1928 – 2024
Salina, Utah – Richard J. (Dick) Sorensen, age 96, passed away November 16, 2024, at his home in Salina.
He was born September 28, 1928, “over the river” by Aurora, to parents Guy and Phoebe (Dickie) Sorensen. Ten years later his sister, Gyann, was born. He married Ella Joyce Andersen on October 14, 1949. Together they had five children, Terry Lynn, Sandra, Melree, James and Jeffery. They enjoyed years of camping, fishing at Lake Powell, hunting, horse races and attending school activities watching their children and grandchildren.
Our dad first owned a service station in Salina, and then became a carpenter for Valley Builders. After a few years he started working for Sorensen Electric and became a journeyman electrician.
He was a member of the Jaycees and a volunteer fireman for many years. He also had the honor of being the Grand Marshall in the Salina 4th of July Parade in 2022.
In 1988 our mother, Joyce, passed away. He married LaDawn Okerlund Wind. They were later divorced.
Dad reunited with a friend from years ago, Gladys Gill Perry, and they became companions for 13 years, traveling, camping, and going to horse races. She passed away November 3, 2006.
Dad loved to help his neighbors, and he loved the treats he received in return.
He is survived by his children: Sandra Petersen, Melree (Val) Frye, James (Julie) Sorensen, and Jeffery (Debbie) Sorensen; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Also, survived by Ferral Huntsman, a brother-in-law; and Gladys Perry’s children, Robyn Mecham, Dan Perry and their children and grandchildren.
Preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joyce; his sister, Gyann Huntsman; his daughter Terry Lynn; and his beloved, faithful companion, Roscoe.
The family would like to thank Debbie Sorensen for her loving care of our dad in his later years.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 12:00 Noon in the Salina Eastside Cemetery. Friends may call for viewing at the Springer Turner Funeral Home in Salina, Saturday morning from 10:00 to 11:30 prior to the services.
Burial will be in the Eastside Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com
