Cleola Torgersen Obituary (1933 - 2014)

Cleola Hatch Torgersen passed away in Cedar City, Utah on December 16, 2014 surrounded by family and friends. Cleola was born in Koosharem, Utah on September 28, 1933 to John Henry and Irma Hatch who finally had a daughter after having six sons. The whole town of Koosharem celebrated and the men at the saw mill, where her father worked, were given the afternoon off. Cleola married Thad Torgersen on November 7, 1952 in the Manti LDS Temple. They had 62 wonderful inseparable years together. When Thad was in the Army, Cleola followed him to Monterey California and then to Frankfort Germany. They had many fond memories together, always respected each other, and remembered how to court and to flirt with one another. They were of one mind in raising their six children and in making major decisions. Cleola had a kind heart and always looked for the good in others. She was a person without guile. She was the same person regardless of the situation. Despite her many heath challenges in recent years no one recalls her complaining about her trials, even once. Cleola was an excellent cook and always welcomed the occasional visitor to her table. She wasted little and could make a tasty meal even when ingredients were scarce. She sewed clothing and dresses for every occasion where her five daughters were involved. She even sewed dresses for the girls' dolls. She was generous with her time and served in many church callings in the young women, primary, and relief society. Cleola is survived by her loving husband Thad and her six children Gloria Bratton (Richard), Dianne Hadlock (Rick), Stan Torgersen (Janet), Shari Oppenheimer (Kelly), Connie Harrison (Lyle), and Merilee Robinson (Mark); sixteen grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; and brothers Dee, Zane and Gordon Hatch. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 20 at 11am, at the Cedar City 15th Ward LDS Chapel, 500 West 400 North, Cedar City, Utah. Viewings will be held on Friday, December 19, from 6 to 8pm at Southern Utah Mortuary, 190 North 300 West, Cedar City, Utah and at the 15th Ward Chapel on Saturday from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. prior to funeral services. Interment will be at the Koosharem City Cemetery under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary.