Agnes M. Sorenson, age 99, of Town of Somers, passed away on Friday November 18, 2011 at Wheaton Franciscan Hospice of Racine.She was born on June 3, 1912 in the Town of Somers, a daughter of the late Willum C. and Ane Marie (Christensen) Pallesen.She attended all eight grades in one-room schools,, Washington Jr. High School and the new Kenosha High School. After one year at Racine-Kenosha Rural Normal School, she began her teaching career at Twin Oaks School in Brighton and Walker School in Bristol Townships. Changing careers, she spent a year at Trenary’s College of Commerce, and then worked as purchasing secretary at MacWhyte Co.On November 20, 1937, she married George R. Sorenson. They built a home on the Sorenson farm where George farmed and also did carpentry and had a trucking business. Agnes kept the books as partner. They started a family, and enjoyed a warm and lively life filled with family, friends, work and music.On June 5, 1945, tragedy struck. George was killed in a truck/train accident. Agnes bore up bravely, raising three children alone. She returned to her teaching career, first at Berryville, then Somers School. She was proud that she earned her BA Ed at Whitewater in 1966 after years of night and summer school.After retiring in 1975, she continued learning, becoming fluent in Danish visiting Denmark often. During her summer breaks she traveled with friends to Alaska, the Rockies, Arizona, New Orleans, Canada, Israel and Europe. She was an active member of AAUW, Kenosha Retired Teachers, and Somers Community Church. She participated in a current affairs discussion group, an investment club and a book club into her nineties.She is survived by daughter Sandra (Gene) Halmo, sons George R. (Terry), Somers, and Spencer (Ingelise) of Lyngby, Denmark,six grandchildren; Brenda Halmo Tudor, Elkhart, IN, Monica Halmo Gajdel, Deerfield, IL, Jill Sorenson Green, Wheaton, IL, Lynn Sorenson Widhalm, McHenry, IL , Hans A. Pedersen and George C. Sorenson, Lyngby, Denmark, six great-grandchildren and special friend, Karen McKenzie.She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Albert C. and George P. Pallesen.The family wishes to thank the staff of Wynwood Assisted Living and Wheaton Franciscan Hospice for their care and support.A visitation will be held on Monday November 21, 2011 at the Somers Community Church from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be held at Oakwood Cemetery.Memorials may be given to Bradford Alumni Association Scholarship Fund or Oakwood Cemetery.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th St. Ph: 262 654-3533 Visit Agnes Online Memorial Book At:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Bill Mercer
April 6, 2012
I was fortunate to have "Mrs. Sorenson" for my sixth grade teacher. A friend asked me today who was my favorite teacher. Without hesitation, I said Mrs. Sorenson. For some reason I was drawn to the Kenosha website and I typed in her name. Sad to say I found out that my favorite teacher was gone. A few years ago I called to let her know how much I thought of her. I am a retired educator and she was the role model for excellence in teaching that I tried to emulate. I am sorry for the loss to all the family and friends of Mrs. Sorenson. She was a fair, friendly, and firm teacher. I was in her sixth grade class in 1960. I will always remember her. God Bless You!
Georgianne Sampson
November 21, 2011
Dear George, Terry and family,Blessings and Peace to you and yours. Your Mom was a great lady and I'm sure loved by many more that you can count. She was the best 6th grade teacher I ever had, and she will live in my memories always. Like they say, "There is nothing like a DANE". Love and prayers, Georgianne and Jack Sampson
Gordon LaCombe
November 21, 2011
I am sorry that I am unable to express my condolences in person.We each had mothers who,with their many years of teaching, have left behind many memories, some with people you might never meet. After all these years, I am still asked if my mother taught at ---------school back in ----. I expect the same will happen with you. It's a good feeling and quite a tribute. Best wishesGordon LaCombe
Norma S. Rukavina
November 21, 2011
Dear Sandy and family: So Sorry to learn of your mother's passing. You must be very proud of the accomplishments and richness of her life. I am not able to attend the service, but will be thinking of you and extend my thoughts and prayers to all of you. Sincerely, Norma Rukavina
Louie and Jan Panasewicz
November 20, 2011
Dear George and Family, Our memories of Agnes are of a lady who was strong, kind and reserved. Know that you and your family are in our prayers at this sad time. May your many fond memories of her,comfort you in the days ahead.
Diane (Davis) Hebert
November 20, 2011
So sad to read of Agnes passing. My Mom, Jeanette will be there waiting for you to have Christian Service! Agnes was always at Church with a smile and a Hello for everyone! I remember her and the other ladies of the Church helping in everything that went on! Farewell dear Lady!
Rebecca Guinn
November 20, 2011
Rest in peace are dear family friend. You will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. My kids Jon Jr. and Troy and I (Rebecca) and my mom ( Karen Mckenzie a dear friend of Agnes) their nana will greatly miss visiting her and spending time with her. We loved hearing her stories. Troy especially loved talking with her about the bird book and the lovely sounds of nature. Jon jr loved to hear the stories. We love you soo much Agnes !! We have lots of great memories. You never forgot about the kids and I on our birthdays and Christmas. You will always be on our mind and in our hearts.
Sarah Greenwood
November 20, 2011
My condolences to Mrs. Sorenson(what I grew up calling her) family. Was surprised to read about her passing. She was one that I thought would make it to 100. She never forgot my birthday. Always mailed me a card. I wished I would of visited her more often. She did get to met my son Joshua! I have a picture of her and him. I always remembered she like the "blue bird" of happiness. I still have a Better homes and Garden cookbook she gave me years ago for Christmas.(best cookbook I have) I have her gift tag still in the book! My she be at peace in a better peace. God Bless.
Ozzie & Joyce Sorensen
November 20, 2011
Dear George and family,We are truly sorry to read of your loss. Agnes was alway fun to visit with at the Bradford Alumni dinners. During this time of sadness, may your family find comfort in the sympathy expressed by your friends and loved ones. Extending our sincere sympathy and friendship.
Cyn Tolstyga
November 20, 2011
Agnes was a shining star whose light will live on in all our memories. She was always smiling and I loved listening to her talk about her life. I only met her once, but she left a memory that will last my lifetime, and she never forgot me once. My deepest sympathies go out to her family, and especially to Karen MacKenzie, her dear friend who spent countless hours at her side. Rest in Peace Sweet lady.
Kris Winzer Miller
November 19, 2011
To our dear friend and Berryville Teacher and colleague, Agnes and family. Your Berryville Teacher friends are happy to have spent your 98th and 99th Birthday with you and enjoyed all the wonderful stories about Somers and Berryville School. You were a joy to be with and to learn from. We love you as did your students. Much love to you Agnes, from your Berryville Family and friends.