Max and His Family

Meet Max Torkelsen and His Family.

Max's Education

Bachelor of Arts in theology from Pacific Union College, 1972.

Master of Arts from Andrews University, 1974, with emphasis in church administration.

Master of Public Health from Loma Linda University, 1975, with emphasis in health education.

Max's Family

Max married Linnea (Blomquist) Torkelsen September 30, 1972.

Linnea is a registered nurse and also has a degree in elementary education. She is the Upper Columbia Academy alumni and development director.

They have two daughters:

Analisa is a registered nurse and Walla Walla University graduate, married to Brian Kleven, an electrical engineer in Hillsboro, Ore.

Kirsten is a graduate of Walla Walla University with a degree in communications, married to Ethan Spoo, the senior city planner for Oak Harbor, Wash.

Max's father, Max C. Torkelsen Sr., was the North Pacific Union Conference president from 1976–1980.

Max's Ministry

He has pastored in Oregon, Hawaii and Upper Columbia conferences. His ministerial internship was at the Springfield (Ore.) Church. Upon completing seminary, his first full pastorate was the Woodland and Cedar Creek district in the Oregon Conference.

Max's Hobbies

He enjoys photography, snow skiing, travel and reading.

Max's Favorite Quote

"Stay in the middle of the right side of the road."

—Max C. Torkelsen Sr.

Featured in: March 2009

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