Judith "Judy" A. Torgerson

Judith A. Torgerson “Judy,” 81, Retired, died Friday, April 7, 2023 in Wichita, Kansas.Judy was born in Williston, North Dakota on February 11, 1942. Her father was a dentist and her mother was a social worker. She graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, where she completed a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1964. Concordia was also where she met her future husband Richard Torgerson “Rick.” They were married August 9, 1964 in Williston, ND. Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Rick Torgerson; parents, Lawrence and Geneva Carlson; sister, Linda Carlson; brother, Lawrence D. (Winifred) Carlson. She is survived by her sons, Brennan (Kristie) Torgerson of Hutchinson, KS, Korey (Deana) Torgerson of Andover, KS; grandchildren, Trevor (Helen), Taryn, Quinn, Drew, and Cole Torgerson; great-granddaughter, Ella Torgerson; brother, Lynn Carlson; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Judy began her career in elementary education in the state of Washington as her husband Rick was working on his doctorate degree. She positively impacted many young people in Washington, Texas, Kansas, and Iowa. As Rick continued his path in higher education, Judy transitioned to positions on the campuses of Bethany College, Wartburg College, Gustavus Adolphus College, and Luther College where she assisted college students reaching their goals. Judy’s last and most heartfelt professional calling was being the first lady of Luther College. Rick and Judy were a dynamic team as they led Luther College for 14 years. Judy was very active and fiercely independent. She loved exercising, shopping, reading, and traveling. She could always be found with a Starbuck’s coffee, hot or cold! Her favorites were salmon, a glass of Chardonnay and stealing other people’s french fries. She spent many hours on the golf course, in a gym, and on ball fields cheering on her grandkids. A year ago, she became a great-grandma; a role she embraced and loved very much. A celebration of life is planned for Monday, May 1, 2023, at 11:00 am at Normandale Lutheran Church in Edina, Minnesota.In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with Normandale Lutheran Church, 6100 Normandale Rd., Edina, MN 55436; and Luther College Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies, 100 College Dr., Decorah, IA 52101.Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.