TORRIE - It is with deep sadness that the family of Ronald "Ron" John Torrie announce his passing on Thursday, August 3, 2017. He was 67 years of age. Ron was born on October 14, 1949 in Yorkton, SK, the eldest son of William and Alma Torrie. Ron spent his early years on the family farm and went to Grahame and Saltcoats Schools. Later, attending university in Saskatoon and Calgary, he earned his Bachelor of Education degree. While in Calgary, he met Delores Laughlin and they were married on July 3, 1971. They raised three children; Dana, Vaughan and Rae. Ron enjoyed his work life. His early days on the farm inspired him to pursue this way of life after his time in Calgary. The winters provided the opportunity for Ron to begin a work life outside of farming at Parker Quine, an accounting firm in Yorkton. After farming, Ron worked at Penn-Truss Mfg. while continuing his accounting work. Recently, Parker Quine became Collins Barrow where Ron worked up until his death, serving more than 40 years with the same company and forging many long-lasting relationships along the way. Work was a big part of Ron's life but the most enjoyment came from family. Ron and Delores raised their three children in Saltcoats, SK and were involved in and supportive of all their activities; academic, sports, or otherwise. Hockey arenas, baseball fields, band concerts and school events were just some of the venues where Ron could be found throughout the years. More recently, spending time with seven wonderful grandchildren became a favourite pastime for Ron. The energetic nature of the grandchildren kept Ron young at heart and created many lasting memories which are sure to be cherished. Ron loved conversation and enjoyed learning of the little details of the lives of his family members and coworkers. His quick wit provided much laughter in his ability to find humour in most ordinary everyday situations. He had a special connection with nature and found a great deal of pleasure from identifying and researching different bird, animal and plant species. With his coveralls and gloves never far from sight, Ron was not afraid of work. Jobs around the yard and house or helping family out with any project, large or small, was part of his routine. Simple pleasures such as stopping for ice cream or spending a day at the beach were highlights for Ron as long as he was spending time with those he loved. Ron was predeceased by his parents, William and Alma (Dietrich) Torrie. He will be loved and remembered by his wife of 46 years, Delores; daughter, Dana (Mark) Kostelnyk and their children (Tristan, Isabella and Mykhaela) of Saltcoats, SK; son, Vaughan (Amber) and their children (Emery and Wren) of Calgary, AB; son, Rae (Kristin) and their children (Tyson and Gabrielle) of Regina, SK; brother, Randy (Bev) and sister, Joanne (Patrick) Gilbertson and their children (Alexis, Daniel and Morgan) as well as numerous other relatives and close friends. A Celebration of Ron's Life was held on Thursday, August 10, 2017 at the Saltcoats Community Hall in Saltcoats, SK with Fred Nicholson officiating. The organist, Ruth Datema, led the congregation in the singing of the hymns, "How Great Thou Art" and "Would You Bless Our Homes and Families". Words of eulogy and tribute were shared by Ron's daughter, Dana Kostelnyk, his friend, Arlan Maddaford and his sister, Joanne Gilbertson. Special music was provided by Linda Datema, Teresa Laycock and Carla Laycock who shared two selections, "Hallelujah" and "Jealous of the Angels". The piper, Ferne Katzberg, led the family out of the service. The cremation committal followed in the Saltcoats Town Cemetery with Tristan, Isabella and Mykhaela Kostelnyk, Emery and Wren Torrie and Tyson and Gabrielle Torrie serving as the urn bearers. Friends so wishing may forward their condolences to the family by visiting www.christiesfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Christie's Funeral Home & Crematorium, Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
