Norene M. Torkildsen, 85, of Milford, PA passed away, Friday, June 16, 2023 at home surrounded by family.
The daughter of the late Joseph and Anna (Finnety) Knobloch, she was born Dec. 23, 1937 in Brooklyn, NY. She was married to the love of her life for 50 years, the late Bernt Torkildsen.
Norene leaves behind three daughters: Katherine Gnagey and her husband, Robert; Elizabeth Torkildsen; Linda Shannon and her husband, Michael; son, Stephan Torkildsen and his wife, Sonya; predeceased by two sons, Michael and Brian. She was a grandmother of 12 and great grandmother “GG” of 22.
Norene was a bus driver for 18 years for The Pike County Developmental Center in Milford, PA. She provided respite services, volunteered at Special Olympic events and PCDC Fundraisers. Norene dedicated her life to her family and her job. Our mom, our grandmother, our “GG” – strong, compassionate, caring, giving, welcoming arms, courageous, loving, nurturing, witty, feisty, spunky, respected, determined, great sense of humor, could tell a good story. Favorites – her precious dog “Mika,” vacations at Shawnee, trips to AC with family, camping at Beaverkill & Allaire State Park, Myrtle Beach in the off season, family parties, Christmas Eve Norwegian style at her house, Norwegian Day parades in Brooklyn, NY. Hobbies – scratch offs, cooking (known for her famous quiches, chili, chicken cutlets, Norwegian pancakes & meatballs), word search/crossword puzzles, watching channel 58 & debating, Hallmark movies, crime shows, game shows. Favorite movie – “Mystic Pizza.”
Our mom, our grandmother, our “GG”....a beautiful soul, a heart of pure gold, may you WIN BIG and be at peace with daddy, Michael and Brian. We are forever grateful for the wonderful lives you have given us....we love you!
Burial took place in Milford Cemetery, Dingman Township, PA.
Memorial donations may be made to The Pike County Developmental Center at 107 West Ann St., Milford, PA 18337.
Arrangements by Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford St., Milford, PA (www.stroyanfuneralhome.com).