Thomas David Torres

Thomas David Torres, known simply as "Tom" to family, friends, and generations of students at St. Basil School, passed away on Sunday, March, at the age of 67, after a brief illness. Tom was born on November 9, 1946, to John and Gloria Torres in Madera, California, 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 forty 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. Cremation and arrangements entrusted to the direction and care of Twin Chapels Mortuary, Vallejo (707) 552-6696. www.TwinChapelsMortuary.com

Thomas David Torres

November 9, 1946 - March 2, 2014