Harry Torsten Nygard

An accomplished athlete, Harry started turning heads at the age of 14 while playing baseball at the Sportsman Club. He attended Stadium High School and was the starting quarterback of its varsity football team. He played both varsity basketball and baseball.

His high school career highlight came in 1946 when Stadium played for the state baseball championship in Walla Walla. He pitched Stadium to victory on a Tuesday night to earn a spot in the state tournament and followed that by pitching consecutive nights on Friday and Saturday. He hurled complete game victories each night, striking out a total of 33 batters. While his pitching performances were remarkable, throwing between 500 and 600 pitches over an eight-day period took a toll on Harry’s arm and led to an early end to a promising baseball career.

He finished high school early, graduating in January 1947, to begin his pro career and immediately signed with the Tacoma Tigers. He played professional ball for the Brooklyn Dodgers, El Centro, the Medford Dodgers, Boise Pilots, Idaho Falls Russets, and finally, with the Vancouver Capilanos in the Western International League.

The highlight of his pro career came when he was named the starting pitcher in the 1949 Pioneer League All-Star game.

Harry retired from a successful career, one he credited to his competitive spirit in sports, as a Kirby Vacuum distributor. He won numerous national and international sales contests.

He married his soulmate, Marjorie Nance Nov. 10, 1951. They were happily married for 73 years and enjoyed many retirement years at their home in Longbranch.

Harry is survived by Marjorie and their two daughters, Debra Smith (Rick) and Cindy Taylor (Tim). He enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren: Rick Smith, Shannon Smith Wallace and Jacob and Diana Taylor; as well as his nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

His loved ones will miss his competitive spirit, but most of all his kindness, unending generosity and love for his family.

Dad, this is the big game — go pitch a no-hitter!