Mary Lou Sortino

1929 - 2024

Mary Lou Sortino, 95, of Yucca Valley, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Rancho Mirage.
Born on October 14, 1929, in Eaton, Colorado, to Enrique and Pauline Garcia, Mary lived a life marked by resilience, hard work, and unwavering love for her family.
Growing up in Eaton in a home near the Union Pacific Railroad, Mary experienced the simplicity and challenges of rural life. She recalled a childhood of close-knit family, a large barn, and the unique character of "Rag Town." Her early experiences instilled in her a strong work ethic, evident in her first jobs at Eaton Drug Store and Danley's Cafe where she worked as a "soda jerk" and dishwasher.
In 1947, Ms. Sortino married her high school sweetheart, Daniel Escamilla, and they began their family, welcoming Teresa (1948) and Felix (1950). In 1952, seeking new opportunities, she moved to California, where she began a long career in the restaurant industry as a server starting at The Home Cafe in Los Angeles. Her journey took her through various beloved establishments, including Nibblers, Canter's, Eddie's, and Dino's, culminating in a long tenure at The Riviera Hotel in Palm Springs.
Mary's life was also defined by her marriages. After her divorce from Daniel Escamilla, she found enduring love with Richard M. Roterdam, whom she married in 1961. They purchased their first home in West Covina, and expanded their family with Michael (1963) and Steven (1965).
They moved to Yucca Valley in 1972. Their marriage of over 25 years was filled with love, patience and understanding and she often referred to Rick as the love of her life. Following Rick's passing in 1987, she found love and companionship again, marrying Salvatore "Jimmy" Sortino in 1994, and sharing 22 years together.
A woman of remarkable independence and entrepreneurial spirit, Mary carried on the ownership and managing of Desert Fox Supplies after Rick's passing and established a successful home and office cleaning business. She was a dedicated member of St. Mary's Catholic Church for 52 years, finding strength and community in her faith.
Mary cherished her family above all else. She leaves behind her children: Richard "Mike" Roterdam Jr. (Melissa) and Steven A. Roterdam (Wendy); grandchildren: Edwin F. Kolitz Jr. (Marion, Julie), Richard A. Kolitz (Marie), Daniel R. Thomlinson (Hansi), Monica N. Gelinske (Joshua), and Richard "Michael" Roterdam III (Kari); great grandchildren; Heather P. Hartill (Trent), Kristopher J. Kolitz (Alice), Joseph D. Kolitz, Raeanna M. Kolitz, Nickolas A. Kolitz, Noah H. Tomlinson, Dreyden M. Roterdam, and Skyelin J. Roterdam; and great-great grandchildren: Wyatt J. Hartill, Hadley P. Hartill, Kira L. Kolitz, Echo C. Steele and Rowen A. Hutto.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Daniel Escamilla, Richard Roterdam, and Jimmy Sortino, her beloved children, Teresa Ann Tomlinson and Felix Escamilla, and her siblings, Louie, Henry, Felix, Jackie, Molly, Margie, Delia, Sally, Angie, and Beatrice.
Mary's passions included keeping an immaculately clean home and yard, gardening, dining out, traveling, swimming, dancing, playing Scrabble, and bowling. She found joy in hummingbirds, mariachi music, the beach and the company of family and friends. Her generous spirit, sense of humor, and unconditional love will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, at St. Mary of the Valley Catholic Community, 7495 Church Street, Yucca Valley, CA 92284. A Divine Mercy Prayer and Rosary will commence prior to the service at 10:15 a.m.