James L Torkelson

James L. Torkelson, 70, of Great Falls, MT, a retired salesman, passed away Monday, March 30, 2015 from natural causes at the Missouri River Center nursing home in Great Falls, MT. A celebration of life will be scheduled and announced at a later date. O’Connor Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Jim was born February 16, 1945 in Jamestown, ND to Norris O. and Martha Torkelson. He graduated from Jamestown High School and entered the Army National Guard where he served for two years. James followed in the footsteps of his father and became a salesman for many years with Montgomery Ward & Co. Once Montgomery Ward went bankrupt he was employed at the Colorado Baggage Company in Arvada, CO. He traveled from place to place finding employment in each location including Hawaii, Arvada, CO, Richland, WA, and Great Falls. Jim was a confirmed bachelor which allowed him the freedom to roam. Jim’s favorite past time as a retiree was shopping for antiques and nick-knacks of which he had many. As a young lad in Jamestown, ND, he enjoyed roller skating and won several roller skating awards in speed skating and freestyle competitions in North Dakota and Minnesota. Jim was a likeable sort. He was very generous and caring. He will be missed by many. He is survived by his brother David Torkelson (Rosemary) of Ulm, MT; his sister Linda (Showalter) Michael of Spokane, WA; as well as several cousins, nephews, and nieces. Jim was preceded in death by his parents indicated above; and a sister, Sharon (Jaff).