Joyce Eileen Espelien was born on April 24, 1938, to Clarence and Ethel (Orstad) Espelien. She graduated from WCAS in 1956. Following graduation, she began her career with Polar Telephone. Joyce married Paul Torgerson on May 21, 1960. They had 2 children, Larry & Patty. Joyce’s career spanned 37 years, retiring as executive secretary at Polar Communications in 1993.
Following retirement, she enjoyed her grandchildren’s activities and sporting events and caring for her family farm, near Fordville. She was an active member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, WELCA and DECCA Club. Paul & Joyce’s 4th of July picnics, “Rice Krispies” and birthday angel food cakes will be remembered by many.
Joyce moved to the Good Samaritan Center in September 2021, following a stroke.
Joyce is survived by her husband Paul; son Larry Torgerson, Fargo ND; daughter Patty Eidenschink, Park River ND; four grandchildren: Jessica (Sean) Gamlin, Brian (Kelsie) Torgerson, Melissa (Jack) Best and Jordan (Madison) Eidenschink; ten great-grandchildren: Chase, Harper, Ava, Sunny, Esme’, Rowan, Emmet, Otis, Declan and baby Gamlin, due in November.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Orvin Espelien and son-in-law Michael Eidenschink.
Memorial services will be Friday, August 12, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Park River, ND. Visitation will be Friday for one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, Park River, ND.