Earl Sorensen

Earl's first job was cleaning the streetlights of Portland. During WWII he was unable to enlist because of a heart problem, so he worked in the shipyards as an apprentice electrician helping build “baby flattops.” After graduating from Oregon State College (now OSU), he worked for Multnomah County, until he was hired as a property appraiser for Oregon Tax Commission in 1953.

Earl met the love of his life, Beverly Slovarp, on a blind date. After they married, he traveled around Oregon as a State Farm Appraiser. He was proud of having seen all 36 county courthouses during his 30 year career with the state. When home, he liked to tinker in his basement wood shop. He enjoyed getting the whole family involved in home projects such as pouring concrete, building fences, and even moving the garage. He also involved them in hunting, fishing, and camping. The McKenzie River and the family cabin in the coast range were always special to him.

In later years, Earl liked to visit what he called his “junk shops” and bring home obscure objects to baffle his family. He loved animals all his life, especially dogs.

Earl was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; parents Thorvald C.A. and Rigmor Karen Amalie (Nielsen) Sorensen; and his infant brother Segard Sorensen. He is survived by son Keith (Trina) Sorensen of Salem and their children, Kristian and Kallan; daughter Janell Sorensen (Bill Sullivan) of Eugene, Oregon; granddaughter Karen Sullivan of Australia; grandson Ian Sullivan (Guinevere Saenger) of Seattle, Washington and their son, Brendan Sullivan; and daughter Janice Sorensen (John Slagle) of Salem. He is also survived by four granddogs and his faithful dog Lady.

A Celebration of Life will be held for friends and family. For more information, please call (503) 362-5282. Arrangements by Howell-Edwards-Doerksen Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.HED-FH.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Willamette Humane Society.