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Yorktown High School Columbia University

NICOLE ORTTUNG Obituary

ORTTUNG NICOLE ORTTUNG 1995 ~ 2016 Nicole Katherine Orttung departed on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, in Washington, DC. She leaves behind a circle of family and friends who dearly love her and will always be grateful for the sunshine she brought to their lives. Among those forever grateful for the time they had with Nicole are her parents, Robert and Susan Orttung, and her brother Joseph. Nicole was born in Prague, Czech Republic, but moved with her family to Brooklyn, NY when she was a toddler and then to Arlington, VA when she was in third grade. After graduating from Yorktown High School, she entered the dual BA program of Sciences Po and Columbia University. She spent her first two years of college in Reims, France, where she focused on Euro-American stud- ies. During her time in Europe, she enjoyed the opportunity to travel extensively with her friends. At Columbia, Nicole studied political science. She also wrote stories for the student newspaper about the life of the city surrounding the campus. He favorite topics included renters' rights, the state of the nearby schools (where she volunteered), and gentrification. Nicole worked to promote social justice. During the summer of 2012, she volunteered with the Obama campaign, engaging in door-to-door canvassing, phone banking, and other campaign activities. During the summer after her sophomore year, she interned at the Wilson Center, contributing articles to the on-line edition of the Wilson Quarterly. After her junior year, she was an intern at the Christian Science Monitor, where she published nearly 100 articles. What she liked most about the process of journalism was interviewing people and learning more about the world. Until the last few months, Nicole was energetic in using all of her time for good purpose and disciplined in focusing on what she wanted to achieve. Her ambition and activity were an inspiration, and they seemed to bubble up from a deep well of enthusiasm for life. May Nicole now be at peace and may all her family and friends find peace as well. Donations may be made in her honor to the Wilson Center in Washington, DC (wilsoncenter.org). A memorial service is being planned for late December.May Nicole now be at peace and may all her family and friends find peace as well. Donations may be made in her honor to the Wilson Center in Washington, DC (wilsoncenter.org). A memorial service is being planned for late December.

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Published by The Washington Post on Nov. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for NICOLE ORTTUNG

Sponsored by anonymous.

58 Entries

Andrea Manfredi

November 22, 2020

I am very sad that I heard about this tragic event only today... I had the chance to meet Nicole in Reims only for few months, but I remember her as a kind and generous person. My deepest condolences to her family.

Theresa & Annie

November 16, 2019

Dear Nicole. We love and miss you, Honey. May you rejoice as you live and love in the presence of the Lord.

Jakob Brounstein

December 3, 2018

Nicole was one of my first friends at Sciences Po. I will always treasure the great experiences we shared in Reims and in New York. It's been two years since Nicole's passing, and I still think about her quite often, about how loved she was by all of her friends, about how much light she brought to our lives.

I express my condolences to all those who had the pleasure of knowing Nicole, and I urge us all to carry her memory with us---forward---into the future.

Nj Chapman

November 24, 2017

I did not know Nicole but feel her spirit after reading your tribute poem from Wednesday. May her spirit live on and somehow rise from your ongoing grief.

Bob Craddock

February 16, 2017

Abby Hillman

February 15, 2017

So many lovely thoughts of Nicole's sweet smile, cheerful demeanor, and spiritual thought. That's where I'll always see her. Much love to you, Susan, Bob, and Joseph.
-Abby Hillman

Corinne Fertein

December 12, 2016

I had the real pleasure to teach Nicole in Reims when she was in 2nd year. She was such a good dedicated student always smiling even at 8:00 am! I will always cherish these memories and the good times we had in French with Minnie, Allie and Jennie! My thoughts are with you.

Peter Morris

December 10, 2016

Nicole and I were in the same class at Yorktown. We had a couple a classes together and conversed from time to time, though wish I had gotten to know her better. A tremendous loss. My condolences to Joseph (we knew each other from track and x-country) and Mr. nad Mrs. Orttung.

Tamie Kanata

December 6, 2016

Dear Nicole, We love you very, very much. The Light you reflect will continue shining very brightly in our hearts. You are so loved, appreciated and valued by us all. Your care for the humanity, for the world, was tangibly felt. Your love of Good, Life continues shining so bright. Timelessly. Hugs-

Ms. Stuart

December 6, 2016

My heart breaks for your terrible loss. I was fortunate enough to have gotten to know this beautiful, lovely, accomplished young lady while chaperoning her high school music trip to Chicago. She is one of the sweetest young persons I have ever met. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult.

Caron Ward

December 4, 2016

To Bob, Susan, and Joseph
Words cannot express the depth of sadness felt upon hearing of the loss of your beautiful daughter Nicole. While I only glimpsed her beauty and saw her smile as her neighbor, it is obvious that her light shone on so many. I hold you all in my thoughts and prayers, knowing that you are surrounded by love and hoping you find comfort in knowing she is always with you.
Peace

December 3, 2016

I wish to express my condolences to the family. May the God of Comfort be with you at this most difficult time.

