Maryn Torkelson was born Maryn Wolff on September 8, 1938 to her parents Matthew and Hilda Wolff at the former Emmanuel Hospital in Turlock. For most of her childhood, Maryn grew up on a farm in Denair on Grayson Road raising mainly turkeys and almonds.
She attended Gratton Grammar School, Keyes Grammar School, and graduated from Turlock High School with the Class of 1956. The following year, on September 14, 1957, she married the love of her life James Frank Torkelson.
Throughout the years, Maryn enjoyed working for various school districts, especially Denair Unified, where she retired after decades of faithful service. She was also passionate about music, holding many fond memories of playing bassoon in the orchestra along with the piano, accordion, and singing in the choir. She loved playing music, spending time with her family and dear friends, and cooking food for her loved ones. No one ever left Maryn’s house hungry, or, in later years, without a piece of candy in their pocket.
Most importantly, Maryn loved the Lord above all else. With a servant’s heart, she joyfully used her gifts of hospitality and encouragement to share God’s love at church, Westside Ministries, bible study, in her own home, and everywhere else she went.
Maryn is survived by her husband, Jim; her daughters Charlyn Torkelson-Selee and DeeAnn Wilkey (Don) ; and her grandchildren, Jillian Bruton (Brad) and Michael Wilkey. Her legacy of loving the Lord and others deeply will live on in our hearts as we rest knowing Maryn’s soul is completely at peace in the arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father.
A celebration of Maryn’s life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Monte Vista Chapel 1619 E. Monte Vista Ave. in Turlock. Burial was private at Lakewood Memorial Park.
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