Jerry Torkkola 1934 – 2023

Jerry Arthur Torkkola was born October 11, 1934, in Menahga, Minnesota. He was the first born child of Arthur Torkkola and Shirley (Olson) Torkkola. Jerry was one of six children: Marvin, Stanley, Sharon, Douglas and Glennis.
Jerry worked hard on the family farm throughout his younger years and endured the brutal Minnesota winters while helping to support his family. While in high school, Jerry enjoyed playing football.
Jerry joined the United States Air Force in 1955. When he left for the military his little sister Glennis was in awe of him. He began his training as an airplane mechanic. He flew around the world while serving his country. He enjoyed weightlifting with his military buddies in his spare time.
Jerry met his wife, Cherry Kay Smith during a stop over in Florida. Cherry was a singer and a piano player at the time. Cherry originated from Rome, Georgia. The two were married in 1961. Jerry took a job at North Central Airlines. He and his wife built a house and settled into the town of Apple Valley, Minnesota. They had two daughters, Tanya and Kaia. While living in Apple Valley his family enjoyed snowmobiling during the winters. During the summer, Jerry had a large vegetable garden he cared for and enjoyed spending time with his family.
In 1978, Jerry took a new job as an inspector for Delta Airlines. He moved his family to Fayetteville, Georgia. During their time there, Jerry took his wife and kids on a trip to Europe. They toured Denmark and Sweden which was magical for everyone. Jerry enjoyed looking at new cars and trucks in his spare time. He loved nature and spending time caring for his yard and cutting firewood. Jerry was a dedicated, hard working husband and father.
Jerry’s wife, Cherry died of a sudden heart attack in 1999. The loss of his wife was devastating and changed his life forever.
Later, Jerry married Eunice Gibbs of Rome, Georgia. Jerry dedicated his life to Eunice.
Jerry died on October 4, 2023, at the age of 88. He is survived by his daughters, Tanya (Stan) and Kaia (Mark) and their two daughters, Ellie and Sara; his two sisters Sharon (Harry) and Glennis, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Jerry is at peace buried next to his wife Cherry in Fayetteville, Georgia.11-8