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Catalina Torres Obituary

Catalina R. Torres Resident of Martinez Catalina Ruvalcaba Torres born in Yahualica, Jalisco, Mexico and raised in Martinez, California, passed on Saturday September 6, 2008 at the age of 44. Catalina was a powerful woman and an exceptional role model for her family, friends and community. Catalina was a graduate of Alhambra High School, a certified cosmetologist and an alumnus of Saint Mary's College in Moraga where she majored in Women's Studies. As a former student of Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, she returned as a math instructor and tutor for over ten years. She worked part time as a cosmetologist as well. Catalina was also a teacher for a high school program, "Go Get it" (GGI), in Concord where she tutored various subjects. She volunteered for "STAND!" also in Concord serving as an advocate for battered women. Catalina leaves behind a legacy of advocacy of helping those most in need. She made a positive impact in the East Bay Community especially for women and students. She will always be remembered as an advocate for families, education, service, peace, and love. Catalina lovingly referred to as "Cata" is survived by her two sons Nicolas Carmona (age 22) and Rafael Carmona (age 24), daughter-in-law Veronica, grandson Andrew; Mother Rafaela Ruvalcaba Torres, Father Eustacio Torres, younger siblings: Guillermo, Silvia, Eustacio Jr., Patricia and Noe; and an extended family. All who knew and loved Catalina are invited to Saint Catherine's Catholic Church on the corner of Estudillo & Mellus St. in Martinez, to a time of visitation, Thursday, September 11 beginning at 4:00 pm. A memorial mass will follow on Friday, September 12 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to DVC Foundation - Catalina Torres Scholarship or call (925)685-1405. Holy Angels Funeral & Cremation Center, San Pablo (510) 234 - 2012

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Published by Contra Costa Times on Sep. 11, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Catalina Torres

Not sure what to say?





October 11, 2012

Guess what Cata? I'll be Starting graduate school in the spring
Stephanie

stephanie flores

August 21, 2010

Cata,

lately i have been thinking a lot about you I have just about finished my B.A in psychology and will be going to graduate school in the next two years i always tell people it is because of you that i have gotten so far in my education, you always believed in me and i am so thankful for everything you have done for me. i love you so much and miss those time at DVC where you helped every single day those two years before going to SFSU. You are always in my thoughts and it is because of you that i will never give up on my dreams. love you so much and miss you!

Daisy Ponce-Gonzalez

May 15, 2009

Cata-
It's still so hard to hear your name or look at your picture, but I know that from where you are, you haven't forgotten about us, and are watching over everyone you loved. I know that you would have wanted our family to stay solidifed, and I hope that you help our family to find that peace within themselves.Life is very different without you..there is no one to pressure me about finishing school, or to take care of my mom...but I know that my mom has a new guardian angel now, and that you're gonna protect her from heaven =) We miss you Cata...

Rosy Ramirez

March 8, 2009

Querida Cata:
Feliz cumpleanos hermosa!How is my birthday girl celebrating today in heaven? I hope the angels are giving you a proper feast, like the ones we use to have with pozole, mangos, and tres leches cake and your old time favorite...limes with coconut! Do the angels do justice to Earth's Mariachi bands? Make sure they serenade you well today. I miss you very much, but since the sun is shining bright today I'm going to assume that you want all your friends to go out and enjoy this day and honor your memory. Take care querida, you are forever in our hearts.

Maria Elena RUBALCAVA

January 27, 2009

CATA
Hermana querida! cuanta falta me haces, ya nada es igual sin ty; pero se que brillas en el cielo como el lucero que contemplo noche a noche... cuantos recuerdos dejas en mi memoria, recuerdos gratos que me daran la fortaleza para seguir tu legado; porque tu fuiste un ejemplo a seguir . desde chiquitas recuerdo siempre fuiste lider y un ser maravilloso! DIOS necesitaba un angel y quien mejor que tu.
te quiero mucho!!!

