Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Michael C. J. Rorie

FUNERAL HOME

Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home

9902 Braddock Road

Fairfax, Virginia

Michael Rorie Obituary

RORIE MICHAEL C. J. RORIE (Age 32) of Centreville, VA passed away on July 30, 2010. He was the beloved son of Michael S. Rorie of Alexandria, VA and Susan Rorie of Centreville, VA as well as a devoted brother to Matthew Rorie of San Francisco, CA, Michelle Rorie of Alexandria, VA and Melissa Rorie of College Park, MD. He is also survived by his grandparents Admiral C. J. and Patricia Rorie of San Diego, CA and Geneva Evans of Florence, AL, as well as his aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010 at 5 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 7 p.m. at FAIRFAX MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 9902 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, www.afsp.org . www.fmfh.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Aug. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Rorie

Sponsored by MICHAEL S. RORIE.

89 Entries

Garret Hiller

March 20, 2025

I was randomly Googling people I knew from high school today, as in the past couple of years I’ve been curious to find out whatever became of classmates that I knew and made an impression on me. Mike was one such person. So of course, I am shocked to learn he had passed so many years ago. But I am not surprised in the least to see that that man truly went places and did impressive things in his relatively short time on this Earth.

I was one year younger and one class year lower than Mike. However, we shared a class called Peer Helpers during what would have been his junior year (and my sophomore year) at McLean High School from 1994-95, and then shared another class, Physics, in his senior year from 1995-96. I never got to know Mike all that well - he seemed like the kind of guy that was razor-focused on his academics and social interactions were secondary - but I could be wrong. But what I do remember is that he was a nice guy, and smart, and clean-cut, and handsome, and just very well put together. He was definitely preppy. I think I was also fascinated with how he contrasted so much with his younger brother Matt, who was in the same class year as me in high school. I had this impression of Mike that he was going to go on to do some great things after he graduated.

I remember in our Peer Helpers class how he and I, and really everyone in that class, thought that our teacher was kind of lame. So I find it ironic that Mike himself went on to become a teacher himself, and one who really impacted on his students’ lives. I remember that he was really into Green Day that school year (their album Dookie was popular around that time). And I have a memory from Physics class of him when he was doing classwork and he was singing to himself, “shoop, shoop, shoop, shoop be doop” from Whitney Houston’s song “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)”. That caught my attention since I liked that song too. I also remember Mike being in student government.

I would have reached out to Mike today on social media because he was a good guy and to see if he remembered me. Sorry I missed reconnecting, Mike. My condolences to his family and friends and everyone else whose lives he touched.

Michelle W (sister)

August 11, 2022

I just wanted to reach out and thank all of Michael's previous students, who have taken the time to post on this guestbook. Your words mean so much to us. It's a comfort to know that he touched others' lives, in the way he did ours, and reading the anecdotes and comments is a living testament to him.
Jiexin Meng, thank you expressly for your comments over the past couple of years. So crazy to think you're the same age as he was when he passed! Hard to believe it's been 12 years.
Hope each and every one of you are doing well and are happy, as I know Michael wouldn't have wanted anything less.
Cheers to all,
Michelle

MICHAEL RORIE

August 6, 2022

It has been over 12 years since your passing. Everyday I think about you. Rest In Peace son.
Love Dad

Jieixn Meng

August 4, 2022

Hi Mr.Rorie,

I still come in here every time I receive a notification in my inbox. I am now at the same age as you were when you left this world. I had my own struggles but managed to move on from it. The world has been crazy but I guess us human beings are just repeating the history, which I learned from you! Hope you are at peace now.

Jiexin Meng

Jiexin Meng

August 12, 2020

I cannot believe it has been 10 years since you left us and 13 years since we graduated from you class. It still feels like yesterday when we were in that history classroom in BISS and You were dropping surprise quizzes on us. With years passing by, it has become more and more clear to me how lucky I was to have you as my history teacher in high school. You taught us to always dig deeper under the surface of things, to explore different angles and to put things into perspectives. If you were still here, we would have had so many interesting conversations on the current world political scene. I hope you have found peace on the other side and you will forever live in our memory.

Min Park

January 25, 2019

It's been more than 10 years since we graduated, 8 and a half years since you left, but we still miss you. Its hard to believe how fast the world is changing, and I am sure you would've made funny jokes about the politicians these days if you were still here with us. I miss your sense of humor!

August 4, 2016

hey bro

i love coming here and seeing all of the entries... it's amazing how many lives you touched. and i'm so blessed that i got to know you for 28 years.

guess what! i got married. it was bittersweet not having you there, but we honored you (although you would have told us not to make a fuss over you). in spite of the weather, the wedding was beautiful, and it was quick! my kind of wedding. so i got rid of the 'rorie' and now have a new last name.

on your anniversary, jimmy and i went to where we spread your ashes. it was the first time i took him there, and it was nice, if sad. 6 years and not a day goes by where I don't think of you.

well, just wanted to stop by and say i love you and that i miss you so much. you and jimmy would've really liked each other .

ciao,
michelle (w!)

