Michael R. Torres

With hearts full of love and fond memories, we celebrate the life of Michael 'Mike' Torres, who passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, at the age of 72, after a six-year progressive decline from dementia. Born on January 2, 1952 in Aurora, Illinois to the late Joseph Torres and the late Mary Bolden.  Mike lived a loving and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of joy, adventure, and dedication.

Mike was a devoted husband to his beautiful wife, Kathy, whom he married on January 26, 1974. Together, they celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage, filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering support for each other.

A man of strong work ethic and determination, Mike began his career in auto body and later transitioned into his passion for catastrophic insurance. He built a successful career, earning respect and admiration from colleagues and clients alike. Outside of work, Mike was passionate about traveling with his family, seeking new adventures, and creating cherished memories.
Known for his storytelling and memorable one-liners, Mike had a unique ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him, always with a twinkle in his eye and a joke at the ready. Mike was also known for his love of Hawaiian shirts, thrift shopping, and collecting treasured items. He enjoyed cars, NASCAR, cheeseburgers, pizza, Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville vibes and the Cubs. 

Mike is survived by his loving wife Kathy, and their daughters Michelle Torres-Turnage (Eldwin), Jennifer Sanchez (Tony), and Courtney Kish. He was a proud grandfather to Nikole Torres-Turnage, Hailey Torres-Turnage, Lauren Torres-Turnage, Shauna Sanchez, Alex Sanchez,  Luke Sanchez and Austin Kish, all of whom he adored deeply, as well as several nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him deeply.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Torres, Brother Joseph (Joan) Torres and a sister Dolores Hamilton. 

A man of strength, determination, and protection, Mike's greatest pride was his family. He loved being on or near the water, speed boating, and had a profound respect for US history and the armed forces. His love for good music, and good times will be remembered by all who knew him.

Kathy’s unwavering love and dedication as Mike’s full-time caregiver during his battle with dementia was a testament to their deep bond and commitment to each other.

A special thanks to their daughters, family, friends, hospice care staff, doctors and volunteers, especially Kathy Lewis and Larry Rybak. A special note of thanks to Jennifer and her husband Tony Sanchez, of which through their efforts home-care was made possible and diligent care was able to be provided during his final years.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 23 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at The Bauman Family Funeral Home 5600 Route 34, Oswego, IL. A Liturgical Wake  Service will begin at 5:00 p.m., officiated by Father Jerome Leake. Family and friends are invited to gather at the funeral home Wednesday 8:30 a.m. for prayers and final viewing proceeding to St. Anne Catholic Church 551 Boulder Hill Pass Oswego, IL 60543 for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.

Mike Torres's legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. May he rest in peace.

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