Dennis Craig Torrey

Dennis Craig Torrey was born May 28, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His parents were Fred Torrey and Beatrice Martinson Torrey; he was raised in Madison, MN. Denny graduated from Madison High School and went on to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his superior service. After his military service, Denny attended Southwest Minnesota State, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree. He then moved to Worthington, Minnesota, and worked for Nobles County Family Services as a Case Worker for 31 years, assisting countless families in finding solutions for elderly care. Denny married Judith Jasken in 1976. To this union, a son, Nathan, was born. Nathan was Denny's only son and he was so proud to be his father. Although Denny and Judy later divorced, they worked together to raise Nathan in a positive, loving environment. After retirement in 2006, Denny moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. His hobbies throughout his life included tennis, golf, photography and reading. His books were among his most treasured possessions. He also loved sailing, having had partial ownership in a sailboat during his service years in Hawaii. He enjoyed a good cigar and a single malt scotch once in a while. He also treasured family gatherings at Bay Lake, Minnesota, with his cousins and relatives. Denny moved to Venice, Florida, in 2010 with his companion, Sara Burnette. Denny loved being able to spend time outdoors all year long. He enjoyed the beautiful beaches, the wildlife (especially birds), and the delicious seafood. He became a pet sitter and was lucky enough to take care of others' furry friends, just as he had cared for his own Irish Setter named Shamrock. He felt so fortunate to live out his later years in paradise. Denny was invaluable in helping Sara battle, and triumph over, two different cancers during their time together. Each time she had a chemo treatment he brought her a dozen roses to cheer her up! Denny is survived by his son, Nathan, his special friend, Sara Burnette, her daughter, Kelsey Burnette, and many cousins and longtime friends, including his best friend of 65 years, Butch (Terry) Kleven. His parents, Fred and Bea Torrey, and his grandparents predeceased him. A memorial service will be held at a future date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul, MN, where Denny's remains will be inurned.