Jesse Stuart Torgerson, age 40, passed away on June 3, 2023.
Jesse was born in Mt. Vernon, Washington on November 13, 1982. He graduated
from Stanwood High School in 2001, and continued his education at the University of Washington receiving a BA degree in Law, Society, and Justice. A longtime resident of Ballard where he resonated with the beauty of the city along with the music, culture, and people.
During his career he advocated for justice for all supporting adults with disabilities to help them secure community employment and become contributing citizens.
Jesse's passions were music, good food, family and friends. A talented drummer Jesse played in a number of bands stretching from Seattle to Anacortes. In addition he loved golf, tennis and snowboarding. He loved Ballard and enjoyed watching the sunset over the Olympics from Golden Gardens.
Jesse is survived by his mother, Lindsay Gilbreath and spouse Will Varley, his father Stuart Torgerson and spouse Joanne Drewsen, sister Brianna and brother in law Ryan Garvie, and niece/nephew Leo and Nora, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins here in Washington, California, Texas and New York.
A celebration of Jesse's life will be held at 1 pm at Hillcrest Lodge in Mt. Vernon, Washington on Friday August 18, 2023. Children are welcome. Please RSVP to a family member.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted for the Stanwood Camano Area Scholarship in Jesse Torgerson's name. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior pursuing a career in music. Write "Jesse Torgerson Scholarship" in the memo line and include your contact info if you want to receive a receipt for tax purposes.
Mail to: Stanwood-Camano Area Foundation PO Box 1209 Stanwood, WA 98292
Jesse's family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to remember him and support us through this difficult time. We will all miss his laughter, bad jokes and loud music.