James Torkelson

James “Jim” Harold Torkelson was born on January 23, 1941 in Alexandria, MN to Edwin and Fern (Wesen) Torkelson. He was baptized at First Evangelical Lutheran Church and grew up on Pocket Lake. In 1959, Jim, also known affectionately as “Tork”, was among the first class to graduate from Jefferson Senior High School in 1959. He loved sports, both spectating and participating, and played baseball for the “Forada Flashers” in his younger years. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was deployed overseas to Germany. After discharge from the Army, Jim worked as a welder for Williams Brothers Pipeline for decades before retiring around 1991. Following his retirement, Jim spent his days running the Lakeview Resort on Pocket Lake, hunting, and fishing. An avid traveler, Jim trekked across the world visiting destinations such as Costa Rica, Denmark, and Alaska. He was loved by everyone, had no enemies, and couldn’t go anywhere without being known or recognized by someone.

On Thursday, March 14, 2019 at the age of 78, Jim passed away at his home near Pocket Lake. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Janice Short, and nephew, Thomas “Jeff” Short.

Jim is survived by his nieces Donna Short and Tamara (Gordon) Schwarz; great-nephews, Gordon Schwarz and Zach (Jen) Zirbes, and many cousins and good friends.

Per Jim’s wishes, a private family interment with military honors will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home.