Hal Torgersen Obituary (1936 - 2018)

Hal Reuben Torgersen, 82, of New Harmony, Utah returned to his Heavenly Father Nov. 6, 2018. In the tradition of his father and grandfather, he left this earth in the outdoors while actively engaged in the work he loved.His parents, Opal and Reuben Torgersen, welcomed him on June 26, 1936 in Koosharem, Utah as the oldest of 7. Growing up he worked alongside his father in the mountains as a logger and sheepherder. He also enjoyed playing on the high school basketball and baseball teams as well as participating in track prior to attending Southern Utah University.While at the university Hal met his wife, Dorothy Prince of New Harmony. They were sealed on Sept. 10, 1955 in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints St. George Temple. Hal and Dorothy later moved their family to Los Angeles where Hal graduated from the University of Southern California Dental School. Following graduation, he served as a captain at Beale Air Force Base in California.Known for his gentle and compassionate chairside manner, Hal had a successful dental practice in Simi Valley, Calif.Hal was a hardworking family man who served many people. He loved reading, sports and serving alongside friends and family in his church congregation and community.Hal was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and fulfilled many callings including a bishop and a stake president although his most treasured calling was that of a home teacher. Following his retirement from dentistry Hal and Dorothy served a mission in Providence, Rhode Island prior to settling in New Harmony.Hal is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy, children Teri (Scott) Lybbert, Kay (Rodger) Graham, Trent (Gina) Torgersen, DeAnn (Paul) Carter, Ron (Danielle) Torgersen and Laura (Chad) Wright, 6 siblings, 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.A viewing will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building in New Harmony on Monday November 12, 2018 from 6-8 p.m. and again on Tuesday November 13, 2018 at the Church from 9:30-10:30 a.m. with the funeral service following at 11 a.m. Internment will take place at the New Harmony Cemetery under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary.