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John Randall Sorenson
John Randall Sorenson, passed away at his residence in New Orleans, on April 27, 1982.
Born August 9, 1946 in El Paso, Texas, to Morris and Julia Johnston Sorenson. Spent childhood years in New Orleans, later received his education in Salt Lake City. Graduate of Skyline High School and LDS Seminary Program. Returned to New Orleans where he worked several years for the investment firm of Scharff and Jones. For the past four years he had been an employee of National American Bank & Trust Co. Elder in LDS Church and active in several Church programs.
Survivors: mother, Julia J. Sorenson, New Orleans; father Morris Sorenson, Salt Lake City; half sisters, Susan, Denver, Marilyn, Salt Lake City; grandmother, Mrs. Maggie Sorenson, Ephraim, Utah; several aunts, uncles, cousins in Louisiana, Arizona and Utah.
LDS Church Services were conducted in New Orleans and Interment at Westlawn Memorial Park of that city.
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Robert Birkinshaw
We were kids in school together. Which makes me no expert on his life. I don’t recall now if it was elementary or junior high, junior high for sure where we first met. John was one of those one in a million kids who had an amazing attitude. As the shortest kid in our class, he was an easy target for the cowardly and unkind among us (you know who you are - or hopefully, were). His walk was a bit halt. Occasionally he used a wheelchair. He would be the last to be chosen for teams in gym. Many times he would be the one to sit out on the sidelines with Coach Woodward. However, that never affected his relentless smile. He was a great tenor in Concert choir. I was kind of envious of John because he had no problems getting the likes of Becky Nixon, Shanna Kellette, Mary Lou Fruin and Donna Bird (I could go on and on) to dance with him. They towered over him as he shuffled along, but always had what appeared to be a wonderful time dancing with him. He would smile broadly and wink at me as he passed by with one of these beauties in his arms.
I couldn’t say what took him from us or even when. He was one of those who had a few less tomorrows than the the rest. There was much more about John than was obvious, or even discussed about John. He was unique, good, kind, respectful, fun to be around and had a streak of mischief. He would be the last one to be considered a perpetrator. His challenges often divided him. He never spoke of his condition. I guess he preferred not to be defined by his ailment.
I can only say that what little I knew of John garnered respect and admiration. I was honored that he even knew my name. I could not allow his class memorial to be blank for the want of a simple kind word.
Rob Hanks
Thanks for adding the comment. We all knew John but Rob, you obvioiusly knew him better than I did.
Your thoughts are much appreciated and I am sorry to hear of John's passing.
Walt Hanni
I too didn't know John well but appreciated your comments.
Pam Woods (Keyes)
Another note of sincere appreciation for your comments, Rob B. They captured and impacted me for their compassion and understanding more than you may have realized in writing. Also sorry to hear of John's passing.
Linda Pollei (Hincy)
John was in several classes with me, and I loved his sense of humor- a dry crack-up.
I remember his limping stroll and good nature, sometimes struggling to sit down on his desk chair. I tried to be extra nice to him, smile, and let him know he was validated as my friend. I always admired his positive attitude and wondered if, and hoped that he had a good life.
Linda Pollei Hincy