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Juan de la Torre Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Juan de la Torre
Sponsored by Precision Auto Parts.
Maura (Macaraeg) Mastin
July 9, 2010
The Macaraeg Family wants to send their thoughts and sorrow for your loss. My Mother Thelma sent me the wonderful and personal articles. I (Maura) have fond memories of your family growing up with Rebecca, Robert and Yvonne. I worked with your Aunt Lydia at the Telephone Company for several years and met your Mother during Lydia's illness and she remembered me from Rio Vista. Lydia and I talked about all of you a lot. Memories are a wonderful comfort. My Dad died before my 16th birthday, but I have a lot of special memories. May God Bless All of You and Keep You.
My Siblings are Vangie Blake, Neva Mitchell, Sam and Al Macaraeg
Inez Alvarez
June 13, 2010
To my wonderful, precious Becca, Michael, Yvonne, John, Tita: Thank you so very much for the care you administered to my sister. You are all so very special. I pray that you are all well. You all went through a very tough six weeks (at least). I used to say "God will not give us more than we can handle" but at times I wondered. "After every storm, a rainbow and for every tear, a smile"..May God bless you and continue guiding you! I will write more later about your Mom and Dad. This morning I just wanted to send a BIG HUG to each of you! Mom and Dad are safely home and together as they would want to be. I picture them on the Highway to Heaven on their Lincoln Continental (which was their pride and joy when you kids were youngsters). Love you with all my heart! Aunt Inez
Rebecca Ponte
June 12, 2010
Love you Mom and Dad! Thinking of you and miss our evening phone calls and Mass & Brunch tomorrow morning. I feel you are in a happy restful place now. Rebecca
Little Sister Dubbie
June 11, 2010
Mary, my loving big sister:
I just can't believe that you and Johnny are gone. What wonderful memories you left behind. I'm going to miss you SO much. You know that you were my second Mom, although you were only nine years older than I. On one occassion when we first moved to El Paso and I started a new school, I vividly remember you getting me ready for school, especially curling my hair and taking me on the first day.
As a teenager, my visit with you in Los Angeles was so enjoyable. The time I spent with you and Johnny, Becca & Michael and Robert made my first visit to California very special.
As we grew up we stayed close. When you had your "babies" I was so thrilled and I felt like they were mine, too. I loved them so much and I still do. After I got married and had my own kids, there were many times when you shared household hints, "home remedies" and recipes with me. (remember the chile cheese corn bread?)
For that, too, I am grateful.
The last few years I have so treasured our Friday phone calls and will really, really miss them. I will talk to you anyway--in prayer, trusting that you will hear me.
I will always love you and I will never forget you!
With God's blessings...
Until we meet again...
Florence Dye
June 5, 2010
My condolences to the entire de la Torre family, but especially to Robert and Yvonne. You were so fortunate to have your parents to guide and love you for so many years. The obituary was such a wonderful tribute!!
Florence (Thomason) Dye
[Classmate from so very many years ago.]
Michael Jones
June 4, 2010
To Bob & Louise... I was sad to hear of the passing of your parents. I think I met your Mom once down at Precision... many years ago. After reading the write up in the newspaper it is not hard at all to see where you and your sister get your solid values. Your parents were increcible examples of what a husband, wife, parents, and leaders should aspire to. They lived full and honorable lives... and I am certain you are very proud to continue their legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. From a friend in your past...
Respectfully,
R. Michael Jones
Arnold and Harriet Benavidez
June 2, 2010
We hope that you are all comforted by special memories of both parents. Our deepest sympathies for all the family.
Linda Vachata
June 1, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with the de la Torre family.
Dora & Ron Spickler
June 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Diana Kilber
May 30, 2010
Rebecca,
Sending lots of love to you and your family and wishes for peace, acceptance and joyful memories of your mom and dad. Of course their passing is very sad, but oh so special it is that they left together. What a wonderful love story. I enjoyed reading your letters to your parents, and was touched deeply by the beautiful things you said to them. You were lucky to have them as your parents and they were lucky to have you as their daughter. Love, Diana
Everett & Donna Griffin
May 30, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Ft Bliss Recruiting Office 1941
May 30, 2010
Rebecca Ponte'
May 29, 2010
Dear Dad,
I share this for all to know the graces of the father I knew so many years ago. Dad as I look back I chuckle and cry. I know now you raised us "Military Style" cause we "brats" would have run you and mom over! We marched "column" of troopers" in and out of "aunties " homes. There were 4 of us then, I was 6 when 4th child John was born. I was the leader.. . . . . ."hup 1,..2 . 3.. 4" We had a "code of conduct.(no ice cream on the way home for those that stepped out of line during the visit.)
