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2022/05/13 - Philadelphia, AEB

(Danjolell, Legacy.com-en argitara emana)

Carmen P. Sotorrio (nee Arizmendi) of Philadelphia, PA and later Paoli, PA, passed away peacefully at age 85 on May 13, 2022.

She is predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Pedro J. Sotorrio.

She was born in Matanzas, Cuba and fiercely proud of her Basque- Spaniard heritage.

Carmen, aka "Carmita" was an accomplished classically trained pianist, who in her youth received an invitation to study piano further at Julliard and to tour internationally given her tremendous talent.

She chose to stay close to her family and beloved Pedrito in Cuba and started her own conservatory of music where she joyfully dedicated her gift to teaching young children to learn the piano.

In 1961, fleeing the Castro regime, she traveled with her first-born child to join Pedro in the United States. Together, Carmita and Pedro raised their beautiful family in Philadelphia, PA.

Carmita was well known for her joy for life, humor and laughter, love of music, love of family, love of good food. She enjoyed many years of concerts and music, including one of her favorites, The Philly Pops led at that time by Peter Nero.

Carmita also helped run the office at her father and brother's business for several years. Later in her retirement, she returned to her beloved piano and served as Musical Director for the Spanish language Mass @ St Norbert's Parish

Carmita loved to talk to people. It was not uncommon that Carmita would meet and talk to a stranger she would befriend. Later in life, Carmita reveled in her time with her 4 grandchildren and attending their activities and events.

Survived by her children, Carmen (Wayne) Curry, P.J. (Judy) Sotorrio, Rosemarie (Scott Albright) Sotorrio, and 4 Grandchildren; Julia, Jeremy, Christian, and Mitchell; her brother Enrique "Kikin" (Clara) Arizmendi and her sisters Rosa (Raul) Fuentes and Irene (Erelido) Garcia.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing Wednesday Morning, May 18th 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Norbert's Church 30 Leopard Rd., Paoli, PA 19301. Interment Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery.

Goian Bego (GB) - May she Rest in Peace