Rebecca Ross

January 6, 2009

Catalina, I miss you so much. Thanks for helping me with my math homework and for cooking me all those wonderful meals at your house. I appreciate you so much. You really helped me and I loved spending time with you and ShellyBelly. We both miss you every day. I will see you again someday! Love you so much, Becky

Mayra Abarca

November 30, 2008

I remember when i met cata it was my first day in ggi i was too anoying i never think about go to college before but cata start to talk me about college and its benefits her words make me think about my future she inspired me to think about studies she was a good person i'll never forget u cata thanks for everythink rest in peace.....

Pablo

November 24, 2008

I just wanted to let everybody know what a great person you are and always be.Cata you will always be missed by everybody in GGI and everybody knows the great person you are. I just got to know you for a year but, within that year I saw, what a great person you were and I will always miss you Cata.

GGI 2007-2008 SANTA CRUZ ..WITH CATA <3

November 21, 2008

joana v. nd cata

November 21, 2008

Rocio(chio) Zavala

November 15, 2008

cata,
i miss you so much. i now i only new you for a about a year but during this year i got the chance to meet a great person. You always had a graet big smile on your face no matter what. And that smile always put a smile on my face. You were many things to me, you were my tutor, my friend, and now you are my angel.
I still remember all those good times at GGI, and how you would always call me Chio. I remember on friday the the 5 of september, when we had the meeting so that we could prepare everything for the first day of GGI, you were so happy and so excited for the new year of GGI. I am so happy that i got to see you for one last time and that i had the chance to say good bye to you that nite.
I miss you so much and you will always be in my heart!

Larry Delgado & Family

October 14, 2008

Torres Familia:

No words can ever express our feelings towards this senseless tragedy. We have so many memories of Catalina and her family growing up, that we will always cherish. Catalina made a difference in everyone's life that she met and will never be forgotten. May the family find comfort in prayers and support from each other and guidance through there faith in God.

Jesse Holguin

October 12, 2008

Catalina, you will be missed by me. You knew that I always loved you and cared for you. Never in my mind, I thought you were in trouble. Sorry for not showing up. I will miss you. See you next time in life. Love you, Jesse

Maynor Guerra

October 11, 2008

cata was my tutor for a program caleld ggi(go get it). she would help us with homework and help us out with projects and made sure we were all doing well in school. Cata would always bring food and she knew i loved pizza so she got all of the students it. i have only known cata for about a year but within that year i met a amazing person. Someone that would always have a smile on her face someone that would always look happy and glad to see everyone around her. Even if she was having a bad day you would see a smile. All the students in ggi loved her and looked up to her! Cata also made one heck of pina juice. I cant belive that she is gone. But no matter what she will always be in our hearts. And for some reason she never said my name rite she would always say minor haha she was the only person who would call me that but i didnt mind...anyways i wanted to say that everyone is going to miss cata and love her.

may god be with you torres family

Rest In Peace cata!!! were going to miss you very much

Kathy Elquist

October 9, 2008

I went to high school with Cathy and as most of us do - wonder off and loose touch - However, by reading the many entries, I sense Cathy touched the lives of many as she did when I knew her years ago. What a blessing to us all to have known such a person and to take what was given and bless others.

To the Torres family - may our Lord continue to lift you out of sorrow to see the Joy of Cathy's life in others.

Alhambra 1981 Graduate

Katherine Granado

October 5, 2008

Torres Family,

My heart and prayers go out to your family during these hard times. Catalina was always so cheerful when she would come into the DVC cafeteria to get coffee before heading up to the Math Lab. When I heard what had happened to her, I was in shock and disbelief. May God help you all during this very hard time.

Fede Y Marie Castillo

September 22, 2008

Mi mas sentido pesame a toda la familia Torres Que Dios les de fuersas y balor para soportar, este grandisimo dolor, Muy sinceramente
Fede y Marie Castillo

Gloria Gonzalez (Rochin)

September 22, 2008

Cathy, I will miss your beautiful smile, hugs and besos, and your "hi mija"'s you gave me everytime I saw you. I didn't know that you did so much. I have never seen St. Catherine's so full before, you were truly loved by many. Even though I didn't see you often, we were like family. Que descanses en paz. Eres un angel de Dios.

