Marilyn Mallard Torgeson

Marilyn Mallard Torgeson entered her eternal home with Christ on June 25th at Bedford Wellness and Rehabilitation in Bedford, Texas.

Born on April 19, 1941, in Miami, Florida, to Frances and Milton (“Duck”) Mallard, Marilyn grew up in Marlin, Texas, as the eldest of five children. Known affectionately as “Mimi” to her siblings, she was a devoted big sister who lovingly shepherded her younger sisters to the movies and the park, taught them their letters and numbers, and delighted them with games and homemade plays—casting them in roles and dressing them in costumes of her own creation. Her joy and creativity brought light to those around her from an early age.

At age 12, Marilyn’s family moved to Bryan, Texas. She quickly made friends, her infectious laughter and quick wit endearing her to everyone she met. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1959 and earned a scholarship to Sam Houston State University. During her high school years, she joined the marching band as a twirler, eventually dazzling audiences as a Trick Twirler. Dressed in sequined costumes, she amazed crowds with her fire baton performances—eliciting gasps as she tossed it high into the air, twirled, and caught it with grace and flair.

Marilyn later attended the University of Houston and spent much of her life in Waco, where she worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs. After retiring from the VA, she married Philip Torgeson in 1999 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Throughout her life, Marilyn dreamed of returning to Marlin, Texas where she could enjoy a quieter life away from a big city and be closer to nature. She longed for space to reflect, write, and care for her animals—rescue work and encouraging others to rescue animals being one of her deepest passions.

Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family. She adored her three children and took immense pride in their every accomplishment. She especially cherished her time with her grandchildren. She was especially grateful to spend her last years of life closer to her children where she had frequent visits from her daughter, son and other family and friends. Her other lifelong passions included sewing, reading, writing, volunteering at the humane society, and always subscribing to being a life learner. Her vibrant personality, resilience and love for her family left an enduring mark on all who knew her.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phil Torgeson, and her precious daughter, Kelly "Zubik" Heitzman.

She is survived by her two devoted children, J. Frank Zubik and Cassandra "Zubik" Hedgpeth; her grandchildren Zoe Zubik, Cole Hedgpeth, Claire Hedgpeth and Clayton Hedgpeth; her great-grandchildren Layla Rayna and Lyla Hornbeck; her brother Milton Mallard; and her sisters Jackie "Mallard" Batten, Christine "Mallard" Earl, and Sarah "Mallard" Glazener.

A beautiful light has left this world. Marilyn—Mimi—will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her spark for life, indomitable spirit, and loving heart live on in the many lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Animal Humane Society, your local animal shelter, or another worthy cause in her memory.

Poem by: Mary Elizabeth Frye

Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.