Memorial

Roger Wayne Torson, 81, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on June 14, 2026, following a brief battle with esophageal cancer. His passing on Flag Day and the United States Army’s birthday was especially fitting for all who knew his deep patriotism and love of country.

Roger was born on November 22, 1944, to Virgil and Nona (Kerr) Torson. He grew up on a farm with a strong work ethic, a loyal heart, and a determined spirit that became part of his family’s story. His love of sports began early. A graduate of Valley High School in Elgin, Iowa, Roger was a standout athlete, earned Athlete of the Year honors, and still holds the school’s career basketball scoring record. He later attended Upper Iowa University, where he continued his athletic pursuits in baseball before being drafted to serve his country.

Roger proudly served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). During his service in Vietnam, he distinguished himself through courage, leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty. In recognition of his meritorious service, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge, along with several other military honors, including the Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge. Though Roger rarely spoke of his accomplishments, he believed serving his country was simply the right thing to do. His patriotism, humility, and strong sense of duty remained defining qualities throughout his life and were values he proudly passed on to his family.

After returning home in 1968, Roger married the love of his life, Janice Anderson. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, family, and hard work. He went on to dedicate 38 years to Quaker Oats, where his loyalty, strong work ethic, and lifelong friendships became an important part of his story before retiring in 2009.

Sports were a constant joy throughout Roger’s life. He especially loved football, baseball, and basketball, though he could happily watch just about any sport that was on. With a remarkable memory for sports statistics, he could recall players, scores, games, and records with ease. He enjoyed playing golf and was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees. During his years at Quaker Oats, he played on the fast-pitch softball team and umpired high school games, staying connected to the sports that brought him so much joy.

Roger found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: tending his garden, watching a good game, sharing a story, and spending time with the people he loved. His grandchildren will always remember him as the “candy and donut man,” ready with a sweet treat, a smile, and often a quick-witted remark. Whether he was talking sports, proudly supporting his children and grandchildren, or simply being present with family, Roger brought enthusiasm and humor to every moment.

Above all, he loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and proud supporter of those he loved. He leaves a legacy of faith, patriotism, strength, and loyalty.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Janice Torson; his children, Darin Torson of Marion, Iowa, Ryan Torson (Gina) of Center Point, Iowa, and Amber White of Fort Worth, Texas; grandchildren: Kayla Martinez (Daniel) of Omaha, Nebraska, Zachariah and Elijah Torson of Marion, Iowa; Clayton Torson (Lilly Schares) of North Liberty, Iowa, Connor and Camryn Torson of Center Point, Iowa; and Madelyn White (Cash Adams) of Dallas, Texas, and Georgia and Luke White of Fort Worth, Texas; his great-grandchildren, Ivy Martinez and Sunny Martinez of Omaha, Nebraska; his step-grandchildren, Jack Butteris (Tianna) of New Hartford, Iowa, Maisie Butteris of Ankeny, Iowa, Emily Butteris of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Cole Butteris of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Nona Torson, and his brothers, Mark, Donald, and Randy Torson.
Roger was a member of First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids and belonged to the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

A service honoring Roger’s life will be held Monday, June 22, at First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, with visitation from 9 to 10 a.m. and the service at 10 a.m. Committal with military honors will follow at Cedar Memorial. A luncheon will be held afterward at First Lutheran Church.

Memorial donations may be made in Roger’s honor to First Lutheran Church, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

Roger’s love of family, faith, country, and the strength of being “Torson Tough” will live on in all who loved him.

Forever in our hearts, forever “Torson Tough.”