Young Min Park

March 9, 2016

Hello Mr. Rorie!
I just wanted to stop by and tell you that you are still in our hearts. Time is flying and now I am not as 'young' as I used to be, but I really miss the times when you were singing the 'forever young' song and making fun of me in class. I miss your class, smile and sense of humor.

February 5, 2016

happy birthday michael. i miss you every day. i was just reading through all of the comments from your students and fellow colleagues, and they are so touching. i'm so glad we have this living testimony to you.

i wish you were going to be there to celebrate with us when i get married... you would have really loved jimmy, and he would've really loved you.

god speed and lots of love,
michelle

Mike Rorie

April 18, 2014

We miss you everyday. My dear son I love you and think about you everyday. I am sure god is watching over you along with our family.

February 6, 2014

Hey bro, love and miss you so much. Each year seems to get harder. I am the Volunteer Coordinator board member for the local chapter of AFSP, and this year we won Best Chapter at the AFSP National Leadership Conference out in Denver! So that was exciting and I was so proud to be a part of that, to be part of something bigger to honor your memory.

Love you always,
Moo

February 5, 2014

Dear Michael,

You live every day in our hearts. We miss your smile, your laughter, and your joy.

Love, Mom

3 bouquets, one for each year we've missed you

Michelle

July 31, 2013

Hi Michael.

Hard to believe it's been 3 years.

Visited Great Falls yesterday, and it's so peaceful along the river where we spread your ashes. I feel you there with me, and wish it were, of course, in real life. Just know that I love you and miss you terribly, and not a day goes by that I don't think of you and wish you were here.

Love Always,
Moo

The Other Twin and Dr. Mel

May 28, 2013

Hi Michael, had a bittersweet event on May 19th. It was Mel's PhD graduation, and I know you would've been (and are!) proud of her, as all of us are. Your presence was the only thing missing though, and that made me terribly sad.

We also had a scare with Mom, as you know, a couple of months ago, with her almost dying from a heart attack. I'm so glad you were watching over us - and HER - because I don't think we could've made it through another devastating loss. She sees it as a broken heart, since we lost you, but that this is her second chance at life. She is doing much better, thank God. You'd be proud of her too, the strides she's making.

It makes me sad that time has flown by so quickly, and that it's almost been three years. It's hard to believe, really. Each year it gets harder, and easier, if that makes sense. Harder because we miss you and it's more 'real', easier because we are coming to terms with the loss. I've been doing a lot of volunteering in your honor and memory with AFSP, and that's been helping I think; making a difference out of such a tragic loss.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you. And that I love and miss you so very much. I'm attaching a picture of Mel and I at her graduation (she's now Dr. Mel and I'm going to call myself "the Other Twin"). You'd laugh and call her Lisa Simpson of course, haha. You'd also laugh at her court jester graduation gown, no doubt.

I'll be thinking of you this weekend when I volunteer for AFSP's Annual National Overnight "Out of the Darkness" walk. I think about you every day, but I find comfort in knowing you're my guardian angel, and are looking after me. I wear a necklace reminding me of that all the time.

Love,
Michelle (Moo-Moo)

February 6, 2013

Hey bro. Your 35th birthday would have been yesterday. Visited where we spread your ashes, and I know you were there as well. There was a blue heron nearby, as there was the day two and a half years ago. It brought a lot of comfort, and it's so peaceful there - even on a cloudy, dreary winter day.

It seemed a lot harder this year, not having you here.

Love and miss you so, so much.

Michelle

Michael Ryan

July 30, 2012

Two years ago my life changed. You and your family are and have always been in my prayers.

July 30, 2012

Michael,

2 years ago today we lost you. I really don't know what to say except that as much as it hurts to not have you here, I know you're by my side and looking over me always. I'm finally getting my life in order and am savoring the happy moments, as bittersweet as they are without you, because I know that's what you would've wanted. It's hard to see life moving on without you.

You would've enjoyed our trip to San Fran to see Matt this past June. I volunteered at the Nat'l AFSP walk in your honor, and attached a pic of the group I worked with. Silly 80's theme. You would've been proud of Mom, who made it 13 miles.

Anyway, this is long-winded. I just wanted to let you know that you're always in my thoughts and close to my heart. We're going to be visiting Great Falls today, where we spread your ashes, to honor you.

I love and miss you so much.

Love, your baby sis, Moo Moo ;)

Gary Williams

April 2, 2012

I was so sorry to recently learn of Michael's passing ...It has been many years since I spoke with Michael, but I vividly remember what a thoughtful, engaging classmate he was when we were slogging through Duke's history seminar. I am happy to see he followed his love of teaching across the world after Duke, and enjoyed so many different experiences. It is heartening to know he touched so many students with his passion...I am sorry we did not keep in touch Michael, I know I am the worse for it...God's peace, my friend...

Michelle Rorie

January 4, 2012

Michael,

Somehow we made it through the holidays and our 30th birthday without you. I remember for your 30th you went skydiving... I didn't quite have the courage to do that but maybe one day.

The beginning of 2012 marked the first full calendar year without you. Incredulous to think about - muddling through our grief but aspiring to live life without you physically here.

Just know that there isn't a day that I don't think of you, or miss you terribly.

Love you always,
Your little sis Michelle

Michael Ryan

August 5, 2011

Michael, I'm sorry I didn't get to know you better.

Benton Green

July 31, 2011

Yesterday I received a message from classmate Young Min Park "Forever Young" reminding me that it had been a year since our teacher Michael Rorie left us too early in this life. I didn't know what to think when I first heard, and a year later the same feeling of disbelief remains. My thoughts and prayers go to your family and friends, but most importantly I give my thanks to you Michael for the two years you taught and mentored me during a pivotal moment in my life.

July 31, 2011

I cannot believe it has been a year already. I just graduated from university and will start my first job next week. I just want Mr. Rorie to know how much he has been missed by me and by all the other students in Super 12 history class. His teaching helped a great deal to what I have accomplished today. I wish he could be here to share the news of my graduation. I feel lucky and proud to be taught by a teacher like him. He taught us not only knowledge but also passion and responsibility. More importantly, he was showing it to us through himself. I wish his students will make him proud just like how proud we are to have him in our lives.

Michelle Rorie

July 31, 2011

Hi big bro - yesterday was a year since you died. We - I - miss you so much. Your laugh, your uncanny ability to make *us* laugh, your smile, your humility, your sensitivity... too many adjectives to list. It's getting more real (and thus, harder) as time goes on that you're not coming back to us, but I know you are at peace now, and I'm so grateful that you're no longer suffering.

I love you and miss you more than you'll never know. I hope you can forgive us for our continual grief, but our lives will never be the same without you. I wish you had realized how truly special you were and how many lives you had touched.

Your baby sister,
Michelle

Young Min Park

July 30, 2011

Its been a year already.. I still remember the time studying in his class. He was the most humorous and also one of the most friendly teacher I've ever had in my 15+years of learning. Always welcoming us in his class,he was always very eager to teach us history, trying his best to get us prepared for the IB exam. I miss the times when you gave me the nick name "Forever young". I really want to tell Michael how much I enjoyed being in his class. We miss you...

I put this prayer flag at a mountain in Bhutan for Mr.Rorie.

July 30, 2011

Rosemary Schmiedeler

July 28, 2011

I did not know Michael but I did talkwith his Dad and grandmother, Patricia, when I was trying to locate people who knew my dear brother, Bill Kinsella. Bill served under CJ on the USS Robing when they were very young and just starting their Navy careers. I just want Michaels family to know that I am so touched by the beautiful entries in his memory. I know Michael was truly a fine young man whose indomitable spirit and unconditional love continues to uplift and inspire his family and friends. Rosemary Schmiedeler, Westwood, Kansas

Steve Heere

February 26, 2011

I first met Mike at an int'l school job fair in San Francisco in February, of 2004. At this fair, I remember Mike as a positive, passionate and engaging person. Mike wore a brown corduroy jacket that he thought was a good luck jacket and would get him a great job at the fair. He talked about his love for travel, cultures, etc. At the time of this fair, Mike had already lived in Rome, Israel and other places, while I was going for my first international teaching job. So, Mike gave me great insights into the life of an int'l school teacher. Mike and I talked a lot at this San Fran. job fair, quickly became friends, and since we both landed jobs in China, we decided to keep in touch.

Mike took a job in Beijing and I took a job in Shanghai. After a few months, Mike came to visit Shanghai and I showed him around the city. Our friendship took off when Mike came to Shanghai for a visit. We had a good time enjoying Shanghai's nightlife, meeting girls, talking about life in China, etc. Mike was a great conversationalist and was an engaging person to talk with over a few drinks.

Mike and I later took 3 trips together while we were both living in China. We visited Japan for about 8 days together, we visited Yunnan Province in Southwest China and also visited Inner Mongolia and some historic places in Northern China with a Kiwi (New Zealand) friend of ours.

Mike and I were both into photography so we visited some brilliant sites on these trips and we connected quite well because we were the same age, both were going through the same blessings and challenges of teaching overseas and both enjoyed looking deeper into things than most other people...

Mike and I met again at a job fair in 2008 when we both went to the Bangkok Job Fair in January of 2008. At this fair, I took a job in Tokyo and Mike took a job in Korea. He was really excited to get into a great school, great pay, and he hit it off the the admin. at the school. Mike would tell me that this school in Korea looked at his resume and said "You went to Duke!" Wow!! The, the administrators started talking in Korean about Duke University and Mike knew he had the job... Anyway, when Mike tells this story, it was really funny unlike my version. Mike was excited about this job, but later he found out that he couldn't take it because I think his mother was sick and he thought he should be near her and take care of her.

I respected how much Mike sacrificed of his own personal desires for other people. When we took trips traveling around China and Japan, I always thought Mike wanted to chill and relax more whereas I wanted to see as much as possible and Mike went along with it and saw as much as possible because he was the type of person to think about other people before himself. I suppose I am and was more selfish than Mike.

Also, I remember meeting one of Mike's administrators from BISS or Thailand, I can't forget which one, and he told me that Mike is the best teacher in his school and that his daughter (who was a student at the int'l school) thinks that Mike was the best teacher she ever had in her life.

Mike was an easy guy to like, he was witty, funny, engaging, unselfish, interesting and he loved teaching, traveling and cultures. When I found out about Mike's death I was incredibly shocked because I think everybody liked him and he was such a positive guy who was filled with life. He was a true world traveler, well-educated, and had a great future ahead of him.

I'm really sad to lose such a great friend and it hurts me that I can't call him now to laugh about things with him or have a deep and engaging conversation with Mike.

Mike's loss puts things in perspective for me and helps me realize how fragile life is and how people, friendships, relationship with people and God are the most important areas in life. Its too easy to get caught up in "to do lists", work, money, accomplishments or even yourself, but those things don't matter much in the big picture.

I'm still in shock to lose Mike. I just found out about his death in early February since Mike and I were slowly drifting apart after I moved to Japan and he was in the states...

Mike will be missed as a friend, son, and a teacher. It's rare to meet such a kind, selfless, engaging and positive person like Mike. He made a strong impact in my life and it was always a true pleasure to be around this great guy.

Michelle Rorie

February 4, 2011

Michael, tomorrow's your birthday, and last Sunday was the 6-month anniversary of your passing. Thinking of you always. We will be getting together in honor of your memory tomorrow, of course missing you more than you will ever know. Love you always, Michelle

Lynda Walls

September 3, 2010

Michael was a very dear friend and colleague. I am very saddened by word of his passing and will miss contact with him.

I too was a teacher at BISS. I supported special needs students who were in his classroom and found Michael's teaching strategies, units of instruction to be incredible. His wit was so brilliant and he had a special way to bring students along with the learning needed to perform to the highest degree. Since leaving BISS in 2006, I have missed watching his teaching craft develop. His passage is a great loss to not only his friends, but to those students he taught and could have taught.

God bless the Rorie family in this time of loss.

Michael in Beijing in front of Phoenix Town where he lived. Summer 2006

Enas Abdallah

August 31, 2010

Enas Abdallah

August 31, 2010

The news of Michael's passing came as a shock. Michael and I worked together while I was at BISS. His classroom was not only next to mine, he was also my homeroom teacher partner and he lived across the hallway from me at Phoenix Town. We went to Guilin together for activity week and we shared many moments discussing our fondness for Chinese antique furniture. But I remember Michael mostly through his humble politeness and deep kindness. He always treated me like a big sister and saw me through the death of my own grandmother and father during the year we worked together. He was never afraid to ask about how I was coping and was always there to listen. The last time I saw Michael was over 2 years ago in one of my visits back to Beijing (I believe during his last year at BISS) and it was so special that he attend a BISS reunion dinner at our favorite duck restaurant. Ironically, the news of his passing reached me while I was on another visit to Beijing earlier this month. I am truly saddened. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Justin Jarman

August 26, 2010

I will miss you Michael! I worked with Michael at BISS and will always remember his laugh and fun-loving spirit. Reading the reflections of his former students, his legacy as a truly outstanding and passionate educator is obvious. I will fondly remember our trip to Malaysia together where Michael presented at the Earcos conference, which was so successful he was talking with a publisher about a book deal. We also played a few enjoyable rounds of golf together - always a laugh as we were all equally bad. A great man you were Michael and you will be missed! My deepest condolences to your family.

in San Diego

Michelle Rorie

August 26, 2010

Thank you to everyone who took the time to sign the guestbook and made donations in Michael's memory (there will be more formal thank you's to come). I don't think he ever fully realized how many lives he touched or how special he truly was. We appreciate all the love and support during this very difficult time, and I know I speak on behalf of my entire family when I say that. This guestbook is truly a testimony to how amazing Michael was, and reading the entries have been of great comfort to us all.
Love always,
Michelle

Michelle Rorie

August 26, 2010

Miss you big bro... love you always. Words cannot express how much I miss you and will always miss you. There will be a hole in my heart always.

Mary Montgomery

August 26, 2010

I was fortunate to have been Michael's student-teacher at BISS in Beijing. Michael was a fantastic mentor who offered encouragement, support, and guidance. His enthusiasm for his teaching was apparent in his classroom and in the rapport he shared with his students. I now teach at BISS in Michael's old classroom and find small reminders of him everywhere -- pictures, books, outlines, and even his handwritten notes. My heart and deepest sympathy goes out to his family and friends. I hope it is some small comfort to know that Michael touched lives all over the world and continues to be remembered and thought of with great fondness and admiration every day.

Stan Covington

August 26, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Michael for a number of years at BISS. He was a great teacher, full of ideas, passion and knowledge...Those of us at BISS collected a small donation of $600 towards the I had the pleasure of working with Michael for a number of years at BISS. He was a great teacher, full of ideas, passion and knowledge...Those of us at BISS collected a small donation of $600 to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America.

Somebody mentioned the activity week trip to Qingdao, as someone that trip Michael was excellent. He was great with the kids and did play a number of practical jokes on them! It was one of the more memorable activity week trips. He truly cared for the kids and will be missed...

WASHINGTON DC FOLK LIFE 2010

MICHAEL RORIE

August 18, 2010

A smile unforgettable

Sahil Bakshi

August 14, 2010

Mr. Rorie, a teacher one can never forget. I still remember being in his class for a blessed 2 years. History came into life in his classes.He was always full of life and joy.
Today as he is here no more, i stand here gravely shaken, and heart broken. I pray to the lord that he may rest in peace for eternity. Though he is gone, he is still in our hearts, and everyday that i may live, he will remain there.

A short prayer for him:
oh father, as i stand here miles away from where our beloved Mr.Rorie has passed away, i ask you to bless his soul. He was a man of joy , a man of happiness, so i pray to you that you shall give me everlasting joy in the after life. I pray that your mercy may shower upon his family, that they could get through such pain. You are the one who created us, and we belong to you. I ask this pray in the name of my father and savior. Amen.

Sahil Bakshi ( ex- student in BISS)

W Q

August 14, 2010

great history teacher. loved the dry humour, the red book on the mantle and the horrible costume plus afro on international day. RIP.

Barbara Montgomery

August 13, 2010

Susan, my prayers will be with you and your family during this difficult time. I do understand what you are going thru now, as my son, my first child, age 30, died in 2005. Life has not been the same, for me or for his 2 children, since his death..But just take one day at a time and God will see you thru. Barbara English Montgomery (youngest child of Nancy Horton English)

Liang Ying Koh

August 13, 2010

I too was one of Mr Rorie's History students three years ago at Beijing BISS, where he quickly became one of my favourite teachers. He made learning fun, engaging and interactive, and you could always count on Mr Rorie to have a joke (or two) on hand. He gave great advice and even suggested colleges that he thought best suited me when it was time to think about university. My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Mr Rorie was an amazing person, and will always be fondly remembered as the "Super" teacher.

Rahul Shrivastava

August 13, 2010

I remember Mr. Rorie as one of the few teachers who really understood the students he taught. He was more than just a good teacher he was a good friend to all his students. I remember our class trip to Qingdao about 4 years ago back in 9th grade when we gave the teachers a hard time on that trip pulling pranks all the time, where most teachers would get really upset he would share a laugh with us. Maybe because he was so young he could relate to us a lot more. His classes were always interesting and fun. We could talk to him about anything be it sports, politics, movies, music or whatever and he always had something interesting to tell us. One thing I can say for sure is that all his students will remember him for the rest of their lives. He may not be amoung us anymore but he will always remain in our memories. My sincere condolences to Mr. Rorie's Family.

August 12, 2010

This is a tremendous loss. Mr. Rorie taught me history in 9th and 10th grade in Beijing, China and it was his warmth and enthusiasm that inspired my love for the subject till today. I can still remember Mr. Rorie's shy laugh and honest smile as we joked in class and he drew charts and timelines on the chalkboard. He never put on airs and he always treated us like his friends. I do not know what to say, this is too soon, too sudden and too cruel.

p m

August 12, 2010

I knew you through someone important and I believe we only met briefly, but I can say that you truly touched their life and certainly by extension mine as well. I may be an atheist but I know you very important to many people and I believe that someone who could so profoundly affect people and drive them for the better will surely find peace, no matter what their beliefs were. There are people in the world who will never forget you.

Jason Heng

August 12, 2010

Mr Rorie was an extremely gentle man who always had a smile and a friendly "hello" for everyone who entered his classroom. As I get to know him better, he blew me away with his intellectual knowledge of Chinese History and his insight on current affairs. It was a blessing to have been taught by Michael in BISS. He was a great man and a great teacher. My sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr Rorie. He will be greatly missed.

Eugene Low

August 12, 2010

To Michael's family,
My sincere condolences to you all. I arrived in Beijing the same year with Michael. During the initial months in Beijing, Lolly and I spent a lot of time together, mostly out for meals and shopping for things to settle into our lives in Beijing. I can still recall the day he helped me picked out a Hi-fi set, my Chairman Mao poster and how he got me interested in Tibetian furniture. Him and I did share many happy times during those months. Sadly, for whatever reasons, we did drift apart. But through all these years, I have always been fond of Michael, and I will remember him as someone truly special in his own ways. From time to time, I think about him and about contacting him but sadly that somehow always got sidelined. Just weeks ago, I was packing up to move back to Singapore and thumbed through my BISS yearbooks. I remembered pausing when I saw a photo of Michael and remembering the times we shared and wondering how he had been doing since he left Beijing. I thought to myself then that I must make real effort to contact him again. Sadly, this wish will never come true for me now. I was deeply saddened when I was told about the news. In my mind, I am still trying to understand all of this. They say time will help heal wounds and I hope time will help ease the pain you must be feeling right now. But I certainly hope time will never wash away our memories of such a good person. Lolly, you will be missed.

