September 27, 2013
So sorry for your loss. Great friend. Great times out with Jacobs Ladder. God Bless you all!!
lauren shafer
September 27, 2013
such a great person ,so sorry for your loss.
Laura Ricci
September 27, 2013
Sorber family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your father, and uncle. May he rest in the Lord's loving arms. Laura Ricci, Hope Chapel, Sterling, MA
Dick Evans
September 27, 2013
I worked with Tom and Brian at IBM circa 1975. I remember him as a man of great good humor and quick wit. His passing is a loss to the world.
Cubies Forever!
September 27, 2013
May you be surrounded by Lilies of the Valley while playing music at the Tiki Bar! Godspeed, Tommy Fi.
September 27, 2013
I will miss Tommy's great laugh and quick humor. Our family lost a wonderful guy.
Love Kathy Jo, George, Nate, Hannah, Ben and Grace
Mark Robinson
September 27, 2013
I had the honor of making music with Tom, and from that, becoming his friend. He was absolutely the best musician I've ever played with. He was also a role model to me as a man. Godspeed, my friend. I wish to offer my condolences to his family and all his friends.
Peter Clancy
September 27, 2013
Emily,
very sorry for the loss of your Dad.
Peter Clancy - The Buffalo News
Mindy Griffith
September 27, 2013
Sorber Family, my heart sank today as I scrolled through facebook and this appeared. Tommy was a wonderful man. So sorry for your loss. Love, Tony and Mindy Griffith
Alex and Freddy Mendoza
September 27, 2013
Linda and family,
We can't seem to find the words to express our deepest sorrow at the loss of someone so special. Tommy touched our hearts in so many ways from his incredible musical talents to his quick wit, his big heart and support during the best and happiest times of our lives to some of the most difficult. We will miss our dear, dear friend. Deepest sympathies to you and your entire family.
Lee Ryan
September 27, 2013
Sorber Family,
I am very saddend to hear of your loss. He was a great man and helped to raise two incredible daughters. Wish I had gotten the chance to know him better.
My thoughts are with you all.
Grace Policare-Torrey
September 27, 2013
Linda, Brian and families,
It's heart breaking to hear of Toms passing. I know there have been some tough times. He is at peace now.
September 27, 2013
?Wishing you all peace, comfort and courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Wendy Chaffee (Keller)
Debby Telfer
September 27, 2013
Tom was a wonderful, gentle soul who touched everyone with his warm spirit. I had the honor of working with him at IBM. He will be missed.
Debi Zeggert
September 27, 2013
I will never forget all the incredible times our group had while working together. Sadness on the world today for your passing. Please rest my friend!
September 27, 2013
To the entire Sorber family...our hearts go out to each and everyone of you during this time of sadness and lost. Tom was special, not only within the core family, but to all of the extended family he touched throughout his life. We were all enriched by his talent, generosity and love that he shared with all of us. Tom's spirit will remain with us as we remain on this earth and the memories of him will lighten the heavy hearts we all share today. May God Bless you Tom and your remarkable family as you take your reserved seat in heaven. You will be missed but never forgotten. Rest has been earned my friend...we love you.
The Florida White's
Donny Wilkins
September 27, 2013
Tom was one of the best musicians around and a good man. He will be missed.
Terry Walker
September 27, 2013
To the Sorber family, Words canot express my sadness in the passing of my big brother Tom. Tom, I know you are free from your earthly bonds. You are undoubtably arranging in Gods big band now. I will so miss your inspiration and wit at every gig. See you in a while.
Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
Love,
Megan Woolsey (Beddoe)
September 27, 2013
Was very sorry to hear of your passing! I have fond memories of the music you shared with so many! You were loved and will be greatly missed by your family and community!
September 27, 2013
To the Sorber Family: We have such fond loving memories of Tom....what a guy!! One memory is of him playing piano at our wedding 33 yrs ago...what a special spirit he brought to any venue. Our hearts are saddened by your loss. Hugs and prayers for peace....Larry and Debbie Thrasher
Daugher Wendy
September 27, 2013
I miss you so much, Daddy... puffy kisses and big tight hugs ~ Wendy
Ron Tierno
September 27, 2013
You had a great effect on my life. Rest in peace, Tom!
David & Debbie Payne
September 27, 2013
We just heard of the sad news. Several years ago we were blessed to sing in the group Tom put together called Rainbow. We cherished our time with him. We loved his laughter, his incredible skill to play piano, and his love for God. We have many fond memories of that time. Heaven is a sweeter place because he is there. Much love.
September 26, 2013
Scott, Jen, and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark and Liz Goodwin
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