Nicole on a Boat in St. Petersburg, Russia

Yvonne Psaila

December 2, 2016

Though I didn't get to see Nicole much in recent years, I fondly remember the outings enjoyed with her, brother Jo-Jo and parents Susan and Bob in New York City from 1996 to 2002, plus the wonderful week I shared with them during their stint in Russia the summer of 2002. From early childhood, Nicole was an especially sweet soul who touched many with her radiant warmth and joy. Since then, I got a glimpse from annual holiday cards and her parents' accounts of what a beautiful, accomplished and altruistic young woman she had become she truly packed more into her short life than many do with four times more years. Rest in peace, dear Nicole. And may her family and friends find peace as well until you are reunited. "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face." St. Paul to the Corinthians, 13:12

Heidi Flicker

December 2, 2016

We were blessed to have known dear, sweet Nicole since the early days in Brooklyn. She was a kind, gentle friend to us and an important part of our many cherished memories. Forever she will hold a special place in our hearts. Please accept our deepest sympathy and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Have faith, for God will send the angels that you need.

Hillary Clinton campaign, November 2016

Christine Potochny

December 1, 2016

I met Nicole only a few weeks ago, working together in a group of four fantastic women on the Hillary Clinton campaign. These were exhausting, yet fun and hopeful days. Nicole was a sweet soul. I am utterly saddened by this news and extend my heartfelt condolences to her family.

Giselle Paine

December 1, 2016

I was so lucky to have met Nicole in Reims, where her quiet but determined kindness truly touched the hearts of many. Her sparkling laugh and gentle touch will be missed all around the world. May she rest in peace.

Anna Hom

November 30, 2016

We were privileged to have known you since you were in Kindergarten--the time that you and Samantha became classmates for three years and very close childhood friends. Though you left Brooklyn and moved to Arlington, our families remained friends and a part of one another's lives and for that we are grateful. Nicole, your intelligence was evident in the things you had to say, but also know that your kindness, love and joy were evident in how you treated others and carried yourself. Know that you are loved and may you be at peace. There are no words to express how much you will be missed.

Lizzy

November 30, 2016

I worked with Nicole during her time at the Wilson Center in DC, and will always remember her infectious smile, her warm energy, and her brilliantly insightful mind. She was a truly genuine and thoughtful person, always helping out and cheering up those around her. Such a heartbreaking loss, rest in peace Nicole.

November 30, 2016

Nicole touched everyone in a positive and beautiful way. Our deepest sympathy, the Meyer Family: Leslie, MinnieTom, Lee, & Asa

Alexia Pierre

November 30, 2016

Dear Nicole,
My heart is not at peace ever since I have heard the news. Even though it was for a short period of time, I am thankful to have met you and will eternally cherish our shared moments spent on writing the DLS website posts. It may not have been much. But it was enough for me to realize what a funny and lovely partner you were and what a golden person you will remain. Keep this eternal smile on your face. I will never forget you.
My sincerest condolences to all your relatives and family.
Love.

Megan Beretta

November 30, 2016

Nicole welcomed me to France with a smile and joy that cannot be forgotten. Her dedication to service, friendship, and making her community a better place has clearly had a lasting impact on those who were lucky to know her. Sending best wishes to the ScPo community, and much love to her family.

D'Arlene and Kevin Beard

November 30, 2016

Dear Nicole, you are cherished and loved. We hold you in our hearts, and embrace your family here on Earth. Your joyful light and energy continue to bless all who knew you. May you rest in God's perfect peace.

Irina

November 30, 2016

Nicole was my mentor in the Dual BA program. She was the greatest mentor I could have ever asked for. Over the summer, I asked her a gazillion questions about the transition from France to Columbia. She patiently responded to every single question and lots of advice. We talked a few times at the beginning of this semester in person when she reassured me that the transition was not easy. She let me know it's okay to admit it. All of her advice will be cherished greatly.

Dolores Cviticanin

November 30, 2016

Sincerest condolonces to Nicole's family and friends. I remember Nicole from the work we did together in UNICEF in Reims. Nicole was a dedicated member of the team and was personally willing to help me out kindly when I needed it. Very sad to hear of this very unfortunate loss. Love from Vancouver, Canada.

Justice

November 30, 2016

Nicole,

We first met when I was an overexcited 1A in Reims that ran over to you and Minnie in Carrefour after I heard people speaking English. After I introduced myself you guys both gave me a super warm and friendly welcome that I will never forget. Thank you for your smile, positivity, advice and for not brushing off the stranger that approached you in the grocery store that day. You will be deeply missed by all that had the honour to know you and experience the light that you shared everyday.

Marie

November 30, 2016

Nicole was a ray of sunshine in the rainy skies of Reims. You'll be missed.

Xavier

November 30, 2016

A beautiful soul. We will miss you greatly Nicole. My deepest sympathies to the family

Rachele Miscioscia

November 30, 2016

I will always cherish your wonderful smile and unique laughter in my heart!

French 0 Noel group in Reims. We were so happy.

