Marjorie Adele Torgerson

1938 - 2022

Marjorie Adele Torgerson, born July 12, 1938, passed peacefully surrounded by family on Aug. 29, 2022, at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska. Part of the original "59er's" car caravan, she came to the Kenai Peninsula from Drummond Island, Michigan. She made her life on her homestead on Reflection Lake.

Marjorie was a true pioneer and matriarch of an extended Alaskan family. She is loved by her husband of over forty-five years, John Torgerson; daughters Cheryl Ess (spouse Charlie), Susan Wills (deceased), Cindy Hamilton (spouse Steve), Laurie Lovett (spouse Michael); son, Eric Wills; grandchildren, Lindsey Ess, Clarence Ess, Leila Kimbrell (spouse Shaun Tygart), Jolene Lehmann, Marisa Jimenez (spouse Joseph), Zara Fucci, Levi Lounsbury, Seeri Lathe (spouse Dylan), Wren Lovett, Blake Wills and Brooke Wills; many great grandchildren and other family and friends.

Her life spanned many uniquely Alaskan experiences: commercial fishing, law enforcement, responding to moose kills on the highway, the restaurant industry and small business owner many times over. Together, she and John successfully owned two Radio Shack franchises in Kenai and Soldotna. Marjorie was supportive of John's political career, was an active member in the community and volunteered for many charitable causes. She enjoyed serving on the local Hospice and Heritage Place boards; supporting many unable to advocate for themselves, including victims of domestic violence and caring for many foster children. She was very proud of her recognition as Volunteer of the Year in 1998.

An avid walker, lover of nature, children and animals, the homestead life served Marjorie well. At her request, no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you go for a long nature walk in her honor and enjoy the time you have with your loved ones.