We had 3 articles of each underwear and socks. They were to be neatly rolled. We were to keep toiletries in order and no squishing of toothpaste! ( ha.. guess that is why I squish it now!) Oh, and none of this pajama loitering in the morning. Get up, bathe, get dressed for household chores, work at the shop or school.
Dad, you were better than any high school counselor. You sat me down my freshman year and said... "O.K. you are the leader. If you don't go to college then none of the little ones will go. You must set an example. What do you want to be when you grow up?" Not liking my choices you proceeded to let me know I needed to choose a profession in which I could tend to my children if I should loose my husband. You asked me which subjects I liked in school. I said Physical education and Spanish. Your response... "Good. You go to school and become a teacher." Years later I asked you if you were satisfied with my accomplishments. Your response was no," I'll never be satisfied. " It took me 40 years to realize that what you meant was I had to satisfy me and not you. The words "can't " and "try" were not allowed in our vocabulary. You would say "don't TRY, Do! " (You were way ahead of NIKE). Dad, you had so much determination & drive. You were such a philosopher, creator I wonder what you would have become if only you had the opportunities you provided us.
You scared many a boyfriend away. I finally married when I was 26. You had a talk with my husband to be. The warning was: "You leave this woman and the children from this marriage are ours to raise. None of this ....your weekend.......her weekend. No...no..no..no." Suprisingly, Jim Ponte married me and 40+ years later we are still together. The 300 or so people that attended our wedding will remember the big sign dad painted and posted at the reception. Dad, your talents were many, Thank you for addressing my wedding invitations with your beautiful calligraphy. You were a military hero, a friend,offering help & advice to those in need, always a scout, a philosopher, a creator, an artist, a husband and a father of 5.
What's amazing is after World War II, while you were raising 4 kids, you finished your high school education. Realizing you were unable to pursue a profession, you went on to technical school, and later in 1954 you physically, built your business one block at a time. Once the walls and roof were up, you were open for business. I remember you slept there with our dog lady until you had enough money to buy window and doors for the building. Then in 1958 Louise was born!
For a while I thought you had discovered "play" when you used to golf with the uncles and the "Par Gents". But I think your work was actually your "play".
I can understand that now. You were recycling before recycling was the "in" thing to do. Dad, you were always thinking and always doing. Sometimes I see a bit of myself in you.
Thanks for finding my mom, your "million dollar baby" in a 5 & 10 cent store.
Thanks for my siblings Robert Michael, Yvonne, John, & Tita. They are the greatest gifts of all. Thanks for "Rules of the Road". I understand you had my best interest at heart. I am just beginning to understand some of your deep philosophy. You were way ahead of your time. Here's a kiss on your forehead...I love you. Rebecca
Rebecca Ponte
May 29, 2010
I Love You Mom & Dad
Rebecca Ponte'
May 29, 2010
Remembering Mom,
Mom, I will miss you so much. I give thanks that I was able to spend this Last month with you. I give thanks for the many Sundays we went to church together and had time for an occasional brunch with you and your sisters. I wish there were more times. But when I feel cheated these days, I realize God gave us you for 33 more years since your last breast cancer battle. I do give thanks for that time.
I want to share memories of my early years with you. You were such a great little homemaker during the "pre Precision " years. I was so lucky to have that time with you.
I remember your cute white tie back organza curtains. I couldn't wait to have my own home and have those in the window. You used to bake incredible jelly rolls, pineapple upside down cakes, angel food cakes, lemon meringue pies, coconut cream pies, white coconut cake, apple empanadas. You could whip up tacos or spaghetti for a crew in a flash and you were so cool as to use a pressure cooker (l loved that and still use one today).