To the family, may God help you all in this hard time, it all seems like a dream that we all want to wake up from. My condolences and prayers are with Felo, Nicky and the Torres Family.

Joyce Boon (Brunton)

September 22, 2008

Torres Family,

My heart bleeds for your loss.
My deepest sympathy.

stephanie

September 20, 2008

Cata, i hate it that i talked to you exalty one week before this happend, thank you for being so proud of me and being thier for me!
It was only because of you that I'm at sfsu. You always believed in me and told me that i can go very far in life, and im working on it! thank you for tutoring me for two years at DVC. I'll miss you and pray for you and your family. oh yes..I'm working hard to go to grad school cata! you always knew i could do it!

I'll miss you and keep working hard!!

Ps-I'll definitely have to go to fresh choice and get one of those yummy salads we always got during our breaks at the tutoring center



love you always <3


ill make you proud :]

sss sss

September 20, 2008

To the Torres family,

Although I did not know Catalina, I know her sister Patricia and have worked with her for years. After reading about Catalina and all of her work in the community I see that the kindness and all the giving are wonderful family traits. I know Catalina will be missed and there are no words to heal the pain the Torres family is feeling at this time. Only time and the fond memories will ease that pain. Patricia you are very missed at work and we are all thinking of you and your family. I hope you take the time to rest and be with your family, we are praying for all of you.

With love

Lakewood

Amy Swei

September 19, 2008

Dearest Patty & The Torres Family,

Life is eternal and Love is immortal.
I pray that Catalina continuously grow in God's love and now come to a step closer to His sweet embrace.

janetta killough

September 16, 2008

god bless you and may your family be able to heal. i miss you all so much i use to work with you and i loved how you spoke to me as if i was family . learned alot from you and we miss you i will always keep you close in my mind. love the killoughs utah (martinez ca)

we the killough family and the churchill family will miss you dearly

September 16, 2008

Familia Jimenez

September 16, 2008

Para la familia Torres
We love u guys and are here if u need anything. Cata we will miss u but never forget u. U are always in our hearts.

Athena & Frank Cosio

September 15, 2008

The Torres Family,
I am so sorry for your loss...our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to your family. We met Catalina many yrs ago through our daughter Jessica who went to Alhambra with Jeannette. Our whole family was going to the Salon to have our hair done and Catalina always made me feel so beautiful.
We did not realize what a strong advocate you have been Catalina. My husband Frank and I feel completely honored to have been able to cross paths with you and we will always remember you for all that you have done. You are truly a Hero to many... including our family...A Hero to more than we all know and that's beautiful... God will reward for that...........
God Bless all of your family and friends in this time of sorrow... may all the prayers give them strength to get through the pain of your loss.
Always,
The Cosio Family

Alythia Raya

September 15, 2008

Cathy,

I hate that this happened to you. When my mum called and told me that you were the one my heart broke completely. I'm never going to see your beautiful smile, and face and laugh. I'm never going to be greeted with that wonderful hug and words you always would give me when I saw you. You always made me feel like something good. Thank you for everything, and you'll never leave my heart.

Norma Miranda

September 15, 2008

To the Torres Family,
May you find the strength and guidance through your faith in God, in helping you during this difficult period. Catalina touched many lives and she will never be forgotten.

My heartfelt Sympathy goes out to your family,

Josephine Auda

September 14, 2008

Cat,

You are always sweet lady. I have been there for a short time, I always go in with Charles. It was always pleasure to see a friendly face on campus when I was student there.

So long forever,
-J

karlia resendiz

September 14, 2008

cata our family was blessed to have you there in our time of need you were there for my sister rosie whenever she needed you and for that i thank you i know now the two of you are together and smiling down on all of us you will always be loved and remembered

At the baptism party of the son of Omar Torres. Taken Feb 16 2008 in Orange County, California. Submitted by David Cervera, cousin of Cata.

September 14, 2008

Danny Rose

September 13, 2008

Dear Eustacio, Patty and Noe,

you are a wonderful famly and
you have my condolences and my prayers.

