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Esther Myrtle Thorsen
November 1920 January 2011
Thorsen E pic obii Low r

Esther Thorsen went home to be with the Lord on Jan. 28 in Turlock, at the age of 90.  The second of four children, Esther was born in Hennessey, Okla.  Her parents were Haskell and Myrtle Wells.  As a small child, she moved with her family to California, eventually settling in Hughson.  Esther attended Modesto Junior College, and worked at the Milk Producers, during World War II.  After the war, Esther married Rodney J.B. Thorsen, owner of Thorsen’s Plumbing, Inc., and moved to Turlock.

Esther’s calling in life was to be a Christian homemaker.  Along with her husband, Esther cared for and spiritually nurtured their four children: Judith Ann, Carl Rodney, Donald Arthur and Norman Joseph.  She was an active Christian, and faithfully attended the Turlock Free            Methodist Church.  Esther engaged in numerous educational and compassion ministries for the community as well as for missionary work.  She and her husband Rodney generously contributed their time and money to the ministries of the church.

Esther had many hobbies.  She loved to sew, quilt, cook, bake, paint (rosemaling), garden and travel.  Every summer Esther and Rodney travelled for vacation, often camping in Yosemite National Park.  For decades, the Thorsen clan camped in Yosemite, which functioned as an     annual family reunion.  As a couple, Esther and Rodney loved to travel throughout the United States and overseas, visiting more than 40 countries.

Esther was widowed in January 2005.  She is survived by her brother, Raymond Wells; and her children, Judy Enchelmayer of San Diego, Carl Thorsen of Turlock and Don Thorsen of Upland, Calif., and their families; Norman passed away in 2004.  Esther leaves behind eight grandchildren.  Her love and careful provisions have impacted countless people throughout her life, and our memory and appreciation of her will long serve as a role model.  She will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Arrangements are entrusted to Allen Mortuary. A Celebration of Life will be held for Esther Thorsen at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5 at the Turlock Free Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Third World Farmers Support Fund, C/O Turlock Free Methodist Church, 2006 E. Tuolumne Rd., Turlock, CA 95382.

Please leave memories at www.allenmortuary.com.