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1
HOUSE RESOLUTION

 
2    WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of 
3Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Kenneth 
4Torkelson, who passed away on April 9, 2023; and
 
5    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson was born in Chicago to his 
6loving parents, Ruby and Ken Torkelson, on November 7, 1940; 
7he was a distinguished graduate of the class of 1958 at Antioch 
8Community High School, where he exhibited academic excellence, 
9camaraderie, and a commitment to his community that would 
10become the cornerstone of his legacy; and
 
11    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson was an astute entrepreneur, who 
12established himself as a reputable owner and businessman of 
13The Car Store in Antioch, where he not only thrived 
14professionally but also fostered meaningful connections with 
15his clientele, leaving an indelible mark on the local business 
16landscape; and
 
17    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson's philanthropic spirit found a 
18home within the Antioch Lions Club, where he actively 
19contributed to numerous charitable initiatives, demonstrating 
20an unwavering dedication to the betterment of his community; 
21and
 
 
 
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1    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson embarked on a new chapter of 
2his life in 1990, relocating to California alongside his 
3devoted life partner of 34 years, Sharon "Sherry" Simmer, 
4forging a partnership that was grounded in love; and
 
5    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson was affectionately known as 
6"Tork" and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and 
7community service, which will be forever cherished by those 
8who had the honor of knowing him; and
 
9    WHEREAS, Kenneth Torkelson was preceded in death by his 
10beloved parents, Kenneth and Ruby Torkelson; and
 
11    WHEREAS, At the time of his passing, Kenneth Torkelson was 
12survived by his lifelong partner, Sharon Simmer; his devoted 
13children, Ken "Butch" (Wendi) Torkelson, Bob (Susan) 
14Torkelson, Tim (Colleen) Torkelson, Pat (Colleen) Torkelson, 
15and Annie (Geoff) Guttschow; numerous cherished grandchildren 
16and great-grandchildren; and his many friends; therefore, be 
17it
 
18    RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE 
19HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that 
20we mourn the passing of Kenneth Torkelson and extend our 
21sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew 
22and loved him; and be it further
 
 
 
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1    RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be 
2presented to the family of Kenneth Torkelson as an expression 
3of our deepest sympathy.