Catina Schmidt

September 13, 2008

To the Torres Family:

May your hearts be lightened to know that God has brought your mother, your sister, and your daughter home to a peaceful resting place. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family in this sad time.

Amy Stanis

September 13, 2008

I just can't believe this has happened to someone so warm and lovely. What a beautiful smile you seemed to always have on your face Catalina...heaven is so lucky to have you. We are so sad to lose you. May God be with the family and comfort you as you work through the pain of this tragic loss.

Barbara Scramstad

September 13, 2008

To Catalina's family: I extend every sympathy to you for losing someone as precious as she must have been to all of you. I met Catalina as an advocate for, and friend of, one of my clients going through a tough divorce. She was there for her at every turn, and now that I see all she had going on in her life, it is even more amazing. From the first time I met her, I felt her warmth and humor. She was the definition of a genuine person. I am of course, shocked and saddened by her death, like everyone. Again, I am so very sorry for your loss, and hope you find some comfort in the memories you have and the ones people have shared with you at this sad time.

Shoni Branum

September 13, 2008

Torres Family,
Our deepest condolence goes out to your family during this difficult time.
You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Brayla (Hamilton) Olsen

September 12, 2008

There is no right thing to say in moments like this, there is nothing that people can give to you but love and comfort, you just have to surround yourself with people who love you right now, and keep in mind what she stood for. When I first heard about this on campus on monday I was really shaken, but then I realized that I had seen this woman throughout my childhood, that this happened to someone that my life crossed paths with. I remember her being a really good Mother, Rafael I hope you and all of your family can band together right now, I don't know what to say. I'm so sorry and I hope you guys can all pull through these hard times together. People loved your Mother all over the place, and she loved you. Remember that.

Bray

Myleene Bosch

September 12, 2008

In the years that we have known you, rain or shine, you were always cheerful and friendly with a smile in the salon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Myleene and Allie

DIANE SERPA

September 12, 2008

GOD BE WITH ALL OF YOU DURING THIS MOST TRAUMATIC TIME. REST IN PEACE CATALINA.

Ashlie Delgado

September 12, 2008

May god be with you through this unimaginable, very hard time. Catalina was an admirable woman! She knew my family very well and grew up with my mom (Bonnie Daulton- Delgado). Her son Raphel was in my Kindergarden class. She will be missed dearly. I am honored to have known her! She is in my prayers and will always be in my heart.
God Bless you All,
Love,
Ashlie Delgado

Penelope Chan

September 12, 2008

Catalina,
You sat next to me in English class a year ago. Do you remember? You were such an interesting person with lots to say and we used to chat after class. You were sweet and kind, understanding and beautiful. I wish I knew you better and I'll never forget your kind face and gentle voice. Diablo Valley College lost a wonderful member.
To the Torres Family: Catalina will never be forgotten. I am so sorry for your loss.

Jim and Linda Shields

September 12, 2008

Patti and Noe,
We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. If you need anything please call. 969-9219
Love,
Jim and Linda

Ashiana Khan

September 12, 2008

Dear Torres Family,
I am very sorry for your tragic loss.
Catalina was a beautiful woman with a warm smile. I only saw her once while in Elegant Hair and can only wish that we all could turn back time. Stay strong.

Lauri Abed

September 12, 2008

Dear Torres Family,
There are 3 women who I have tried to emulate, or think about what they would do, when looking for guidance in my own life. Catalina is one of those women. She had this unique and amazing quality of centered strength from which poured out such unselfish warmth and support for others. I am sure in her passing she has left behind more than memories, but also inspiration. It was an honor to know her.

Carolyn McGann

September 12, 2008

To the Torres Family-
I am so sorry for your family's loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
With love,
Carolyn McGann

MERCURE FAMILY

September 12, 2008

TO THE TORRES FAMILY,
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO YOU IN THIS TIME. WE HAVE ALWAYS LOVED AND RESPECTED EACH AND EVERYONE IN YOUR FAMILY. CATHY WAS LOVED DEARLY AND WILL BE MISSED.

Paul & Margi Flores

September 12, 2008

My sincere condolences to all of Cata's family! May God bless you and give you comfort!