Valeriya

November 30, 2016

Learning the news about this terrible loss during my French C1 class now in Paris, in disbelief, I reflect on the time I met Nicole at my first ever French 0 class in Reims. I remember wondering how can a person be always so completely happy, even on rainy, cold, grey French mornings. Nicole's sincere smile brightened up our 8am classes. Her most infectious laugh will resonate forever in my heart. No, we weren't close. But the beams of this sunny girl lightened up lives of many people even from afar, including me. Now, I am still studying French, and you, beautiful Nicole.. I am sure you are an angel now, continuing to make the world a better place. Such a short, but full of meaning life. Rest in peace, my friend.

Having met at the French 0 class, Nicole was always a girl whose infectious laugh brightened up 8 am classes. How happy we were to go on Noel break!

Valeriya

November 30, 2016

Enrique Olivo

November 30, 2016

You are a beautiful person, Nicole. Your voice had a melody to it that I will always remember for being able to make the hardest heart feel warm. You were so kind and so helpful to me and those we worked with back in France. I will miss you. My deepest condolences to your family and friends. The light you brought to the world was no small thing - no small thing at all - and I pray your loved ones find comfort in remembering this light that I am sure you brought to many.

Patrick

November 29, 2016

We'll always have Reims. And Barça. This makes my heart hurt.

A fellow Columbian

November 29, 2016

Celebrating a life well lived. Rest in peace, Nicole Orttung.

November 29, 2016

I am so saddened by the news of Nicole's passing. My deepest prayers and sympathies are with your family.

Alice Wright

November 29, 2016

Nicole was a joy to be around. I did not have the pleasure of knowing her very much, but in the moments I spent in her presence, she was always cheerful and good.

Liz Fuller-Wright

November 29, 2016

I'm so sorry for your loss! She was a gifted and effervescent person and will be missed.

Evan Glasier

November 29, 2016

Nicole was a wonderful young woman. I had the pleasure to teach her in high school and she was one of the smartest, kindest students I have ever met. She will truly be missed.

Randy Glasner

November 29, 2016

Nicole was a wonderful clarinet student of mine for eight years. She always allowed her sensitivity as a musician to shine when she played. My deepest thoughts are with her family.

Hope Harrison

November 29, 2016

I am so deeply sorry about this grievous loss. My heart goes out to your whole family.

C E

November 29, 2016

To friends and family members especially her parents and siblings; my condolences for your loss may God be with you for strength and comfort to cope. He is near and will help. Isa 41:13 "Do not be afraid". He promise to be with us. Take care

Jack & Rita Stroud

November 29, 2016

Our sincere sympathy and condolences to her family. May she RIP
Love Jack & Rita

Fiona Hill

November 29, 2016

I am so sorry to hear the news of the loss of your beautiful daughter. You are in my heart, thoughts, and prayers in this time of sorrow. With deep sympathy and much love.

Liza W

November 28, 2016

I did not know Nicole personally but I am a fellow GS student and just want to express my condolences to her family. Please know that we in the Columbia community, even those of us who didn't have the chance to know Nicole, are pausing to think of her and of you.

Janet Lacey

November 28, 2016

Dear Susan, Bob, and Joseph,
I am profoundly saddened to learn of Nicole's passing. I don't think I ever saw Nicole when she wasn't smiling. Nicole exuded warmth and goodness--a truly beautiful person, and accomplished beyond her years. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all who loved Nicole.

Louise Shelley

November 28, 2016

I am so sorry to learn of Nicole's loss. She was always such a remarkable young woman.

Lawino Lurum

November 28, 2016

It was an honor to meet you, Nicole. Really saddened by the news and loss. You will be dearly missed here at GS Columbia. My Sincere condolences to family and loved ones. May you find comfort in the love and memories shared.

November 28, 2016

I am so sorry over the loss of your loved one. Please be assured that at difficult times such as these "God has heard your tears". (2Kings 20:5) He will give you the strength you need to endure this difficult time.

Alice Wunderlich

November 28, 2016

Nicole was always so kind and sweet. She was a joy to have around and so good with the children at the dance studio. Deepest condolences.

Alice Silver

November 28, 2016

Thinking of my time spent with Nicole during the Summers at camp. Her kindness and love made a great counselor to many kids at camp. Praying for her family.

Theresa Ferraioli

November 28, 2016

Our dear Nicole, we are deeply saddened that you left this life so soon. We've known you since you came to Brooklyn so many years ago. We will cherish the memories of our Thanksgivings together, the Easter Egg hunts at the Tan's home, play dates at each other's homes and going to the park together. You have been a beautiful bright star in our world. We will miss you dearly. God bless you. We love you, Honey.

Lisa Garner

November 27, 2016

A beautiful tribute to a beautiful woman who will always be missed.

Lynn Leavitt

November 27, 2016

Nicole was a student in my third grade class many years ago. She was a very dedicated student who showed kindness to her classmates and everyone around her. Her smile warmed up a room, and she was very well liked. I am so sorry to have received the news of her passing. My prayers are with her family and friends. She was a creative and lovely person in every way.

November 27, 2016

All of us at Yorktown send our heartfelt condolences and remember all she contributed to our school community.

Raymond Pasi