I was such a busy body as a child and always had to be doing something with my hands. Even though you had the little ones, you made sure I had paper, glue, something to draw or write with. I think I was only about 5 when you taught me to embroider. You would iron a little girl with a big skirt on to a pillowcase. I loved to make those knots with thread. I think you would give the pillowcases to the aunties. You made time to teach me to crochet. Later you taught me to sew. One year the aunties all received table cloths from you that I had made. (Who knows what they looked like but you thought they were great). I made aprons, skirts then dresses. You would go with me to buy fabric. I loved the smell and colors at the fabric store. I loved my home economics class in grade school, so you made a point to stay in touch with that teacher. Some how you made time to be a room mother. You made a point to know the Principal and the school nurse. You participated in PTA.
You took me to every new school on the first day. I was the only high school freshman who had her mom with her buying books on orientation day. Funny,I thought you would be with me on the first day of school at ASU! I am amazed as I look back at how you did so much for me when you had 4 more at home plus dad!
Mom, You were such a strong, powerful woman in your own sweet quiet way. You were dads backbone, I know that dad was able to accomplish so much because he always knew you were faithfully by his side supporting him in anything he wanted to accomplish.
Because of you, I know how to love and be loved. That is the greatest gift you have given me.
Dad truly found a "Million Dollar Baby" in that 5 and dime store in Fort Bliss in 1942!
I have always been so proud to be your daughter. You have forever given me positive encouragement. I know you made many sacrifices for me. I love you more than you'll ever know! Rebecca
Juan Garcia and Family
May 28, 2010
My heart goes out to all of you in your time of grief. May God bless all of you and help you through your loss, and hard time right now. Memories will alway's live on in each of your hearts. Your family has been and is a blessing in my life. God has two more wonderful angels to protect and watch over us.
Joe Larsson
May 28, 2010
John
Our lives crossed paths for a few year. You were a great man and I learned a lot from you. I even got the chance to take a crazy picture of you hanging upside down by your FEET!!!
God Bless
Jocke
1946
May 28, 2010
May 28, 2010
"Can Not" is not is John's vocabulary
May 28, 2010
1959
May 28, 2010
1955
May 28, 2010
Laurie Lavallee
May 28, 2010
Louise
I know words can't possibly take away the grief and loss you feel. Your parents were always welcoming! I remember the first time I met your mom. It was a big family gathering at Yvonne's house and your mom was greeting everyone at the door with a huge smile. Beautiful lady!
Prayers to you and your family
Laurie Lavallee
Michael Smith
May 28, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
May 28, 2010
¦LARRY H. MILLER COLLISION CENTER says:
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE ENTIRE de la TORRE FAMILY AND OUR FRIENDS AT PRECISION AUTO PARTS. THE STAFF AT LARRY H. MILLER COLLISION CENTER AND THE LARRY H. MILLER GROUP SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
Joe Martinez
May 27, 2010
To the entire de la Torre family my prayers go to you. My memories at SMHS with you Robert, Yvonne and Juan. Jaun will never forget the times we spent together with Danny Benite Tony Estrada and Larry P. Your parenrs were "Second to None"
Such wonderful memories.
Joe Martinez
George Young
May 27, 2010
I am sorry for your loss. Your parents will be greatly missed in the South Mountain Village. Love, Peace and God Bless, Your Friend George
Eleanor Spencer Foust
May 27, 2010
Yvonne,
What a beautiful tribute to your parents! It must be very difficult to lose both of them so close together; but comforting to know that they are happy together, just like the song from the 60's. We don't always understand God's ways; but if we accept them, he will help us through the rough spots. My father has been gone almost 19 years and my 94 year old mother doesn't understand why she's still here.
You won't remember me, but I remember your beautiful face and personality at South High. I was a Freshman your Senior year and I looked up to you.
May God bless you and your family with his love and strength.
May 26, 2010
I am a freind of Jessie's and want the whole family to know you are in my prayers and will be for some time. God bless and help you through you loss. Margaret Radelic
Just a friend in thought
May 26, 2010
That was the most beautiful double-obituary I have ever seen. They seem to have had a wonderful, fulfilled life together. My sincere condolences go out to the De La Torre family. May your memories bring you smiles, not tears.
May 26, 2010
Dear Family , We are sorry for your loss . May you find comfort in the promise that all those in Gods memory will will be ressurrected.
Mary Rucker
May 25, 2010
Dear Louise, Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Mary Rucker
Joe Banks III
May 25, 2010
Dear De La Torre Family,
John was an active member of the City of Phoenix Target Area "B" Board of Directors for over ten years & rarely missed a meeting. The Board could always count on him for a down to earth common sense perspective of an issue. Occasionally Mary would attend and "polish up his perspective". We all loved them both & will miss them greatly. They & your family are in our prayers.
