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Thomas Torres Obituary
Thomas David Torres, known simply as "Tom" to family, friends, and generations of students at St. Basil School, passed away on Sunday, March 2, at the age of 67, after a brief illness.
Tom was born on Nov. 9, 1946, to John and Gloria Torres in Madera, but spent most of his life in Vallejo. He attended local schools, graduating from Vallejo High School in 1966 and later from Sonoma State University and Sacramento State University for his teaching credentials. Tom, an educator for almost 40 years taught junior high math, science, PE, and art, served as Athletic Director, Dean of Discipline, Talent Show Director, Grade Trip Chaperon, and Graduation emcee at St. Basils Catholic School.
Tom's passion and love for children also impacted his personal life; he was an active foster parent for many years. He always put the needs of children first and influenced many children through the years. His firm boundaries, wise decisions, and loving advice garnered him the unofficial role of counselor and father figure to countless students and foster children. It is Tom's kindness, decency, and generosity that left an indelible mark on his family and the many students, parents, and faculty members with whom he crossed paths.
Tom was a talented artist and an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hiking, gardening, and camping. He loved to travel, enjoyed museums and music and movies, and never passed up an opportunity to have a good laugh with family, friends, and colleagues.
Tom, a loyal man, was devoted to his family.
Preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Frank and Theresa Lopez; his father, John Avalos Torres; brother, John Ezequias Torres, and nephew, John Joseph Torres. He is survived by his precious grandchildren, Kyla and Tommy of Union City; his mother, Gloria; sisters, Lynda (Rich) Frith and Joan (Larry) Nelson; brothers, Mitchell and Ross Torres, and sons, Placdio and Kenny Torres.
A funeral Mass will be held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, March 15, at St. Basil's Church, 1230 Nebraska St., Vallejo. lnurnment will be private.
Memorial contributions can be sent on behalf of Tom to Foster a Dream, 628 Escobar St., Martinez, CA 94553.
Cremation and arrangements entrusted to the direction and care of Twin Chapels Mortuary, Vallejo (707) 552-6696. www.TwinChapelsMortuary.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Torres
Sponsored by St. Basil's Teachers.
Chris 2002
May 18, 2020
Tom was my first teacher to show that school lessons can go beyond what is read in a book or written on a chalk board. Tom had a gift for encouraging kids of all ages and backgrounds, especially those who lacked self confidence. Whether it was with a pat on the back during PE, a simple word of encouragement during art class, or a genuine smile in your direction, Tom seemed to know what could help a kid out in a time of need. I'm a better person for learning that kindness and empathy can have a positive, lasting impact on the lives of others, and I have Tom to thank for that. Truly one of a kind and someone I will always remember fondly, thanks for your love and support, Tom.
Thomas Torres
October 14, 2019
I have a lot of memories with my grandpa A good person I check on this hoping to see some new memories that are in the back of my mind. but I am in constant fear that I am slowly forgetting i will never forget him.
Thomas Torres
October 14, 2019
He was a good person also being my grandpa I loved him dearly and have a lot of memories with him I felt as if death was to early but we do not have any reason I did not get 1 last good by but if i could see him one more time i would give him the biggest hug I could.
Sister
March 4, 2019
I love you
Jody Gaillard-Hastey
July 28, 2015
Forever my boyfriend and always your Vice Pres. Katie Keen forever! I love you as my brother. So many memories to cherish. I just found out about this. Now I know why my letter to you was returned. See you soon!
Joan Torres Nelson
September 3, 2014
Thinking if you always brother.. We all miss you very much! ..
May 27, 2014
Missing you
May 26, 2014
Never a day that i don't think of you.. my brother and best friend.
May 8, 2014
A Tom Torres Scholarship Fund is being established at St. Basils to be presented to a student who will be going on to a Catholic High School. Anyone wanting to contribute to this ongoing scholarship can send in donations to St. Basils Tom Torres Scholarship Fund. Thank you.
Mary Hernandez
April 9, 2014
Tom thank you for a job well done as a Teacher, Friend to my son Paulo. Now you are resting and watching over us beside God's side. So many good memories you left behind. RIP
Ken Garcia
March 15, 2014
You touched so many lives, Tom. Be proud of the great work you have done. I still get the chills hearing the yard stick ruler slam on the table. Bug collections, frog disecting, and happy faces on tests will never be the same. Deepest condolences to the Torres family. RIP Tom.
