Margot "Ortmann" Sambito

Margot Ortmann Sambito, 99, known lovingly as Grandma Oma, passed away peacefully on Labor Day in West Boylston, Massachusetts. Born in Berlin-Kaulsdorf, Germany, to Kurt and Charlotte Ortmann, she lived a long and remarkable life, experiencing everything life could offer and sharing those moments with the people she loved.

Her early years were shaped by war and displacement, but she also carried memories of a quieter childhood, brightened by her beloved grandmother's care and her father's patient handiwork. She grew up surrounded by strong, hard-working women whose determination inspired her throughout her life.

In 1952, Margot emigrated from Germany and arrived in America the following year, speaking little English but determined to build a new life. In Leominster, she met and married Anthony "Tony" Sambito, and in 1961 proudly became an American citizen. Together they built their home on Spadoni Way in Dennis, where she embraced the warmth of the Sambito family and the lively gatherings that became central to her life.

Margot raised her children with fierce love, strong values, and the humor and candor that marked her character. She often reflected on the contrast between her quiet German upbringing and the joyful traditions of her Italian-American family, with its strong women, good food, and commitment to hard work and education. She took deep pride in both her heritage and her family, preserving their stories so her children and grandchildren would know where they came from and the sacrifices that were made for them.

Even in her later years, she wrote to her family, reminding them to enjoy the simple things: family, friends, flowers, quiet moments, and unexpected kindness. She loved her morning coffee at Bolton Orchards and remained grateful for her home, her independence, and her red Chevy.

Margot's letters and stories always ended the same way: "I love you all!" It was the truest expression of who she was - a woman who knew both hardship and joy, but whose gratitude and love never wavered.

She was predeceased by her husband, Tony, and her brother, Wolfgang Ortmann.

She is survived by her children: Andy Sambito and his wife, Loraine, of Leominster, MA; Vincenza Sambito Nelson and her husband, Vincent J. Nelson, of Honolulu, HI; and Matt Sambito of Salem, MA, along with his former spouse, Holly Philbrick of Milford, NH. She is also remembered by her dear friend, Gloria (Sambito) Gallant of Leominster, MA. Her grandchildren brought her endless pride: her only granddaughter, Halla Sambito of Terrebonne, OR; Jordan Nelson and Ahram Shin of Peabody, MA; Jonathan Booker Nelson and Eunjoo Lee Nelson of Jeonju, South Korea; Lucas Sambito and Nadia Djan of Leominster, MA; and Matthew Sambito and Adam Sambito of Whitinsville, MA. She is further survived by her niece, Ilona Ortmann Ramia of Berlin, Germany.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Oakdale Rehabilitation in West Boylston, MA, for their care and kindness during Margot's final days.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, October 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leominster Senior Center.