Jose Torres Gomez

Jose Torres (1946-2026)

Jose Torres, 79, of Round Lake Heights, died peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on March 26, 2026.

He was born in Quiroga, Michoacan, Mexico on July 3, 1946 to Rafael Torres and Hermelinda Gomez. He grew up in the small town of El Cobrero, Michoacan, Mexico. With only an elementary level education he was able to work many jobs from working the fields with his father, then traveling to Mexico City as a mason worker. As a young adult he decided to venture to the States in search of a better future for his parents, siblings and nieces and nephews. He was known as "Manuel Esparza" in his earlier years. He came to Illinois in the 70's working as a stable hand to train horses for sulky harness racing. From those horses he trained they won many championships .

He had many hobbies and interests from riding horses and bulls. He loved to listen to music and dance with any opportunity he got. He had an interest in hunting and fishing. To even target practice with his firearms.

In 1989, he married Graciela Gonzalez in his hometown. They moved to Libertyville, IL to work at Shadow Brook Farm. Then in 1990, his first daughter, Araceli, was born. Moving to Mundelein to settle as a family, and work at Countryside Turf Club at the horse stables up until his retirement. In 1992, his second and last daughter, Miriam was born. In 1995, he became a U.S. Citizen showing appreciation for this country as his second home. He then went on to start a small landscaping business up until 2016. In 2006, he was diagnosed with kidney cancer, and was in remission until it returned in 2012. Although he was in treatment he managed to buy and pay off his first home in Round Lake Heights. In 2017, he had to retire due to his cancer spreading. In 2016, his first granddaughter, Edith, was born. He then welcomed 2 more grandchildren Emma (2017), and Marcelo Jose (2021).

Jose was preceded in death by his mother, Hermelinda; his sister, Margarita; his brother, Rafael; his father, Rafael; and his sister, Josefina. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Graciela; his daughters, Araceli (Antonio, spouse) and Miriam (Marcelo, spouse); grandchildren, Edith, Emma, and Marcelo Jose; finally his sister, Herminia; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He will be greatly missed by all.