James Kenneth Sorenson "Jim/Papa"born February 16, 1937 in Detroit, Michigan passed away peacefully November 2, 2019 at Tidewell Hospice around 8:30 p.m. in Arcadia, Florida. He became a resident of Desoto County in 1976. Papa was a loving husband, stepfather and grandfather. Being a nature and animal lover, most of his extra time was spent outdoors with his Yorkshire Terrier "BoJo" working on the a-frame house he was building. He was a very social man. Treated everyone as they were his friend. Had a great sense of humor. He even laugdhed at my lame jokes. My dad had a deep love for my mother and she does for him as well. I learned a lot from him. He raised us kids by teaching us manners, morals and respect, also emphasized the importance of a good education. He loved to read, learn and watch westerns. John Wayne was his favorite and Papa developed a huge fondness for my little sister who just happen to share the same birthday with " The Duke". He was the most intelligent man I've ever known. I believe he knew something about everything. During his early years he joined the National Guard then went on to work as an EMT and firefighter. With love for his community and desire to help his fellow man, he was encouraged to become chief. During his heroic term as Fire Chief in Sarasota, Florida he met his future wife, Judith Ann Owen with her 3 children. On November 10, 1974, at the Siesta Key fire station, he made her his wife. As everyone was throwing rice, wishing them luck and congratulations, they held on to the side rail of a fire truck that his fellow firemen was drivíng and had decorated with tin cans strung behind it and the words "JUST MARRIED" on the back . After his term ended, He moved to Desoto County after being elected Fire Chief for a term. The rest of his working years were for a constructión company as a mason
Papa is preceded by his parents Kenneth and Lucy Sorenson. Survivors are: his wife Judith Sorenson and his sister Jeane Rimal. Also surviving are his children: Chelchie Lee Owen, Lena Rottger and Teresa Kerth. Plus grandchildren are: Christopher Rottger, Marvin Alley, Joyce Santos, Nickolas Owens and Kyle Kerth. With a niece, nephew s and a few great grandchildren also. We are having a small gathering of friends and family at the property on Horse Creek November 25th. At 9:a.m. There we will spread his remains for his final resting place. Christopher will notify everyone of the date and time. We are so very thankful to the staff at Tidewell Hospice for the superior and excellent care they gave my dad during his final days. Donations and condolences can be sent online to: www.everloved.com where I've posted his memorial. May God Rest His Soul.