Virginia M. Torstenson

Waukee

Surrounded by her loving family, Virginia Torstenson, 89, passed away Monday, May 31, 2010 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. A Memorial service will be held at McLaren’s Funeral Home in West Des Moines on Friday at 11 a.m. with burial at Resthaven Cemetery.

Virginia was born June 28, 1920 in Des Moines to Earl and Edith (Thompson) Thomas. She lived in the Des Moines area all her life and graduated from Lincoln High School. Virginia was an active member for 50-plus years at Cottage Grove Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines and in later years, she attended or joined various churches nearer her home. She was also a 50 plus year member of The King’s Daughters and Sons and belonged to the Mariners.

Virginia spent time outside of her homemaking career volunteering for various organizations, including the Botanical Center and Living History Farms. She served in various capacities on committees and councils at Pointe West apartments in WDM and at Legacy Pointe Assisted Living. She enjoyed playing cards, sewing, decorating, entertaining, traveling, and keeping ‘Eldie’ busy on various projects in their home or others’ homes. Most of all she deeply loved her family and cherished hosting or attending family gatherings.

Virginia is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Elden Tomas Torstenson. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration for all. Other survivors include her brother, Ollie Thomas (Evelyn) of Duyallup, WA.; daughter, Sharon Baker (Doug) of Des Moines; two sons, Tom (Susan Evers) of Adel and Ted (Tammy) of Waukee; 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday prior to the service at McLaren’s. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be made at mclarenresthavenchapel.com.