Marsha K. Torgeson

Marsha K. Torgeson, 74, of Topeka, passed away Sunday, March 8, 2026.

She was born May 13, 1951, in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Fred and Jane (Alstrom) Reust. She was a 1969 graduate of Washburn Rural High School, and received a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Washburn University.

Marsha married Samuel L. “Sam” Torgeson on November 26, 1971 in Topeka. Following their marriage, Sam started his small business Torgeson Electric Company. Marsha assisted with the family business for a short time.

Marsha, a beacon of strength and compassion, dedicated her life to uplifting others and nurturing the bonds of family and friendship. From the early 1970s until 2001, she served as a store manager and part-owner alongside her siblings at her father’s Topeka Travel Plaza on 12th and Wanamaker in Topeka.

In her later years, Marsha transitioned into a profound role as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor for Sims-Kemper Treatment Center in Topeka. Later her and her husband moved to the serene landscapes of Sedona, Arizona. It was here that Marsha devoted herself to the mission that fueled her spirit: guiding women on their paths to sobriety. Her unwavering belief in the power of recovery became her life’s purpose, as she tirelessly worked to help others discover the joy and possibility of a life free from addiction.

Marsha's own remarkable journey of sobriety spanned 37 years, a testament to her resilience and determination. This journey was not just a personal achievement for her; it became a gift she shared with countless individuals as she sponsored friends in recovery, instilling in them hope and the understanding that a brighter life awaited.

She also supported her husband, Sam Torgeson and their family, who owned and operated Torgeson Electric, Inc.

She was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon in Topeka and Arizona.

Survivors include her daughter, Jennifer and her husband, Jim Adkins of Topeka; her granddaughter, Katie Adkins and Shaolin Love of Topeka; her sister Jan Nichols of Topeka; her brother, Rick Reust of Prescott, AZ; and her daughter-in-law, Joy Bishop of Topeka and her two sons, Cason Cropp and Ian Cropp.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sam Torgeson on July 4, 2015; her son, Matthew Lee Torgeson on November 28, 2019; and her brother, Ron Reust.

Marsha’s other enjoyments in life were reading, dancing, arts and crafts including stain glass, scrap booking and other crafts, caring for horses and dogs, attending rodeos, as well as 70’s music.

Another greatest joy was her granddaughter Katie, who was the light of her life.

Honoring her request, cremation is planned. The family will receive friends beginning at 5:00 p.m., Friday, April 10, 2026 at Dove Cremations and Funerals, Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS, with a celebration of life memorial ceremony at 6:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Zoo 635 SW Gage Blvd. Topeka, KS 66606.

To share a memory of Marsha or leave a special message for her family, visit the guestbook below.