Sam

August 12, 2010

Mr. Rorie's classes were one of the highlights of my high school years. He brought an energy into the classroom and helped to inspire us, his students.

August 12, 2010

Mr. Rorie's history classes were always an enjoyable highlight of my schooldays. He showed an amazing charisma towards students, making us feel just right.

Paulina Maqueda

August 12, 2010

I had Mr. Rorie for History during my one year at BISS. Once during a test, I was complaining that I was hungry and that it was the reason I couldn't continue taking the test (we were messing around a bit). I turned to my backpack to get a new pen and as soon as I look at my test paper again... a moonpie appears out of nowhere! It's one of the things that made me smile most about Mr. Rorie. I'm so sorry for what happened, and my best wishes to the Rorie family. He was a simple, yet great man who will be deeply missed.

Anthony Norman

August 12, 2010

I have many fond memories of a remarkable teacher. Michael, you always seemed to see the light side of any situation. Your kind nature with the students you taught will be treasured by all. Everyone from the BISS community will reflect on some happy times spent with Michael - Normie, Karen, Rhys

Allison White

August 12, 2010

Hello,
I was deeply saddened today when I heard of Michael's passing. I cannot imagine how you, the family are feeling. I taught with Michael in Beijing, arriving the same year he did, and only leaving this year. While "Lolly" was at BISS he and I worked on the after school activity MUN together. His depth of knowledge and passion for international relations was incredible. Through this activity, as well as his courses he gave his heart to the students. I also remember him for his quick wit and his ability to make his students laugh as they learned. I hope that he is now at rest, and that in time, you may begin to be as well. He will be missed.

Jiexin Meng

August 12, 2010

I was Mr Rorie's history student in BISS 3 years ago. Although we were a small class, every single one of us loved him so much. His history class is my best memory of high school.The knowledge he taught us is still useful to me today in university. I still remember our little jokes in history class, it was like yesterday. I loved history but I could not do well due to my limited ability of English when I was in BISS. However, it was Mr. Rorie who taught me how to write a good history essay, it was him who encouraged me when I lost confident. I would not pass my IB history test and achieve what I have achieved today without his help. I am so shocked when I heard about this from my old classmate. I still cannot accpet the fact that he is gone. Now I am full of regret that I did not contact him more often after he left BISS. I send my love and condolences to Mr Rorie's family and always remember him as the the best teacher I have ever had.

Yuri Kamihagi

August 12, 2010

Mr Rorie was my history teacher at BISS for two whole years. It was his humor and passion as well as his incredible knowledge of teaching materials that convinced me to take History HL. Our class, the SUPER11 (which later became SUPER 12) was one of my favorite classes in high school. We never stopped laughing during our classes and the History HL Sushi Party we had was definitely my favorite memory of a classroom fun! I only heard this news today and I am in the deepest shock. My deepest and most sincere condolences to Mr. Rorie's family. He will always be my favorite history teacher.
-Yuri Kamihagi

Dominique Dalais

August 11, 2010

We joined BISS and left it with Michael from 2004 to 2008. Michael was well loved by many in Beijing, especially the students he taught. Michael was a good friend, always honest and kind. He was always willing to play with our son Seb wherever we were and whenever we had our get togethers or adventures around Beijing. I was without words when I heard of the loss of Michael and am still trying to understand all of this. It was only recently that we were emailing about Michael looking at a job in Switzerland. I send all my love to your family and will always remember our Lolly.

Anya Dalais

August 10, 2010

We arrived bright eyed in Beijing in 2004 along with Michael to start off our new international teaching jobs there. It wasn't long before we, along with 2 very close and dear friends to both Michael and us, became a sort of a 5-some. Well, 6 really as our son was only 13 months old at the time. Lolly, as he affectionately became nicknamed was so good with our son Sebastien. He would play with him for ages and always make him laugh doing the silliest tricks. I still can't figure out why walking around with 1 foot in a waste paper basket was so hilarious...sadly, not only to our son but to all of us! In those 4 years we had many a BBQ evening, Saturday or Sunday morning brunch or shopping expedition at some obscure out of the way local carpet shop or furniture store in inner Mongolia that he found or heard about. He was part of the family...truly. What I remember most about Michael is his commitment and dedication to teaching and his incredible knowledge about current events, history and art. I remember his brilliant collection of kitchy Chairman Mao collectables that started to accumulate around his flat in Beijing among his beautiful art history books. It is so hard for us to wrap our heads around this tragedy but if it has taught us anything it is that life is so precious. Our deepest and most sincerest condolences to your family for such a great loss of such a wonderful human being.

