Tommy Orville Torgeson

Tom Torgeson, 85, passed away on July 7, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by hard work, service, family, and a love of sports.

Born on June 3, 1941, Tom was raised in Skagit County, Washington. He grew up on his family's small dairy farm in Clear Lake, where his days began early, milking cows and pitching silage before heading off to school. Those early years instilled in him a strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

Tom attended Clear Lake Elementary School and graduated from Sedro-Woolley High School, where he was ASB president and participated in cross country, basketball, and track. He was also a member of FFA and showed cattle at the county fair. He continued his education at Skagit Valley Community College, earning an Associate of Arts degree.

In 1962, Tom enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country until 1965 and attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his military service, his competitive spirit shone through when he won a grueling 50-mile footrace while wearing combat boots; a feat he enjoyed recalling throughout his life.

Following his military service, Tom built a career centered on hard work and dedication. He was the proud owner and operator of Tom's Texaco in Sedro-Woolley from 1965 to 1969, during which time he enjoyed being part of the Skagit Speedway racing community as a race car sponsor. He made ice cream for over 32 years for Dairy Valley in Mount Vernon and Edaleen Dairy in Lynden before retiring in 2003.

Tom enjoyed farming and would spend his summers putting up and selling hay at his family's farm in Clear Lake. He loved old tractors and putting them to work.

Sports were one of Tom's lifelong passions. Whether playing or cheering from the sidelines, he loved competition. Tom spent many years as a respected softball umpire and deeply enjoyed the camaraderie with his fellow umpires. Later in life, he enjoyed participating in and traveling with a men’s softball league. He remained an enthusiastic sports fan throughout his life and rarely missed an opportunity to follow a game or talk about sports with friends and family.

Tom shared 39 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Carol. Together they made their home in Bellingham, creating a life filled with love, family, and lasting memories.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Carol; his mother, Bertha; his father, Carl; and his sister, Ruth.

He is survived by his son, Todd Torgeson and Todd's wife, Paula, of Sedro-Woolley; his son Eric Brostad, of Burlington; grandchildren Terrel Torgeson of Clear Lake, Taylor Hudson and her husband, Sam, of Clear Lake, Emma Torgeson of Bellingham, Ty Garcia and his wife, Alisa of Burlington; stepdaughters Kathy Donnelly and her husband, Mike, of Bellingham, and Wendy Pitsch and her late husband, Greg, of Ferndale; step grandchild Nora Donnelly and husband Scott, of Bellingham, Osaze Takamatsu of Dallas; and five great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, former coworkers, teammates, and fellow sports enthusiasts. Tom will be remembered as a devoted family man, proud veteran, and loyal friend.

Friends and family are invited to gather for fellowship and remembrance at 2:00 p.m. on August 21, 2026, at the Sedro-Woolley Community Center, following a private graveside service for Tom’s immediate family. Please join us to share memories, stories, and fellowship in Tom’s honor.

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