Rex Veroughn Torgenson

Rex Veroughn Torgenson, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 19, 2026. He was born November 3, 1931, in Salina, Utah, to Arvin V. and Chloeen Torgenson. Rex married his sweetheart, Renee Poulson, on February 20, 1950, beginning a loving partnership that shaped his life and legacy.

Rex was raised in Salina, Utah, where he learned the value of hard work early in life. One year after marrying Renee, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served during the Korean War until 1955. After his military service, Rex and Renee moved to Layton, Utah, where they raised their family. Rex worked at Hill Air Force Base as a radome technician and was an active member of his community, including service with the Jaycees.

Family was always at the center of Rex’s life. He loved coaching his children, hunting and fishing on family camping trips, and making rugs. In 1987, Rex and Renee moved to Washington, Utah, where his creativity and generosity truly flourished. He was known for the most beautiful yard and a remarkable garden that produced the best tomatoes. Rex handcrafted incredible holiday decorations, made hundreds of sheets of peanut brittle to give away each Christmas, and sewed over 3,000 quilts. He loved irrigating and quickly became the neighborhood water master, earning recognition as an honorary leader in environmentally friendly efforts.

Despite his many talents and community involvement, Rex always made time for his family. He and Renee attended every event—keeping score at ball games, cheering at performances, teaching skills, and helping with any project that arose. As he grew older, Rex joyfully embraced new hobbies, including coloring, word searches, and countless diamond art projects. His generosity knew no bounds, and he touched countless lives through his selflessness, kindness, and strength.

Rex’s legacy lives on in the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the countless acts of service he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He is survived by his children: Amy Torgenson; Fernando (Karen) Torgenson; Eugene Valdez; Marie Torgenson; and Rita (Tom) Leeman. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Malachi Nelson; Gina (Tony) Altenes; Marcus (Sara) Torgenson; Teresa (Ryan) Guthmiller; John Torgenson; Tori Anne (Jon) Jensen; and Jessie (Kevin) Newman; as well as 10 great-grandchildren. He is survived by his sisters Marva Colby, Arva Lund, and Catherine Edwards. Rex was preceded in death by many loved ones including his wife, Renee.

Funeral services will be held on January 31, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Hughes Mortuary, 1037 E. 700 S., St. George, Utah 84790. Interment will take place at the Washington City Cemetery. Flowers are welcome. Arrangements are under the direction of Hughes Mortuary, 1037 E. 700 S., St. George, UT, 435-674-5000.