Michael Lavezzo
March 15, 2014
Tom, each day this week I tried to reflect your sensible, affirming approach in my own classroom. Thank you for being my teacher and thank you for guiding my own teaching.
Kathy Lavezzo
March 15, 2014
I will always remember Tom fondly as my sixth-grade teacher. Tom was a kind, generous and supportive educator.
Judith ann Torres
March 14, 2014
I love and miss you so much pop's and you were the best father in law anyone could ever ask for . Thank u for being there for me as a father in law and as a friend. I love u and u will not be forgotten.
Licerio Rayala
March 13, 2014
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Aimee Winn
March 13, 2014
Tom, you were the first teacher we were allowed to be on a 'first name-basis' with, and the privilege gave us a sense of respect and maturity. You reminded us in the most supportive way we were no longer considered little kids. You made our transition from adolescence to young adults a crucial Life's lesson that has heralded me into my adulthood. I am forever grateful for the few times I was fairly punished and the MANY times you let me slide with a warning and a wink. A remarkable teacher, mentor and friend, and you will be missed dearly.
Aimee McGee Winn
St.Basil's c/o '84
dort smylie
March 13, 2014
My prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. However, the bible holds the answer to this question, "Was man created by God simply to die? Scientists have discovered that the body is capable of living forever but why don't it? The Bible gives us the answer. Romans 5 : 12 " Through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because they had all sinned. " Isn't it good to know from the bible the reason we die? And that one day soon God will bring righteous mankind to peaceful conditions right here on earth?
Jimmy O'Brien
March 12, 2014
Tom was the one who took a chance on me and challenged me to do my best. He made me believe in myself and hence to know myself. I will always be in your debt my old friend.
Thank you Tom!
Karna Taylor (Canfield)
March 12, 2014
One of many great teachers we had. Tom was a roll model for is all he taught us girls what a man should be. You will be missed.
Jeff Caffoe
March 11, 2014
The best Teacher I had and I will always remember what he taught me and how to respect others
Tricia Johnson
March 11, 2014
Deepest condolences to the Torres family.
March 10, 2014
Tom
Thank you for all the great memories you will be truly missed by all.
John A Peretto and Family
Fortier Family
March 9, 2014
Tom was a great teacher and a phenomenal person. Our love and prayers to his family and friends.
Janet English
March 9, 2014
Torres Family,
Tom led a life of purpose. The lives he touched are endless. We have memories from Fleming Ave to St. Basil's. Tom is most certain in heaven. May he rest in Peace.
Mary, Jimmy, Janet and Danny English
Aubrey Matthews
March 9, 2014
My condolences to the family of Tom Torres.
Gloria Pontarolo Taft
March 9, 2014
It is so sad to lose another classmate
from Vallejo High School, Class of 1966.
Tom was our cheerleader and always smiling and full of energy.
My condolences go to his family.
March 9, 2014
Rest in peace...
Simon Vargas
March 9, 2014
SO SORRY, the question marks were suppose to be FLOWERS in my First post. Again my CONDOLENCES.
Christine Niccum-Hill
March 9, 2014
Tom, remembering your first day at SBS. The boys PE teacher. All of us girl students were in love with you. And then how blessed is my family that my son learned from you as well. And your cool self attended my SBS Class of 1976's 31st class reunion. Tom you are a rock star and legend. Rest your tired self. You deserve it.
Maureen Brennan Joyce
March 8, 2014
One of the nicest, most caring people ever. A short time of high school memories are forever. Cheerleader and friend to all at Vallejo High. .
Former St.B's student
March 8, 2014
Tom, you were a great teacher & will be truly missed by so many...My condolences to your family...Rest In Paradise!
Candice Villanueva Andulan
March 8, 2014
Tom on behalf of my siblings and I you were a great teacher and we will forever be thankful for your guidance as our teacher throughout junior high. Deepest condolences to Tom's family.
Donna Fong-Wada
March 8, 2014
Heart felt condolences to Tommy's family. I knew Tommy as a classmate at Franklin Jr. High and then met up with him at Vallejo High. Such a sweet, kind, and wonderful friend. Rest in Peace Dearest Tommy.
March 8, 2014
So Sorry for the loss of your brother and Son of your parents can't image loosing a sibling, you are in are thoughts and prayer for he is with our loving god and no more suffering god bless you and your family. Cathy Seames-Miller and Scott Miller
Lino Dial
March 8, 2014
Prayers to Tom's family. Tom was an excellent teacher to many of us at St. Basil's, including my four siblings and me. God bless you now in Heaven, Tom.
