Anne M. Torkelson

Anne M. Torkelson, 75, of Merrill, passed away Monday, January 8, 2024, at her home under the care of her family and hospice.

Anne was born May 17, 1948, in Racine, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Carl E. and Harriet (Hotvedt) Torkelson. As a child, Anne traveled the country due to her father’s career in the United States Air Force. Anne enjoyed spending her early adulthood in California. She spent 13 years in the Los Angeles and Simi Valley areas. She then resided in Rockford, Minnesota for 20 years. In California and Minnesota, Anne worked in I.T. and succeeded in a position where very few women were employed. While living out of state, Anne always enjoyed coming back to Merrill to visit family. Anne eventually moved back to Merrill and had spent the last 22 years in her hometown.

Anne was an amazing artist and had a business “Anne’s Hands.” She was talented in knitting, cross-stitch, and sewing. She made delicious cheesecakes, chocolates and other delicacies. Anne was a creative artist to the end. More recently she began working with wood; she enjoyed wood burning and wood carving.

Anne enjoyed her weekly Tuesday visits with her knitting group at Golden Harvest. On Mondays, Anne played ‘Hand and Foot’ card games at the Merrill Enrichment Center. Once a week, she would also meet with several women and play cards at their homes.

Anne was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Merrill. She was involved in the church choir and on the church board. Anne was strong in her faith. Anne was also a member of the Lion’s Club and the Merrill Historical Society.

Above all, Anne loved being a mother and grandmother. Anne was proud of her daughter and her grandchildren.

Survivors include her daughter, Jennifer Torkelson of Merrill; grandchildren, Jeremy, Josiah, and Jordan; brother, Carl Torkelson of Merrill; sister-in-law, Jean Torkelson of Marshfield; brother-in-law, Tim Silvers of Chaska, MN; and nieces and nephews, Ian Torkelson, Morgan (Angie) Torkelson, Kelly Silvers, Catherine Silvers, and Matt Torkelson. Anne was preceded in death by her parents, Carl E. and Harriet Torkelson; sister, Lois Silvers; brother, Dr. Erik Torkelson; and sister-in-law, Peggy Torkelson.

The memorial service for Anne Torkelson will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Merrill. Rev. Justin Smoot will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 A.M. Saturday at the church. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family.