Patricia L. Hallsten, spouse of the late Rev. Edwin Hallsten, passed away on May 24, 2024 in Naples, Florida. She was 91.
Patricia Louise Tornquist was born on August 4, 1933, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Leonard and H. Velora Tornquist. As the eldest of four children, Pat developed a lifelong love of ice skating and a reputation for speed in running races. To pay for her tuition at Minnehaha Academy, she worked part-time at a bakery and later at Dayton’s. An accomplished seamstress, she often made her own clothes.
During her first year at Minnehaha, Pat caught the attention of Edwin Ansgar Hallsten, and they soon had their first date. She graduated in 1951, and they were married on May 8, 1951, in Northwood, Iowa. Throughout 67 years of marriage, they celebrated the anniversary of that first date.
Pat served alongside Edwin at several churches, including Winthrop Covenant in Minnesota; Portage Park Covenant in Chicago; Church of the Master and Kirkwood Community Covenant in St. Louis; and First Covenant Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Throughout these years, Pat raised their children, organized many moves, and made each new house feel like home.
Pat volunteered in many capacities: as a camp counselor, co-leader of youth and counseling groups, and at marriage retreats. After her children were grown, she worked part-time in interior design. Her hobbies included reading, antiquing, furniture refinishing, sewing, and gardening. In her 80s, Pat learned to use an iPad to stay connected with family and friends, often sharing inspiring quotes at her assisted living apartment.
She was cherished as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Her family remembers her sense of humor, compassion, and timeless style.
Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin; son Rand Hallsten; granddaughter Rachel Parks; sons-in-law Steve Parks and James Eldridge; and her brother Richard “Dick” Tornquist (Kay). She is survived by her children, Dawn Hallsten (Don Mateer), Brent Hallsten (Terri), and Danielle Eldridge, as well as her daughter-in-law Karen Hallsten; 17 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and her brothers Lowell Tornquist (Barb) and Sheldon Tornquist.
Pat will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery beside Edwin.
Peace be to her memory.
