October 6, 1930 – May 17, 2013

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our much loved Husband, Daddy, Grampy, Great-Grampy, and Brother – Vernon G. Torkelson. Vernon was born in Bend, OR, October 6, 1930, to Bert and Mary Torkelson. He passed away after a courageous battle against pneumonia surrounded by his family on May 17, 2013. He is survived by his Bride of 62-years – Betty; his children – Teresa, Tena with husband, Craig, and Traci with husband, Daniel; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two brothers – Don and Richard; and one sister- Annie. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers- Sid, Ligie, Clarence, and Vesper; his sister- Gladys; and daughter – Toni.

Vernon provided for his family through courage and strength of character by overcoming severe dyslexia and an early hearing loss to achieve many outstanding awards in his chosen field of salesmanship at Macs Chemical, Valvoline Oil, and Ashland Oil Company. In his tenure, Vernon was awarded Representative of the Year and Outstanding Oil Sales for his division along with numerous other achievements and recognitions. Vernon flourished in the field of sales due to his exuberant personality, sharp wit, and the kind words he had for everyone he encountered. Many of Vernon’s customers were lifelong friends who trusted and respected him. There were no strangers in Vernon’s life as everyone he encountered was met with his beautiful smile and warmth of heart.

As a husband, Vernon was very loving and always introduced his wife as his Bride – even after 62 years of marriage. As a Dad, Vernon taught his girls to be self-reliant and responsible. He was always there to encourage them to pursue their goals and was there to help anytime he was asked. As an inventor, Vernon intrigued family, friends, and, particularly, grandchildren with his many unique, and sometimes outrageous, creations born from his infamous garage.

Vernon G. Torkelson was greatly loved and will be sorely missed by many.

Visitation will be 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at Yarington’s Funeral Home, 10708 16th Avenue SE, Seattle, WA 98146, http://www.dignitymemorial.com/yaringtons

Funeral Service will be 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at Yaringto’9s Funeral Home. Graveside Service will follow at Riverton Crest Cemetery, 3400 S 140th Street, Tukwila, WA 98168

Additional Fellowship will follow at: Calvary Chapel South,317 4th Avenue South, Kent, WA 98032, www.ccskent.org