Donald Ivar Torstensen

Donald (Don) Ivar Torstensen, beloved husband for 61 years of Elvi Irene nee Franke, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday August 28, 2022. Don was a loving father to Eric, Karen (Randy), and Sondra (Colin); amazing grandfather to Kaitlynn, Riley, Miranda (Andrew), Graydon, Colton, Courtney, Isaac, Lauren; and great grandfather to Noah.

Born April 4, 1931 to Florence Emily Torstensen nee Brandt and Kristian Trygve Torstensen at the Calgary General Hospital. He grew up on the homestead in Offerdale during the Great Depression. Life was difficult for Don when he was growing up. He and his brother Eiler were responsible for the majority of the farm duties from a very young age. The early responsibilities provided Don with lifelong skills to repair and build anything, and face any challenges with confidence and calmness. After leaving the farm, Don worked building oil tanks, finishing and building houses, and building beautiful wooden boats. On more than one occasion he gave up his earnings to help his family on the farm.

Don first laid eyes on Elvi when she was playing her violin on stage at a dinner at the Swedish Vasa; he knew the moment he saw her she was the one for him. Don and Elvi married on June 24, 1961. They created a warm and loving home for their three children and a welcoming home for their many good friends. Don created a summer home for his family in Waskesiu. Eric, Karen and Sondra and all the grandchildren have fond memories of waterskiing, fishing, camp kitchen wiener roasts, golf and tennis at the lake. Both Karen and Sondra met their husbands in Waskesiu.

Don graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree in 1961 and went on to do his Masters degree. He worked for the Calgary Board of Education for many years teaching a variety of grades and as Industrial Arts Department Head. Everyone knew him for his ability to connect with students who were struggling. He was a Master Carpenter/Contractor and built and renovated many houses; also creating beautiful furniture for family and friends.

Don was an amazing athlete for many years playing hockey, baseball, badminton, tennis, and golf. When he was young he was invited to try out for both the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team and the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team. Don's passion for sports never ended. He loved to talk sports with his grandchildren and always had a word of advice to improve their performance. Don was a long-time member of both the Calgary Winter Club and The Glencoe/Glencoe Golf and Country Club. He was a lifetime honorary member of the Alberta Badminton Association where he served as President in the 1980's.

Don was a wonderful husband and father, and led his family by example. He will always be remembered for his enduring strength, wisdom and integrity. Our family will miss his loving presence, but we know he will be cheering us on in all our endeavours from above. Don was predeceased by his parents Florence Emily Torstensen nee Brandt and Kristian Trygve Torstensen; and his older sister Virginia (Peter) Kelly. He will be remembered by his younger brothers Eiler (Ruby), Conrad (Judy) and Vernon (Natalie), many nieces, nephews and good friends. The Service will be held at Kensington Commons Church, 2404 Kensington Road N.W. on Saturday, September 10th at 1:00 pm. The Service will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fjTgws3SN0. Interment was a private Graveside Service. In lieu of flowers donations will be put towards a memorial in Confederation Park through etransfer to [email protected].