Judith Sorgen 1943-2016
Judith Sorgen
Judith Sorgen was born March 1943 in Downey, California to Blanche and Walton Wood.When Judith was very young she was given a child’s sewing machine. Her mother, Blanche, taught her sewing and knitting. It was while in college that Judith became interested in weaving. She purchased her first loom post college after graduating from Sacramento State. Many of us found out that she wove her own wedding dress when she modeled it in a fashion show several years ago
Judith married a college classmate and onetime lab partner, Gary Sorgen, in December, 1967.
After college Judith was employed by Contra Costa College in Oakland and later by the new Indian Valley College in Novato. She was in charge of the of the chemical stockrooms at both schools. After several years at IVC, she went to work For Bank of America as a beginning programmer and retired from the bank as a senior vice president.
Demonstrating spinning
Judith continued her interest in all things fiber, taking classes and going to conferences. What she enjoyed the most was the friendship she formed in this community.
Fiber with friends
Judith joined the Tamalpias Guild in 1970 and served as President from 1975-76 and again from 1994-1996.
Judith was on the CNCH Advisory Council from 2004 to 2014 with a one year leave so she could chair CNCH 2009 held in Sonoma.
Exploring Kumihimo
In November 2014, Judith suffered a left hemisphere stroke. It affected her right leg, arm and speech. After intensive therapy, she could walk with a cane. Judith died June 8th from complications due to the stroke.
Judith was an accomplished spinner, knitter, weaver and seamstress. She was liked and respected by all who knew her.