Joseph G. Torrez

Joseph Gabriel Torrez, age 86, passed away on October 8, 2021. Born to parents, Jose Maria and Dionisia Villalobos Torrez in Kanopolis, KS, Joseph served in the US Army after graduating from Rockhurst University. He pursued his Masters of Social Work at St. Louis University where he met his future wife Rita, whom he married in 1965. For 35 years, he worked at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA before retiring in 2003. He was a member of Our Lady of Grace parish where he was an Eucharistic Minister for over 30 years. His greatest role in life was that of husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. Affectionately known as "Big Guy", "Pop", "Poppy", Dad, and "Dother", he was a gentle soul. He was always there when he was needed, and knew also when to stand back and let go. He was the rock of the family and will be greatly missed. In addition to his wife of 56 years Rita, he is survived by his children, Joseph (Mariette) of Abu Dhabi, UAE, Timothy of Richmond, VA, Brian (Joseph) of Pittsburgh, PA, Maria (Alfred) Sossi also of Pittsburgh, PA, and five grandchildren, Anna, Kevin, Ryan, Nicholas and Joshua. Joseph is also survived by his sister, Margaret Cowen of Oakley, CA and brother, Fr. Basil Torrez of Quinter, KS, and many many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by nine blessed siblings. Friends welcome Tuesday, October 12, 2021, from 2-8 p.m., WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, (412-563-2800) 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp., 15220. Catholic Mass at St. Michael the Archangel Parish-Our Lady of Grace Church, Wednesday, October 13, 2021, 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society-St. Michael the Archangel Parish (311 Washington Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15216), or to the charity of your choice.
www.slaterfuneral.com