ROCHELLE.

September 11, 2008

MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE TORRES FAMILY DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME. EVEN THOUGH I WISHED I HAD CATALINA AS MY MATH TEACHER AT DVC, I HEARD FROM MANY OF MY FRIENDS THAT SHE WAS THE BEST. NOW, THAT CATALINA'S GONE, HER MEMORY WILL LAST FOREVER.

RIP

September 11, 2008

Sra.RAFAELA Y FAMILIA.
Que Dios les de consuelo por esta perdida tan inreparable mi mas sentido pesame estamos con ustedes y Que
Dios tenga a Catalina en su santa
Gloria.
FAMILIA.Garcia Meza

Cata on the side cheering on Maria P as she received her diploma, forever showimng her support

September 11, 2008

Cata and her shadow Jamie T at the 2008 DVC graduation sharing the success they worked so hard for

September 11, 2008

Cata at the 2008 DVC Graduation supporting her students

September 11, 2008

Nicole Barber

September 11, 2008

Catalina was my math tutor at DVC. She was a beautiful person, you always saw her smiling. She enjoyed helping others. She spoke of her sons and family very highly. I am so thankful to have even had the chance to meet her. Ill never forget what a wonderful person she was. My deepest sympathy to her family.

Felicitas Rangel-Sinosky

September 11, 2008

Familia Torres:
I remember when your family moved into our neighborhood. I clearly remember Cata and our hearts our sadden with her passing. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Que Dios los bendiga.

Kathy Hughes

September 11, 2008

Torres Family,
My deepest sympathy to you. May the light of the Holy Spirit surround you and give you strength and peace through this very difficult time.

Travis

September 11, 2008

To the Torres family, Cata was more than a friend, she was and is an advocate for peace. She will be missed. May god heal your pain in time. Travis & Erika

Michael Castro

September 11, 2008

Cathy,

I'm missing you like a big brother would. Thinking of the times when Angie, you and the two Sandra's would be the launchers of the water balloons from the bed of my pick-up. Knowing in my heart if everyone had one percent of you in them our world would be in harmony.Big Brother to Angie's Fiffy's

September 11, 2008

Catalina our prayers are with you and your family. You were always so nice and understanding, Thank u and GOD BLESS...

Frances Castro

September 11, 2008

Torres family, I will always remember the pretty, fun, laughing, smilling girl that my daughter learned to love as a sister,even if Angie had of had all sisters. I'm the one who made her girl doll. I am sure GOD will heal you & make you pretty again with love forever, I will miss you, love you as one of my own family forever. Fran

Lisa Vannoy

September 11, 2008

Torres Family,
My thoughts are with all of the family and friends that knew Catalina. I did not know her but saw her briefly Saturday and she will live on in my heart forever. God bless you all.

Larry Prado

September 11, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family. She raised some respectful and loving kids. I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless.

Linda Prideaux

September 11, 2008

To Patti and Noe, who I taught in preschool, and the rest of the Torres family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May our Catholic faith help you in this time of need.

Teresa Terrado

September 11, 2008

Torres Family and loved ones:
I will always remember Cata to have a warm and loving nature. Although I hadn't seen her in awhile, I thought of her often, especially when there were remembrances of the BIG perm days, she gave me my first 20 years ago. It's a reminder to us all that we should never take the ones we love for granted and always take the time to make time. My heart is with her children and all of those that loved her. She has wings now and I know she will fly high among the Angels. She will be missed until we see her again.
With much love and prayers,

Laura Anagnostopoulos

September 11, 2008

Catalina was a wonderful person. She gave of herself with no complaints. She was a hero. We will miss her.

Liz Farris

September 11, 2008

My Dearest Catalina: I am so blessed to have known you for the last 14 years. We shared much love and tears and I will never forget all our true conversations from the heart. You will continue to be an angel to me always. I trust your spirit will always be a part of my life. My sincere condolences to your Mother and family members.

Araceli Hernandez

September 11, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

William Beaubeaux

September 11, 2008

Dear Torres Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I wish peace and healing for you all. May your strength and love for each other guide you through this tragedy.

