Julie Michelle Torrenga

June 23, 1981 – October 15th, 2025

Julie Michelle Torrenga

Julie Michelle Torrenga, beloved daughter, sister, friend, and animal advocate, passed away on October 15th at the age of 44. Born at Evergreen Hospital in Kirkland, Washington, Julie brought joy and warmth into the lives of everyone she met.

From her earliest days, Julie’s compassionate nature and vibrant personality shone brightly. She grew up in a loving home with her parents, Elaine and Bruce, and her younger sister Sherri. Julie’s educational journey began at Shoreline Christian School and continued through Bellevue Christian High School, where she grew passionate about volleyball.  She later studied political justice at the University of Washington.

Julie began her professional life in the banking industry, but it wasn’t long before she followed her heart to a career that reflected her deep love for animals. As a veterinary technician and later the founder of At Home Pet Sitting and Care, Julie built a life around nurturing and connecting with her cherished four legged companions. Her clients—both human and furry—trusted her implicitly, and she never met an animal she didn’t adore.

Julie’s zest for life extended far beyond her work. She was a people-person through and through; her laughter was infectious, her smile ever-present, and her warmth unforgettable. Whether she was dominating a game of Bananagrams, piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, or diving into WWII fiction, Julie brought enthusiasm and joy to every moment. She was a devoted Sea hawks fan, proudly sporting #12 team gear on game days and beyond.

Her love for nature was profound. Julie found peace and wonder at the ocean, especially during her annual trips to Cannon Beach with her mom. She delighted in tide pool explorations and sea star counts-this past May, she joyfully recorded her highest count ever: 153 sea stars. Aquariums, especially those with penguins, were another source of aquatic delight.

Julie’s adventurous spirit led her on many journeys, from quick visits to Lynden to see Grandpa Henken’s library and family pets, to epic road trips like her recent adventure through Utah’s five National Parks. She embraced every experience with curiosity and courage-even when it meant braving Hell’s Backbone road with her mom behind the wheel or a trip over the San Juans with her cousin Ray at the controls of a small plane. Her palate was equally bold, with a special fondness for pickled treats, dill chips, and Gummy Bears.

Julie’s legacy is one of love, laughter, fun and compassion. She will be deeply missed by her family, especially her mother Elaine, father Bruce (Mary), sister Sherri (Eric), friends, clients, and the countless animals whose lives she touched.

A celebration of Julie’s life will be held on November 22nd , 2025 at 11:00 AM at Kelsey Creek Church, 1221 148th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98007. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Seattle Humane Society, honoring Julie’s lifelong devotion to animal welfare.