John William Torkilsen III

John W. Torkilsen III passed away Tuesday July 30, 2024, at his residence with his wife by his side. He was born in Racine, September 15, 1945, son of the late John and Alice (Nee: Celmerowski) Torkilsen Jr.

John was a graduate of Park High School, “Class of 1963”. John served a four year apprenticeship with Local 430 IBEW for his Journeyman’s license. On November 2, 1973, he was united in marriage to Kathryn Fritz. He was employed by CNH for twenty plus years until his retirement in 2004. John was a member of Journey in Faith Church. John had a great love of traveling, music, playing his guitar, nature and wood carving. It was time spent with his family that he cherished most.

He was loved dearly and will be sadly missed by his wife, Kathy of 50 years; children, Hollie (Brian) Nelson, Aimee (Mark) Hooper, Elizabeth (Brian) Wolf; grandchildren, Evan and Marin Holle, Tyler (Samantha) Nelson, Jillian Dennis, Mason, Allison and Carson Wolf; sister, Jackie (Tony) Fabiano; brothers, Jeff (Diane) Torkilsen, Jay (Cheryl) Torkilsen, Joel (Vilena) Torkilsen; nieces, nephews other relatives and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two very special uncles, Steve Vallone, Eli Torkilsen and his nephew Eric Fabiano.

Funeral Services celebrating John’s life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, 12:00 pm at United Lutheran Church, 3825 Erie St., with Rev. Allison Johnson officiating. Relatives and friends are welcome to meet with the family for Visitation, Saturday, 10:30 until time of service at the church. The family invites everyone attending to wear red, white and blue in honor of John’s famous 4th of July celebrations. Memorials to Journey in Faith Church have been suggested.

A special thank you to Harmony Cares Hospice, especially Jenny and Denise for their loving and compassionate care.