Charles E. Zortman

Charles E. Zortman, 90, of Summit, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025. Known to many as "Charlie," he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbor, and friend.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, Charlie was the only child of Sophia (née Bukofski) and Jacob E. Zortman. He graduated from Northeast Catholic High School and went on to earn a degree in chemistry and dyeing from the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Sciences (now Jefferson University) in 1958. While at college, he was a proud member of the Phi Psi fraternity, a professional fraternity in the field of textiles and manufacturing engineering, and a member of the men's basketball team, excelling as a guard under legendary coach Bucky Harris. Charlie also proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves.
In 1957, Charlie met Patricia Love O'Shaughnessy at a dance in Philadelphia. From the moment they met, he declared he would marry her-and he did. Charlie and Pat married in 1959, beginning a beautiful 62-year journey together. They started their family in Philadelphia before settling in Park Ridge, NJ, to raise their children.
Charlie dedicated his entire career to the textile industry, working for 36 years at Ciba-Geigy (later Novartis), ultimately retiring as Director of Sales. After retirement, he continued to share his expertise, owning Aurora Color, a textile chemical and dye manufacturing and distribution firm in Rhode Island, and actively serving as a consultant for various companies in the industry.
A passionate golfer, Charlie played the game for 77 years-up until his final days. Introduced to the sport by his father, he was a long-standing member of several clubs over the years, including Saucon Valley Country Club (PA), Seaview Country Club (NJ), Moselem Springs Golf Club (PA), and Manchester Country Club (NH). Most recently, he enjoyed daily golf rounds and perfecting his finesse around the putting green at "The Muni" in Summit, NJ.
Charlie was also a devoted fan of Philadelphia sports, especially the Eagles and Phillies, holding season tickets for many years. He later adopted Boston College athletics, attending basketball games for over 40 years and enthusiastically cheering on the Eagles in football, basketball, and hockey.
Charlie's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. He wore his Miraculous Medal daily and prayed to Our Lady of Victories with unshakeable belief. He was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus and an active parishioner at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Short Hills, NJ, volunteering to secure turkeys and hams for the annual food drives and to help prepare for Holy Day Masses. Charlie's deep faith gives comfort to those who loved him, as we believe he now rests peacefully in Heaven in the presence of the Blessed Mother, reunited in eternal life with his wife, Patricia, and continuing his prayers for those on Earth.
Above all, Charlie's greatest joy was his family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia Love Zortman (née O'Shaughnessy), in 2021, and by his son-in-law, John Rogers. He is survived by his loving children: Patricia Zortman; Kathleen Zortman and her husband, James F. Higgins, Jr.; Daniel Zortman and his wife, Elizabeth; and Pamela Rogers. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kate Higgins Hotte and her husband, Drew; Caroline, Catherine, and Timothy Zortman. He is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 7th at 10:00 AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 50 Short Hills Ave., Short Hills, NJ. The Mass will be presided over by Rev. John F. Wackerman, Charlie's nephew, whom he loved and admired deeply. A private interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Philadelphia, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Charlie's memory to the Dominican Nuns of Summit, to continue his legacy of kindness, devotion, and prayer. Dominican Nuns of Summit · Donate in Memory of Charles Zortman.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Paul Ippolito Summit Memorial.