Angelo "Pete" Torres

1931 - 2017

Coach Torres lived his life by the same code he asked of his players: work hard, be a gentleman and remember it doesn't hurt after the pain is gone. Angelo "Pete" Torres died peacefully in his sleep on Friday, November 24, 2017. He was 86.

The California native was born on June 28, 1931, to Luz and Evaristo Torres in Lincoln, California, and raised in Wheatland. After graduating from Wheatland High School, he attended Yuba Community College then completed his bachelor's degree at San Francisco State University on an Air Force ROTC scholarship. Following graduation, Officer Torres became a pilot in the Air Force and was stationed in Panama City, FL, where he flew the legendary T-33 Shooting Star. He relished every minute of it. Pete not only loved flying; he was known as squadron social director, organizing adventures that crisscrossed the country.

After completing active duty, Pete traded his wings for a whistle and Captain Torres became Coach Torres. He returned to Wheatland High School as a respected teacher and athletic director but he excelled as a football coach. Coach Torres had 4 undefeated teams including a string of 28 straight victories and 6 championships.

After earning a masters degree from Chico State, Pete joined Yuba College as a counselor where he helped guide countless students. During this time, Pete was never far from an athletic field. As the unofficial assistant coach, he lent his skills to the Yuba College baseball and track teams and served as an assistant coach of the semi-pro football team Twin City Cougars.

When he wasn't running drills or tormenting the officials, Pete enjoyed traveling the world and telling other people how to barbecue, but his true love was his family. The dedicated father was a fixture at every youth, high school and collegiate sporting event. As an avid fisherman and water skier, Pete's most cherished time was boating with his family. He was equally happy cruising Lake Tahoe, trolling for salmon in Fort Bragg or towing his children through the narrows of Englebright.

Pete is survived by his daughter, Julie Anna Manley, his sons; Peter Torres and Tony Torres, his four granddaughters; Isabella, Polly, Madison and Taylor, and his sister, Emily (Torres) Dawson. A private memorial service will be held for the family.

As we mourn the loss of Pete's life, we are reminded of the incredible impact he had on the lives of his students and players, his family and his community. He will live on in our hearts and in our memories as a man we are honored to call friend, coach and father.

In recognition of students who excel both on and off the field, a scholarship has been established. For those wishing to contribute, please consider donating to Wheatland Union High School District in the name of Pete Torres. Wheatland Union High School, Director of Fiscal Services, 1010 Wheatland Rd., Wheatland, CA 95692.