Deidre Fischer

August 10, 2010

To Michael's family
My sincere condolences to you all. Michael's classroom was next to my office when he worked in Beijing ... maybe unfortunate for some .... but not for Michael as he appeared to be able to put up with my 'drop ins' and chats. I was only relating a story about Michael last week to share with a new teacher who had arrived at our school, and it was about his wonderful whiteboards and how they were so fascinating and reflected different stages of his teaching of History. I have many wonderful memories, which I will hang onto as I remember how he contributed so much to his students and colleagues and family.

Hank DeGreef

August 10, 2010

Mrs. Rorie - I taught with Michael at BISS and I just wanted you to know that he was an outstanding colleague with inspiring and innovative ideas on how to teach history and he was always always a kind and good-hearted friend. My prayers go out to you.

Steph Downer

August 9, 2010

Susan - I am so sorry to hear of your sad passing of Michael. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers and hopefully you fill find peace knowing that he is not troubled anymore. God bless you and your family -

Susan Rorie

August 7, 2010

I think anyone who knows me knows how much I loved Michael. I am sharing my words for him that I read at the memorial service. Thank you to all of you for your support during this difficult time.
"From the first moment that Michael was placed in my arms, I knew that I was destined to know love of many kinds: the protective love for the innocent child, the proud love of watching a child grow into an adult, the unconditional love for a child struggling to find meaning in life, and today the hardest type of love, the courageous love of letting a child go and still celebrate the life he left for us to remember.
Michael made loving easy. He was the center of his parents’ universe for the first 21 months of his life, but as his younger siblings came along, he never showed an ounce of jealousy and delighted in being the big brother. He always made time for both his brother and his sisters. And as he grew into a young man, he took on the world with unbelievable energy and insight. He always encouraged us to look beyond the narrow boundaries of our lives to learn about other cultures and religions. Because of him, I was able to glide through the canals of Venice, sit on the Spanish steps, and walk across the Ponte Vecchio not once, but twice; later, I walked the Great Wall of China, saw the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xian, and marveled at the beautiful architecture of Shanghai. All these were things that a small town girl from Tennessee could only dream about.
It was on my first trip to Italy that I found I had raised an excellent tour guide. I am still in awe of the way we could be walking down a street in Rome and Michael would rush me into a church to look at a painting or sculpture that he knew about. While many people know that Michael loved being a history teacher, you should know he was also an avid art historian; he loved the paintings of Caravaggio and the sculpture of Bernini, and any trip included visits to art museums.
Throughout his young adult life, he did so many things and treasured his time abroad and the places and things that he had seen. It has been very difficult in the past few years to watch Michael slipping away from us; for the past two years, we were tenacious in our attempts to hold on him. As we have noted this past week, however, even in his pain, he never struck out at others, and then in his choice to end his pain, he did his best to console us by his final acts and words.
So many times this week, the cards, the phone calls, the e-mails have started out with the thought that words cannot express the sorrow that we were all feeling, and yet your words have been the spiritual nourishment we needed when a worldly appetite seemed to fail us. Thank you for your thoughts, your prayers, and, yes, all those words that brought us memories and hope and honored this life that meant so much to us. As I have said so often this past week, if only Michael could have seen in himself what the rest of us saw in him, we would not be tonight in this room. It has been wonderful to hear how he is remembered by the lives he touched.
But tonight we must say good-bye, and so from his family, Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

August 7, 2010

"Susan, I am so sorry to hear about Michael. My prayers are with you and your family. It was a pleasure to know your son and to work with him this past year. I am deeply grieved and will be thinking of you and hoping you will find the Lords comfort." Lisa Trigiano

Thomas Waites

August 6, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss. Michael led an interesting and well traveled life. He must have touched the lives of many people. May he now find the peace he so longed for, Tom, Josette, Veronique and Elizabeth Waites.

Pat Dahlquist

August 6, 2010

Susan, I was so sorry to hear of you loss. You always spoke so highly and lovingly of Michael. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Coreen Farley

August 6, 2010

Susan,
My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family during the sad time. I pray God grants you strenght and brings you peace as you grieve the loss of your son Michael.

August 6, 2010

Susan,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Michael. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Doug Lipp

Karen Beers

August 5, 2010

Susan ~
You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers during this sad and difficult time. May you find peace and comfort in the love of family and friends and remembering that Michael will always be with you in your heart.

Todd Whitesell

August 5, 2010

Dear Susan and Family,
I can't imagine what it must be like for you at this time, as I'm still sorting things out in my own mind. We've spoken only a few times, and I never really had the pleasure of getting to know Michael. He made a very difficult decision. I'm sure you have many wonderful memories to help you through this time. May he rest in peace, and peace be with you.

