Violet Tortorici
June 27, 1935 - May 16, 2026
Obituary
COTTAGE GROVE - Violet E. Tortorici entered eternal life on May 16, 2026, at the age of 90. Surrounded by her loving family, our Lord and Savior welcomed another angel home. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, devotion, and unwavering love.
Born on June 27, 1935, in Madison, Wis., Violet was the daughter of Alan and Helen (Andersen) Hall. She graduated from Edgewood High School and later married the love of her life, Carmen Tortorici, at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Alameda, Calif. Together they built a remarkable life rooted in faith, loyalty, and family, sharing more than 70 years of marriage side by side.
To know Violet was to know love in action. Caring for her family was not simply what she did - it was who she was. She created a home that was always welcoming, comforting, and full of life, where no one ever left hungry or without a laugh. Her greatest happiness came from bringing people together, whether for birthdays, holidays, family dinners, or long afternoons spent talking around the kitchen table. Her family was the center of her world.
Violet spent several years working at the Wisconsin Motor Vehicle Department. After her time there, she held a variety of part-time jobs throughout her life, but her true gift was nurturing the people around her. She carried herself with quiet strength, a generous heart, and a quick wit paired with a wonderfully dry sense of humor that could catch you off guard in the best way.
She also found joy in life’s simple routines and pleasures. The daily newspaper and crossword puzzle were practically sacred, and if the newspaper carrier accidentally missed her house while she watched from the window, Violet would quickly call to make sure they came back before leaving the neighborhood. Not long after, she would usually be on the phone checking in with someone she loved. She cherished family gatherings, celebrations big and small, and, of course, dessert. Violet’s sweet tooth was legendary - there was always room for something sweet.
Violet was blessed with four children, Valerie (James) Sellers, Donalee (Dr. John Phelan) Tortorici, Carla Tortorici and Tony (Savita) Tortorici. She was a proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren, eight of whom were great-grandchildren, each one bringing her immeasurable pride and joy.
Even in her final moments, Violet never stopped thinking of others. Up until her very last breath, she remained strong and ensuring everyone around her was okay - still offering direction, comfort, and care despite her own suffering. It reflected the selfless way she lived her entire life: always putting the people she loved before herself.
Her absence leaves a profound emptiness, but the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in every family gathering, every shared laugh, every crossword puzzle, and every extra dessert served in her honor.
Her family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the hospice team for the compassionate care and comfort they provided to Violet and her loved ones during her final days.
Rest in peace, Mom. We love you deeply and will miss you always. Pray for us.
In keeping with Violet’s wishes, a graveside service will take place at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Highway BB, Cottage Grove, at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, with Father Gary Krahenbuhl presiding.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420