Leona Torkelson

Leona Maxine Torkelson, age 85, of Pequot Lakes passed away Tuesday, May 13 at Harmony House in Brainerd. She was born October 2, 1922 to Leo and Julia Hopke. She grew up in Bungo Township, attended Pine Forest School and Pine River High School, where she graduated as valedictorian of her class. She went on to Normal Training and taught school in a one room country schoolhouse for five years. She married Hjalmer Torkelson, her husband of 60 years. They made their home on a farm in rural Pequot Lakes. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a member of Kedron Lutheran Church, then Maple Hill Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday School, Bible School, and was very active in the women's work at the church. Later, she became a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, where she continued to work as long as she was able to do so. She spent many years as a 4-H leader. She started her own home-based business as an income tax preparer. She made many life-long friends through her business. Friends were always welcome at her home for coffee and homemade goodies. Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, oil painting, cake decorating and her four grandchildren, who loved to spend time with her at her home. She will be remembered best working in her kitchen tirelessly, always staying informed on national and world events, her devotion and helpfulness to her husband and children, and her extraordinary love for her grandchildren.
She is survived by son, Marlin Torkelson (Kathy) of Pine River; daughters: Donna Torkelson of St. Paul, Janet Dempsie (Ted) of Olathe, KS, Joyce Bachman (Scott) of Baxter; grandchildren: Stacy Torkelson (Chris), Eric Torkelson, Shelley McConnell (Mark), Mike Dempsie (Jen); and great-grandchildren, Morgan and Mitchell.
She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
Services will be 11 AM on Saturday, May 24 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Pequot Lakes. Burial will be in Kedron Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, May 22 from 5 to 7 PM at Kline Funeral Home, Pequot Lakes, and one hour prior to the service at the church.