Stacy Lloyd

August 5, 2010

Susan,

I was so fortunate to have worked with Michael and I will miss him dearly. He was so kind and caring. He was truly an amazing person and our time together included a lot of laughs. You are in my thoughts, prayers, and my heart. May God bless you and your family at this time.

Christina Ferrari

August 5, 2010

Susan, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Although I didn't know Michael well, I do know that he cared about the students whom he taught. Please know I am thinking about and praying for your family during this very difficult time.

Marlene Burke

August 5, 2010

Susan, my heart goes out to you and your family during this confusing and sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Peter Welch

August 4, 2010

To All Michael's Friends and Family,

Michael was to have joined us as a teacher at Istanbul International Community School this year. On behalf of our community, I would like to express our deepest condolences for the loss of Michael. You are all very much in our thoughts and we share in your great sadness at this time.

Sheryl Perez

August 4, 2010

Susan,
I am very sorry for your loss. I wish I had had the chance to get to know Michael better. He will always be with you and your family in spirit and in your memories. I am thinking of you and praying for you and your family.

Katharine Sherman

August 4, 2010

I am so very sorry for your loss, Susan. Your family is in my prayers. Everybody at Chantilly High School is blessed to know and to have worked with your son.

Dean Howarth

August 4, 2010

Mr & Mrs Rorie,
I was deeply saddened to be informed of the loss of your son. I fondly remember teaching the "whole clan" of Rorie kids at McLean High. It was a pleasure to have our paths cross the way they did, and I will not soon forget the members of your family. My condolences to you all.

Dean Howarth - McLean HS

Cathy Walker

August 4, 2010

Susan, I am deeply saddened by this news, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I'm going to miss seeing Mike in the halls, he was one of the first people that I got to know this year. Both of you, and your family, are in my thoughts and prayers.

Alexis Domme

August 4, 2010

I didn't have the opportunity to know Mike very well or for very long, but I know he was an important and kind member of our team and his students admired him and shared the stories of the places he had been that he shared with them.

Sue... you've been in my thoughts and every prayer.

Nancy Langley

August 4, 2010

Susan,
I was shocked to get word about the loss of your son. I only spoke with him a few times but they were very nice times. Please accept my deepest condolences,

Jeff Spring

August 4, 2010

Susan, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you have many family, friends and colleagues supporting you during this time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

Linda Lee

August 4, 2010

Susan,
I always enjoyed talking to Michael in your room and chatting with him at lunch in the workroom. I enjoyed his wit and knowledge. May God's love and the love of your friends and family surround you at this time.

Maurean Truncale

August 4, 2010

Susan, I am so sad to hear of your loss. Please know that I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that you and Michael will find peace.

August 4, 2010

Susan - I am deeply sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mary Kay Downes

August 4, 2010

Susan, please accept my sincere condolences for you and your family. Michael was a valued addition to our English team this past year. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Geoffrey Greenman

August 3, 2010

I am very sorry to hear about Michael's passing. He always made it a point to give a nice smile and to say hello when we passed each other in the hallways. I hope that your memories of him can help you through this difficult time. My thoughts are with you.

Wendy Lawson

August 3, 2010

Susan- Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear,
just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer. I found Michael to be a delightfully entertaining young man. I loved the stories he shared about his teaching experiences overseas. I will miss him.

Margaret Peixotto

August 3, 2010

I greatly admired Michael.

Michael answered a very profound question with "not to be", and embraced the dignity of his own death.

My heart aches for Susan and all his family.

May flights of angels sing him to his rest.

Ellie Kirschenbaum

August 3, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Michael since he joined the Chantilly staff. He was a kind and loving person who cared deeply for the success of our students. He was a wonderful role model and was the kind of young man that always brought pride to himself and his family. It is with profound sadness that I recognize this loss for his family, his peers, and his students. My condolences to all.

Robyn Singletary

August 3, 2010

Susan & Family,
I am truely saddened to learn of Michael's passing. He was always quick to flash a smile or cheerfully say hello when he visited us in the library. May the memories he left all of you, help you through this difficult time. May God grant you peace.

Kevin Hickerson

August 3, 2010

Lauren and I loved talking to Michael at lunch and hearing his opinions on various subjects. He was a thoughtful and caring person whom we will miss. If there is anything that we can do, please let us know.

Apryl Shue

August 3, 2010

I only had the opportunity to know Michael for a very short time. It was truly a pleasure to get to know him. Though I cannot attend his service, please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this very difficult experience.

SUSAN. MICHELLE AND MIKE

MICHAEL RORIE

August 3, 2010

He was a wonderful son who tried his hardest to live up to his idea's and travel the world to teach others. He will truly be missed by myself and his family. We had him for 32 years but the medical problems along with the side effects of the medications would not let him live a life with out pain and suffering. He took his life in order for his mother and I along with his sisters and one brother not to worry about him and to put himself at peace with himself. We will all missing him greatly. Michael S. Rorie of Alexandria, Va.

Showing 1 - 89 of 89 results