Frank Jose Torres

Frank Jose Torres, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on March 13, 2026, in Cedar Park, TX. Born on April 17, 1940, in Popayan, Colombia, Frank's life was a testament to his enduring spirit and boundless love for those around him.

Frank's early life in Colombia was marked by adventure and dedication. At the tender age of 15, he joined the Colombian Merchant Marines, completing his high school education amidst the waves and winds of the sea. This experience instilled in him a sense of discipline and resilience that would define his character. Following his service, he furthered his education at Boston Community College, where he honed the skills that would serve him throughout his career.

Frank eventually went to work for IBM, creating a successful career and retiring after many years of committed service. His colleagues remember him as a man who brought not only expertise but also warmth and humor to the workplace.

His love for soccer was unparalleled. He played with vigor and joy well into his seventies, sharing the field with teammates decades his junior, who marveled at his energy and spirit. His knowledge of every international team and player was encyclopedic, and his enthusiasm for the sport was contagious. It was a common sight to find Frank re-living the day's matches, his eyes alight with the thrill of the game.

Music flowed through Frank's veins. His love for classical Spanish compositions and the works of the great traditional masters was profound. His collection of tunes was as vast as his heart, and his computer's memory was always one download away from being full. His generosity extended to his music, as he shared his collection with anyone who appreciated a good tune, enhancing many a family gathering with the sound of his beloved melodies.

Frank touched countless lives through his unwavering gift of friendship. He was a man who not only collected friends but cherished them. Distance was no barrier; he nurtured relationships from his youth with the same vigor as those from his twilight years. Frank's friends knew they had a companion for life, a man who would laugh with them, cry with them, and most importantly, share a good story or two.

Above all, Frank's heart belonged to his family, who lovingly referred to him as "Papi" - a name that encapsulated his generous and nurturing spirit. His wife, Mercedes Torres, was the love of his life, and together they raised a family that included their son, Frank Jose Torres Jr., married to Karen Lyn Torres, and their daughter, Ana Mercedes Ecay, married to William Edward Ecay. Frank's legacy continues through his grandchildren, Marcus Torres (married to Kadie-Ann), Adrienne Hein-Torres (married to Jonathan Hein), Matthew Ecay, and Sophia Ecay, as well as his great-grandchildren, Mason Torres and Iris Hein. "Papi" was the patriarch who would move mountains for his loved ones. His boundless love was felt in every hug, every word of encouragement, and every playful moment with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who could never hear the word "no" escape his lips. His family was his world.

Frank was a beloved brother to Lilliam Torres de Chaux, Maritza Torres de Lobo, Ana Luisa Torres de Iragorri, and Gloria Torres. He was preceded in death by both his parents, Franciso José Torres-Rada and Ana Julia Fajardo de Torres, and his sister, Maria Cristina Torres de Garcia.

In his final years, Frank's relationship with God flourished. He shared the message of love and mercy with anyone when the moment was right, his faith becoming as integral to his identity as his humor and generosity.

Frank Jose Torres was the embodiment of a life well-lived, a man who could find the punchline in any situation and the love in every heart. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and generosity that will continue to echo through the lives of those who knew him.

Adios, Papi, and thank you for the countless encores of joy you have given us all.