Marciedene “Marcie” Sartor OBITUARY
Marcie Sartor was a well-known figure in the Ontario-Montclair School District for 40 years and deserves to be remembered. If you’ve read the book Goodbye Mr. Chips, you might recall how he referred to his former students as his children. Although Marcie never had kids of her own, she taught hundreds of students throughout her time in the Ontario-Montclair School District. This article aims to honor her remarkable career and ensure that her contributions are recognized by her colleagues, students, and their families, who became like family to her. Born on September 4, 1945, in a small town in Kansas, she graduated from Wichita State University with a fine arts degree. She was recruited to teach music in Ontario, California-a place she had never been before. Marcie quickly showcased impressive musical talent and teaching ability. As a professional clarinetist, she also played and taught other instruments like violin, saxophone, drums, trumpet, and trombone-everything needed for her fourth-grade through junior high classrooms. She was an exceptional educator; her middle school bands were top-notch and she excelled at teaching basic instrumental skills through the district’s fourth-grade song-flute program. After nearly four decades in education, it’s likely that half the families in the district had at least one person who learned from her at some point. Held in high regard by colleagues, students, and parents alike, it was only natural that she would conclude her lengthy career as the district music coordinator-a position she held until retiring. Alongside an excellent team of educators, Marcie helped establish one of the strongest music programs in California within the Ontario-Montclair district. Following retirement, Marcie wanted to keep engaging with music and decided to buy an electric bass guitar while taking lessons so she could play with local rock ‘n’ roll or pop bands-a significant shift from being a concert clarinetist. Apart from music, animals were another great love of Marcie’s life. She spent countless hours helping find homes for unwanted dogs and cats. Additionally, she became involved in breeding and showing long-haired dachshunds-her favorite breed since childhood-many of which earned championship titles. Her all-time favorite dog was a spirited little guy named “Basie,” who ranked 6th nationally at one point. She also raised beautiful French poodles. Even after retiring from teaching, Marcie kept up connections with a lively group of dog friends and former colleagues; however, memory issues gradually made it harder for her to stay connected with them. Funeral arrangements are not yet confirmed; if anyone wishes to send condolences or notes of remembrance can be sent to: Marcie Sartor at 1309 W. Ralston St., Ontario, CA 91762. All correspondence will be directed to those managing her estate. Instead of flowers or gifts, Marcie would have preferred any donations go toward supporting the Inland Valley Humane Society (https://ivhsspca. org/)) located in Pomona, California.Source link