September 11, 2008

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Karina Limon (Gallo)

September 11, 2008

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Juliana Adrianzen

September 11, 2008

Dear Cata,
I know we did not have much contact, and I also know how much you liked to help students to succeed in math and that’s where I met you at the Tutor lab. I always saw you as a nice person, willing to help everybody whenever they needed, you never said no to anybody,and I will always remember you like that. the person who never said "No" to anything. I've never imagined hearing this, but one day that I was walking to the math lab I saw cardboards, flowers and pictures on the ground. I thought it was something else, but it was until two days after when I heard in the news that you were death and that’s when I realized that was you the person they were talking about. Now that you are in a better life, I hope you can live eternity and watch up for all the ones you love very much.

God will keep you in Glory

Loretta Mohammed-Johnson

September 11, 2008

Dear Torres Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone one of you. Cathy was a wonderful woman and will be deeply missed. I have known Cathy for many years and Felo wrestled with my son here at Freedom High in Oakley and Cathy was always out on the mat cheering her son on and that proud look on her face and wonderful smile if he won or lost. You will always be in my familys heart.

Henrik Hulten

September 11, 2008

To Nick, Felo and the Torres family:

On behalf of the Awenius and Hulten families, I express my deepest condolances for your loss.

It's been a long time since we saw Catalina last, but the memories of a strong, compassionate, caring woman who always had kind words and a smile are as clear as if it was yesterday. Please know that you all are in our thoughts during this time of grief and sorrow.

Catalina, you have undoubtedly left an impression on all of us. We are all greatful for having known you.

Betty Elliott

September 11, 2008

You died a hero! You gave your life potecting and helping battered human beings. God has you in his arms and will never let you go.

The Fischer Family

September 11, 2008

To the Torres Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. May God give you strenth during this time of need. You will be in our prayers.

Kasey Flores

September 11, 2008

For Cata's family,
Cata was an incredible person, she had such a caring and warm nature, she will be greatly missed by all who knew her. We are shocked and saddened by this tragic loss. Take care of yourselves through this difficult time and remember the woman who inspired and helped so many. Hopefully this loss will serve to create a better support and reaction to domestic violence.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kasey and Roberto Flores

PERRY MAYNARD

September 11, 2008

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AMND GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUIR FAMILY

Angie

September 11, 2008

Cathy, I miss you soooo much, I've been walking around confused and numb. You know I've been waiting for that morning call you were going to drop and lose me by the golf course on your way to dvc. My mornings just aren't right without that, "I'm getting close to the trees if I lose you I'll call you back." I must not have any patients. You tried passing that along to be but the bull in me wasn't patient enough to learn. I remember Mrs. Patterson telling me to make friends with the new girl and I told her I can't I don't know how to talk to her, and she told me yes I know, but You know how to play. (38 years ago) This must come as a shock to you I'm kinda admitting my age, and I can see you now smiling and laughing at me for that. Cat I will always love you and keep you in my heart. Doug and the kids are heartbroken also, you are to good of a person for such an ending. Are there rollerskates in heaven? If not, I'll bring extras with me when I get there. Cathy, you'll understand, this one is for you. I'm 44, and I love my bestfriend. Miss you xoxoxo

Ben & Dorothy Cruz

September 11, 2008

To Fello & Nicky & the Torres Family,

I am so sorry to hear about Cathy sending our deepest sympathy to you all and our thoughts, prayers and love are with your family. We are so sorry we could not make it to the service for we are out of the country. But hope to see you when we get back home.
Prayers and love to you all,
Ben & Dorothy Cruz

Jacqueline SanNicolas

September 11, 2008

To the Torres Family:

There are no words that will comfort the pain and loss of a love one and the questions why? But the only thing to do is to take one day at a time and pray for her for she was taken so suddenly from your lives. She will be always in your hearts and in your minds.
The time has come to bid her farewell even if the pain is great. We shall never forget you Cathy for the lord has open the pearly gates. You were taken from us so suddenly that we were all in a daze. But we have to be strong, so that you can go up all the way. It really hurts, yes it's true, and we will never be the same. Your heart will forever be with us, and we will never forget your name. We will know that you are safe, for you are with the lord, this we know. So we bid you farewell Cathy we will finally let you go.
Sylvia my dear friend i am so sorry for what has happen but my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Your long time friend in Guam ,
Jackie Cruz SanNicolas

