Russell Torney

Russell Donald Torney was born on March 22, 1936, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, the son of Arthur and Marie Torney. Russ was baptized at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Sleepy Eye. In 1946, he moved to Elk Horn, Iowa, where he lived with his brother Bob and sisters: Janice and Dianne at the Elim Lutheran Children's Home. Russ was confirmed into the Christian faith at Elim Lutheran Church. In 1951, he moved to Clara City. Russ attended school in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, Elk Horn, Iowa and Clara City. He worked on several farms in the area before serving his country in the United States Army in 1958. He was stationed for one year in Germany. Russ was honorably discharged in November of 1960. He returned to Clara City, where he worked for the Clara City Department of Public Works until his retirement. Russ was a member of the American Legion Post #485 and a volunteer fireman for the Clara City Fire Department. He enjoyed taking fishing trips with friends and family. Russ will be remembered for his hard work, quiet gentle spirit, love of family and friends and for his cat, Sammy. He will be sadly missed by his brothers: James Torney of Wichita, Kansas and Bob (Marlene) Torney of Spicer; sisters: Jancie Torney of Flagstaff, Arizona and Dianne (David) Chamberlain of Rochester, Minnesota; brother-in-law Marlyn Hengel of Wichita, Kansas; and also many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Joan Hengel, nephews: Jeff and Jay Torney; and sisters-in-law: Lila and Ruth Torney.