TORIBIO "TOBY" FLORES

TORIBIO "TOBY" FLORES passed away on September 18, 2010, at the age of 91. Born on November 10, 1918, in the town of Libres in Puebla, Mexico, Toby Flores came to California during World War II as a bracero, where he worked harvesting in the fields. Toby, a self-taught jack of all trades, worked as a door-to-door men's clothing salesperson, a mechanic, at Pacific Fruit Express (PFE), for Santa Fe Railroad and Transco, and most notably as the owner of Toby's Market #1 and #2 in South Colton. Toby married Mary Vasquez on September 29, 1944, after meeting her at PFE. the two bought a home on "N" Street in South Colton, where they raised six children and lived together until Mary's passing in 2009, after more than 60 years of marriage. Toby came to the United States with very little, and through hard work and determination he started a successful business and raised a family. One of the accomplishments that he was most proud of was becoming a U.S. citizen. Toby's life embodied the American Dream. Toby is survived by his six children, Toby Flores of North Hills, Teresa Gomez of Rialto, Rosa Garcia of Colton, Daniel Flores of Grand Terrace, Mary John of San Bernardino, and Rachel Flores of Colton; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and many more family and friends. A Viewing will be held Thursday, September 23, from 6-9 P.M. at Colton Funeral Home (1275 N. La Cadena Dr.) with Rosary Services at 7 P.M. Mass will be held on Friday, September 24, at 10 A.M. at San Salvador Catholic Church (178 W. K St., Colton), followed by the Burial Services at Montecito Memorial Cemetery (3520 E. Washington) St., Colton). A reception will follow at Veterans Park in South Colton at approximately 1 P.M.