George Young - Chair
Joe Banks - Co-Chair
Mario Ansich - Phx Police Dept.
Mitch Hames - Phx Zoning Inspector
Travis Fields - Phx Development Svcs
Skip Creighton-Phx Revitalization Svcs
Casper Habre - Phx Parks Dept.
Geraldine Hawkins - Member
Emily Lilly - Member
Barbara Barnes - Member
Chuy Jewlers - Member
Mary Davis - Member
Chris Williams - Member
May 25, 2010
OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE DE LA TORRE FAMILY, FROM YOUR FRIENDS @ I-17 AUTO RECYCLERS.
Edmund Lerma
May 25, 2010
To the DeLaTorre Family, Our prayers are with you during this time. Your parents were a true testimony of what Family and Leadership represents. They were blessed with a beautiful hard working family that brought them much joy. May you find inner Peace to know that they are in Heaven and with Christ. Your lifetime will be filled with great memories and Honor to have had such wonderful parents. God Bless, Edmund & Theresa Lerma and family!
Chris Young
May 24, 2010
Dear De la Torre Family, Please accept my sincerest condolences. I lived on 11th street also and my mother and step-father were the other Juan and Maria. Martinez was the last name. It has been 10 years since they passed and I still miss them. A heartfelt thank you to your parents when my mother died. I especially remember your mom's kindness. The circumstances surrounding my mom's death are still unsolved. I remember your parents offering information to the police, their sincerity is still vivid in my memory.
Dzung Tran
May 24, 2010
Dear Yvonne...with my deepest sympathy to You & your Family! (Dzung C. Tran-SMCC)
Monique Preciado
May 24, 2010
Juan,
The memories that I hold in my head of your mom and dad are those that I received from stories told over and over by my dad (Larry Preciado). He had a very special place in his heart for your parents as well as you. Until his passing he spoke of all the time of how he spent time with your family, he always spoke so highly and every story had a great ending. Know that my dad was waiting at those golden gates for both of your parents and welcoming them to join him as your guardian angels.
I love you very much and know that time will only heal your pain. Know that we are here for you as you were for us.
With all my LOVE and Prayers
Codie Brooks
May 24, 2010
We are truly sorry for your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with the entire de la Torre family.
Sincerely,
Your friends at Phoenix Automotive Cores & Phoenix Automotive Cats
Anthony Preciado
May 24, 2010
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Robert Sibbio
May 24, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the de la Torre family.
Robert & Chris Sibbio
May 24, 2010
May 24, 2010
Rebecca, Jim & Family
Howard and I were so saddened about the loss of both parents in such a short time span. It is so difficult to lose your last connection to those who brought you into this world.
Be strengthened by the memories of your many years together.
May both of them Rest in Peace and be free from all earthly problems.
Lynne & Howard Powers
May 24, 2010
Rebecca:
Nancy and I hold you and family in our hearts and prayers. So sorry for your loss.
Jim Kennedy
chris woodward
May 24, 2010
Our prayers to you and your family, Mr D was a true American Hero, Mrs D. was a dedicated women, May they find peace in the comfort our the Lord's arms, May you find peace in knowing the Lord is with you always. Chris and Jacki Woodward
SCHERRI/ED AYALA
May 23, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Beatriz Cohen
May 23, 2010
Querida Yvonne,
Los estoy pensando muchisimo. Que el recuerdo de tus padres te de fortaleza a ti y a toda la familia.
Con carino,
Beatriz Cohen
May 23, 2010
My heart goes out to my friend Louise and her family during this sad time. I am glad you and your family had time with both parents before they passed. I am thinking of you.
Love,
Michele Michaels
Phoenix, AZ
MICHAEL SMITH
May 23, 2010
DEEPEST SYMPATHY,SORRY FOR LOSS AND OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU
LOVE ALWAYS MICHAEL AND CANDY SMITH
Gregory Bustamante
May 23, 2010
My condolences to the entire de la Torre family.
I have fond memories as a child of hanging out at the family's home for parties or a visit.
I know I speak for the entire Bustamante clan when I say that we will keep you all in our prayers and thoughts during this difficult time.
Love you and hope to see you in the weeks to come!
2002
May 23, 2010
May 23, 2010
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