Carolyn Gay Torkelson

Carolyn Gay (Linder) Torkelson, age 77, of Crest Hill, passed peacefully on January 29^th, 2023 in Joliet at Lightways Hospice inpatient unit.

She was born on November 28^th, 1945 in Joliet, the daughter of late Frank H. Lindner and Hazel P. Lindner.  She was a lifelong resident of Joliet and graduated from Joliet Township High School in 1964.  She met her husband, David Torkelson, while working in the kitchen at St. Joseph’s Hospital.  They were married on June 10, 1967 at Hunter Avenue Lutheran Church.  She and her husband, David B. Torkelson raised two sons, Timothy, and Thomas.

Carolyn was steadfast and resolute in showing her love for God and family, praying for all of them through the years.  She belonged to Messiah Lutheran Church and was active for many years.  She started a puppet ministry at the church that ran for 9 years.

She completed an associate degree from Joliet Junior College.  She was a devoted mother and homemaker, including cooking and sewing.  Later in life she became an avid and accomplished card maker. In addition to making cards she loved to sew, often making outfits and costumes for her boys and then her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, David, and her two sons, Timothy of Huntley, IL and Thomas (Samantha) of Westmont, IL.  She has four grandchildren: Alan B. Torkelson, Elloise M. Torkelson, Isabella M. Torkelson, and Hana J. Torkelson.

She is preceded in death by both her parents Frank and Hazel Lindner, as well as her brother Robert C. Lindner.

She loved well and was well loved.  She will be sorely missed but we look forward to seeing her again in Paradise.  Celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, February 4^th at Messiah Lutheran Church, 40 Houbolt Rd., Joliet, IL 60431.  Visitation will be at 10:00 AM and service will begin at 11:00 AM. She will be interred at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Joliet IL.