Alton Torske, 81, died Friday, January 20, 2006 at McIntosh Manor Nursing Home, McIntosh, MN.

Alton Tilmer Torske was born in Garnes Township on the home farm, July 30, 1924, the son of Henry and Inga (Warstad) Torske. He was baptized and confirmed at the Salem Lutheran Church. He attended country school in Garnes Township through the 8th grade. Alton then attended High School in Oklee, where he graduated Valedictorian of his class in 1943.

In January of 1944, he entered the United States Army. After basic training, Alton received 6 weeks Auto Mechanic training at Camp Claiborne, LA. He was assigned to the 1498 Engineer Utility Company in the Asiatic Pacific Theater, where he inspected and performed first and second echelon maintenance service and repair on gasoline powered military motor vehicles. He served overseas in New Caledonia. Alton was honorably discharged in April of 1946.

Alton then worked construction in Glasgow, MT and Tioga, ND. He then returned to the home farm and farmed until his retirement.

Alton was active in his community, serving many years on the Garnes Township board and also the Salem Church board. He was an avid reader, interested in history and his family heritage. He was a quiet, reserved man, who enjoyed time with his family, friends and neighbors. Alton never married.

Alton is survived by a sister, Lorina Vettleson, Oklee, MN; 5 nephews, Herbert (Janice) Vettleson Jr., Thief River Falls, MN, Louis (Linda) Vettleson, Thief River Falls, MN, Loren (Vicky) Vettleson, Trail, MN, Glen (Annette) Vettleson, Oklee, MN and Alan (Christine) Vettleson, Oklee, MN and 17 grand nephews and nieces.

Preceded in death by parents; aunts and uncles and brother-in-law, Herbert Vettleson Sr.