LuAna Matthews

September 10, 2008

I met Catalina when I first started going to DVC. She offered me help and encouraged me through some Very tuff times. Though we never spent our free time together, she touched my life more than some who have spent years around me. I bonded with her because she had accomplished so much and endured such hardships. She gave me confidence to remove myself from abusive relationships. She inspired me to keep trying to graduate from college, even though I am horrible at math. She was such a special person and I wish that I would have gone last week to the math lab to say "hi" like I intended but then didn't because I could see her this week. I will forever have you in my heart and remember your smile. Catalina, piccola, ti voiglio sempre bene. Cividiamo in paradiso

Cheryl Hale

September 10, 2008

Catalina - I will remember you everytime I look at Nicole & Rachel's school pictures, dance pictures, Jr. Prom and Senior Ball. You always did their hair and made them look beautiful. You also tutored Nicole in math at DVC, she says she couldn't have made it without you. I know you had a lot of struggles, but you always persevered and I bellieve your faith got you through many hard times. Know that you will be missed. I'm sorry it's been so long since I saw you, but life seems to fly by and then things like this happen and it reminds us that we should "never" lose touch. I know you are now in a great place. Love you always,

Past Patron

September 10, 2008

Torres Family
I did not know your mother very well, only the times I went to Elegant Hair Designs and she was there helping her cousin Margarita out. I do remember her strength, her smile for everyone that walked thru that salon. Please know that as senseless as this trajedy was, your mother did not die in vain. She died a hero, helping shielding innocent people. As time passes by and the harshness of this gets lighter people will remember your mother for what she became a strong, loving, helping person. Her job here on earth is done and it is now our turn to continue doing what she fought so hard for. Many women are stronger and independant because of your mother. Hold her close as she has never left you, she will always be with you and your family.

Delia Bibeau

September 10, 2008

I am sorry for Catalina Torres Familys loss but I knew her only
briefly at DVC and she was a special caring person that I would call a hero! Delia Bibeau

Mariana Sierra

September 10, 2008

Catalina always had a SMILE in her. I danced Mexican Folklorico with Catalina. I still have the vestidos or dresses we would wear when performing at DVC. I am still schocked about what happened to you Cata. I am truly sorry and will keep you and your family in my prayers!

PATRICK TARANGO

September 10, 2008

GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

Cardinale Family

September 10, 2008

Cata is going to be deeply missed. Your infectious smile is a treasured memory. Our hearts, thoughts and love go to the family.

Mayra Gomez and family

September 10, 2008

Catalina:
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I have no words to express my feelings I can't believe you're physically gone. But you will always live in our hearts. You were the perfect role model for all your students and for many others to. I want to thank you for all your help you gave me at Diablo Valley College. Thanks to you my friends and I passed our math classes. You never said No to us you were ALWAYS there no matter what. I remember when I asked you for a recommendation letter at the last minute you probably had soooo many to write over night but you wrote it . you were the inspiration of so many of us. I never saw you sad or mad you always had that big smile, thats how I and my family will always remember you. Our prayers will always be with you and your family.

Christine Treat

September 10, 2008

Cata, you are in a beautiful place now with angels all around you.. we worked together and i always wished i could do weddings and proms half as well as you... you always asked about my son and had us in your prayers, you always had such a bright smile on your face, even when things were a little rough... we are such a tight little family down there, you will for ever be in my thoughts and i will miss your smile on saturday mornings, i only wish we had more time together,,,
i love you like my sister,
Love always,
Chris

Nancy Block

September 10, 2008

Torres Family
My deepest condolences to all your Family. Catalina was a very smart and kind woman, she was my math tutor. Thank you Catalina for all your help, I'll miss you.

Gayle Hansen

September 10, 2008

Catalina was a very special person...open and warm-hearted and always willing to extend a hand to help. I am more sorry for your loss than I can possibly say.