Ricky Fagundes-George
March 8, 2014
Tom was the bomb! He was helpful but assertive.He was the "king" of the school. Students were more afraid to go to Toms room then to Mrs. Hill's office, but that's what made Tom an icon. His sense of humor was something you had to get used to and once you figured it out, you would know he was a great guy to know and be around. Tom cared so much about his students. He would hold private study sessions for people who were struggling with the class. He wanted all of us to succeed. He was one of those teachers that you could be friends with, but at the same time you knew how to respect his authority. He was an artist, a mathematic genius, a scientist, an explorer, and an athlete. He taught his students a variety of subjects that would later on help them in life. If there was one word to describe Tom, it would be unselfish because he cared more about the people around him then himself and that's an honest man to me. I wish I could have thanked him one last time for the impact he made on my childhood but I will say it now, to the angel above me I hope God can handle you up there big guy, you earned a place in my heart forever, thank you for everything you've done for this earth.
Jenny Coloma Wing
March 8, 2014
Tommy's Family & Friends.
Wishing you peace to bring comfort,and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Jenny Coloma Wing VSHS class of '66
Robert Desrosiers
March 8, 2014
Thank you Tom for keeping your watchful eye on me in 7th grade
Deatra Gilbert
March 8, 2014
You will be and are so very missed by many. My love and respect for you is and was greater than you could ever know. You showed me things that as a young student I could not understand. As I now raise up my grandkids, it is your lessons and influence I use to guide them.. You surely are one of the greatest educators this world has ever had and a great blessing to mev and so very many others. R.I.P my mentor, educator and friend.
Dori Burnside
March 8, 2014
In my heart, I will keep many happy memories of Tommy. G-d speed.....
Sandra Musselwhite
March 8, 2014
I'm so Sorry for you loss,Tom was a great Teacher,RIP Tom
Simon Vargas
March 8, 2014
Rest in Peace..????My Friend and '66 Class Mate..MY HEART FELT CONDOLENCES to Lynda and TORRES FAMILY...In my PRAYERS..
Shannon, Stephen and Ricky George
March 8, 2014
Such an amazing life, gone too soon. Truly one of the best teachers, we will never forget you Tom!
Robin Sarmiento
March 8, 2014
Tom was such an important person to me as a St. Basil's alumni..Always so kind, so sweet, he was a part of our memories growing up in school..i send my condolences to his family ..heaven has definitely gotten another angel..rest in peace Tom
Bill Zundel
March 8, 2014
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. We have lost another from our class of '66. We will miss him.
Kathy Kuznik
March 8, 2014
I'm so sorry for your loss. Tom was a great guy, and well respected teacher in the community. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. RIP Tom Torres.
Dave and Carla Paulk
March 8, 2014
We did not personally know Tom but we know many people whose lives he has touched. Rest in peace and blessings to your family.
Kristen Landwehr
March 8, 2014
A stellar teacher & a stand-up guy all around!! I am forever greatful to have been fortunate enough to have you as a teacher and friend. May you be forever by God's side and bask in the love & glory you so deserve!! Thank you for being a part of my life Tom. You will truly be missed!!
Jay Keith
March 8, 2014
Our prayers are with you all, a great man from a great family,,Jay @ Val
April Henderson
March 8, 2014
Godspeed Tom!
Mark Donnelly
March 8, 2014
The best friend and teacher I have known. His wit, caring, and loyalty were unmatched. He had a huge impact on many lives and will be dearly missed.
John Wagner
March 8, 2014
So sorry for the loss of your Son and Brother Tommy!!! I met Tommy and Johnny way back in Elementary School ( Beverly Hills) Your Family was in my life for many years to come! John.
Tina Morin
March 8, 2014
Love youTom Tom still remember when you lived with us at 425 So J in Madera. Now your in heaven with Auntie LINDA and Uncle John and brother Johnny and nephew..xoTina
Andy and Emichel Moelk
March 8, 2014
You'll always be a part of our lives, Tom. We will miss you....Rest In Peace
With love,
Andy, Emichel,
Dani and Trevor
Patricia Marof
March 8, 2014
Prayers to all his family
Joe & Pat Avellar
March 8, 2014
Thanks for all the good times and memories. We will miss you so much.
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