Col. William Paris Sorbo

Parted for 46 years, as death can do, Col.William Paris Sorbo was reinterred on May 6, 2021 next to his beloved wife, Flavia Cutugno Sorbo, in the Field of Honor at Historic Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh. “Bill” was disinterred from Castleview Memorial Gardens in New Castle, PA, his town of birth, and placed alongside his wife who passed on January 22, 2021. Family attending the graveside service included their two children, Linda Daigle and Richard Sorbo, respective spouses Elliott Daigle, Jr. and Joy Sorbo, and grandson Ryan Daigle. Absent were grandson Bennett Sorbo, spouse Tess, and great granddaughter Elliott Lilly Daigle. Bill’s sudden death, at age 49, while still on active duty, was a heavy loss. Life continued and the many years marched ever forward despite the struggle of his absence. Flavia opened a new, long chapter near her sister, Antonina Cutugno, and with a longtime partner, Ernst Hauser, in the Bronx, NYC. Linda and Richard defined their lives with marriages, families, and careers. Everyone journeyed with courage, ambition, and enthusiasm while always remembering what he represented to us: stability, integrity, and devotion. Col. Sorbo enlisted in 1949 and became an army officer in 1951. His 29- year career spanned WW II, Korea, and Vietnam and was distinguished by the Bronze Star as well as numerous commendation medals. He died unexpectedly, September 2, 1975, in Flavia’s arms at their home in Louisville, Kentucky. Bill’s sister-in-law, Antonina Cutugno, herself a navy veteran, was buried last year in Oakwood’s Field of Honor. Flavia, her sister, was buried next to her. And so they rest altogether - Bill, Flavia, and Nina - in the great beyond and in our hearts. Deepest gratitude is extended to all the support rendered by Bryan-Lee and DeCarbo funeral homes as well as Castleview and Oakwood cemeteries. All their diligence and compassion enabled this peaceful and everlasting transition. The colonel would say, “Mission accomplished!” A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com