Yvette Contino

September 10, 2008

Its still so unbelievable that something so tragic like this has happened in our home town! it's a very huge loss to the torres family as well as the community as you can clearly see by all the blessings. She touched more lives than she probably even knew about. She is watching down on us now and she will do her best up there as she did down here on earth to watch over her friends and family. i am very close with the Lopez family which is how I know of Cathy. I always remember her having a smile on her face! Rest in Peace and god bless her children, Veronica and her grandson!!

Teresa Ramirez

September 10, 2008

I first met Catalina Torres through my sister at DVC. Even though our paths did not cross that often she always had a kind word to say to me. When I started my first semester at DVC she always reminded me that if I ever needed help with anything I could always ask her for help. I always ran into her in the Math Tutoring Center and she was always the person who was willing to help students overcome their struggle with math. She was source of inspiration towards others and her messages of hope always lifted one's spirits. Even if one was having a bad day she took the time to listen to your problems and offer some piece of advice. At times like these I always remember the movie, It's a Wonderful Life. It isn't until a person has left their family, friends, and community behind that they are able to see what a difference they made in other people. By using her own experiences she was able to help other families/individuals in STAND, tutor students, and inspire others to become a leader. I know for a fact that many people would not have become the person that they are today had it not been for Cata's presence in their life. Even though Cata was taken too soon her memory will always remain with us.
Cata- I know you will always be looking out for us and I feel better knowing that we will see you again in the future. God bless you. You are truly one of God's beautiful angels.

Sindy Rodriguez

September 10, 2008

Cata,
I am going to miss you. Thank you for always been there for me. You were a great woman always looking out for the students. I am so please that i got to know you. You are the inspiration for many of us. Thank you , thank you so much, i would never stop thanking you for all yor help.
Que descanses empaz y k dios te proteja fuiste una excellenta persona. You always will be remembered.

Nancy Rogers

September 10, 2008

Catalina you will be in my heart for ever. I will miss the times that you tutored me and the great tamales you brought to school. You are a hero in my book you never let me give up on math ever when I wanted to drop the class. I will miss you.

Nicole Hale

September 10, 2008

I first met Catalina when I was a little girl and she cut my hair. I remember her styling my hair for a family picture and she put little beads that looked like pearls in my hair. She made me feel like a little princess when she did this. She continued to do my hair for me over the years and then when I was in college she helped me get through a math class. I decided to take algebra during the summer over 6 weeks which turned out to be a mistake. I was struggling and my mom told me to call Catalina that she might be able to help me. If it hadn't been for her I wouldn't have been able to make it through the class. I have known her for 20 years, I am only 26. She was one of the strongest, kindest, warmest people that I have ever known. She deserved the absolute best out of life and yet she had her struggles. She over came them and helped other people to over come there struggles. No one will ever be able to fill Catalina's shoes. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. I feel truely blessed that I had the opportunity to know Catalina and to have had her in my life for so long. God bless you Catalina. I will miss you.

Yolanda Diaz

September 10, 2008

I can not express my heart felt sympathies but I share with you titles of poems that have helped many of us grieve a loss. Since I can not submit copyrighted works I suggest "The Broken Chain" and "All is well" May they bring peace to your heart and may your family find comfort in the arms of an angel.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal and love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Jas Lopez

September 10, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Jonique Ellis

September 10, 2008

May god bless you all for your loss.

Cate Didion

September 10, 2008

Torres Family, She was an incredible woman who will be sorley missed. Your are in my prayers. I pray for the strength to get us all thought this.
Much love,

Kris Houck

September 10, 2008

I am truly shocked and saddened to learn that Catalina's life was so tragically cut short. She was my math tutor at DVC. She was the first teacher I ever had that was able to help me make sense of Algebra. I enjoyed her stories of the tricks she used to help her children understand math. And to learn now of her many other contributions to the world, I feel privileged to have known her. There are no words to describe how my heart goes out to her family and friends. The world is a better place with Catalina's presence in it. God's comfort and strength to all who loved her.

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