Lloyd M. “Smokie” Sorenson Jr.

Lloyd M. “Smokie” Sorenson Jr., age 84, of Clearwater, died Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Annandale Care Center surrounded by his family.

Funeral Services will be held 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Annandale with Fr. Kevin Magner as Celebrant. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Private interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Smokie was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on March 14, 1941, to Lloyd and Dolores (Bleske) Sorenson. He graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1959 before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force, which he proudly served until his honorable discharge in February of 1970, exemplifying the values of commitment and service that would characterize his life.

Smokie was united in marriage to Gail Soberg, on November 19, 1988, in Hampton, Iowa. Together, they raised their six children, Lance, Luke, Lisa, Lane, Audra, and Tanya, in a home filled with laughter and love. 

Smokie dedicated 44 years of his professional life to the agricultural industry, spending 17 years with Tisco and 27 years with Burns Industrial. His work not only highlighted his expertise and dedication but also allowed him to connect with countless individuals who came to respect him for his integrity and kindness.

Smokie found joy in activities like golf, fishing, and a spirited game of cards, particularly 500 and cribbage. Smokie’s love for the outdoors was manifested in his meticulous care for his lawn, taking immense pride in keeping dandelions and creeping charlie at bay. Equally devoted to adventure, he had an itch to travel, always ready to explore the open road with a steering wheel in hand.

Smokie is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Gail of Belle Plaine, children Lance Soberg of Mankato, Luke (Amie) Sorenson of Parker, Co, Lisa (A.J.) Buss of Clear Lake, IA, Lane (Heather) Sorenson of Waterloo, IA, Audra Kerkow of Clearwater, and Tanya (Tim) Indrehus of Belle Plaine; 14 grandchildren Karie, Andrew, Cameron, Skylar, Megan, Joshua, Dillon, Taylor, Lexi, Keagen, Rachel, Ian, Lauren, Dalton, and Jace; 5 great-grandchildren Carter, Elliot, Noa, Adrik, and Zach. Siblings Bernie “Bub” Sorenson, and Mary Worthen. He was preceded in death by his parents Lloyd and Dolores Sorenson; siblings Rodney Sorenson, Carol Horstman, Jenny Sorenson, and Laura “Tootie” Sorenson.