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Tod Thorsnes Obituary
Tod Thorsnes died peacefully on March 30th, 2007 in La Mesa, surrounded by family and friends. Tod was born in Portland, OR on December 14th, 1915. He grew up in Lake Elsinore and attended high school there. Tod was a talented athlete, receiving a scholarship to play football at the University of Washington. He married Claris Hall in Escondido in 1939. In 1942, Tod joined the U.S. Army and became a Master Sergeant during World War II. Tod and Claire had four children and eventually settled in La Mesa. Their family home was above the football field at Helix High and watching Friday night games was a tradition. Tod was General Foreman at the North Island Naval Air Station for 37 years, retiring in 1978. While his children were growing up, Tod owned and operated "Tod's Famous Waffles" at the Del Mar Fair. After retirement, he became an avid golfer. Tod and Claire were married for 58 years when she passed away, in 1997. Tod spent the last ten years closely connected to his children, enjoying travel and attending many sporting events with his sons. He was an avid Aztec fan and a member of "The Big Fifty." He also formed a deep friendship with his caregiver, Gene Martinson. Tod's passion in life was his children, and he was an amazing father. He leaves behind sons Michael, John (Sandy), Jeffrey (Anita), and daughter Nancy (Kim). He was also adored by seven grandchildren and 14 great- grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Tod was preceded in death by his brothers, Gordon and Kenny, and his parents, Hilda and John. Tod was a compassionate, charismatic and generous man. He left a legacy of humor, optimism and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed and honored by all who knew him. Services will be held at Erickson Anderson Chapel, 8390 Allison Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91941 on Tuesday, April 3rd at 12:00 p.m. A viewing will take place on Monday, April 2nd, between 3-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Tod's name to: Parkinson's Disease Association of San Diego, 8555 Aero Drive, San Diego, CA 92123. Please sign the guest book at obituaries.uniontrib.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Tod Thorsnes
Corina Thorsnes
March 27, 2024
Rest în peace, Tod! I only know you for a short time, yet was asks to grasp the kindness and gentleness of your soul. Being by your side with Nancy when you made the big jump to reuniting with Claire again was one of my most valued experiences.
Dottie Grace
April 11, 2007
I went to school with Nancy, and was in her home often, I will never forget her parents. They had a special twinkle in their eyes for each other that was so sweet.My heart goes out to all their family, friends and those who (like my self) they just touched breifly, but will remember. God Bless. Dottie Grace
Sherrill Sexton
April 10, 2007
Dear Jeff -- I am so sorry for the loss of your father. What an amazing, long, journey he had. My condolences go out to you & your family & I hope you are doing as well as expected.
Elizabeth Mars
April 9, 2007
I met Tod through the La Mesa Senior Center lunches. I volunteer there with my students and I always enjoyed talking to Tod. He was such a nice sweet man. I'm glad to have had him in my life for 3 years. I will miss him greatly.
Pam Chaffee
April 6, 2007
Although I only met Tod & Claire once about 20 years ago through Jeff, I found them to be an extremely nice and caring couple. I always thought about them when I occasionally drove by their home in La Mesa. My profound condolences to the family for their loss.
R.T. and Ina Denny
April 3, 2007
Our condolences to your family. We are friends of Jeff. He played fiddle with our Bluegrass band years ago. I know you all will miss Tod as he sounds like he was well loved. You are all in our prayers.
Gail Hayden
April 2, 2007
Losing a loved one is very difficult. I worked for your father and he was a wonderful man. My heart goes out to all of Tod's family; I will keep him in my prayers.
Michael Tod Thorsnes
April 1, 2007
NOTHING LESS
From a man of strength,
children of strength.
By his example,
lessons of
loyalty,
honesty,
work.
He is today gone,
but his lessons
survive,
burnt in our memory,
our character,
compelling for us
the high road.
His example such
that we can do
nothing less.
Buzz Hattersley
April 1, 2007
I was fortunate to have worked for Tod at North Island from 1974 until his retirement. I always looked upon him as a mentor and valued his opinions and insights. He was always a true gentlemen and a great boss. I obviously have many valued memories of him. I truly am sorry for your loss.
MJ Mellish
April 1, 2007
Mike, Our condolences to you and your family on your father's passing. He must have been a real inspiration to all of you.
El Camino Memorial Erickson-Anderson Chapel
March 31, 2007
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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