Ronald Torres

Ronald Frank Torres of Lakewood CA passed away February 26, 2025. Ron fought valiantly against Lewy Body Dementia, peacefully passing away surrounded by his Family.

Born in route from Barstow to the Loma Linda Hospital on May 19, 1947. The middle child of three children of Frank and Esther Torres, Ron was raised in Barstow, CA attended Barstow High School graduating in 1965.

Ron received his First Holy Communion June 8, 1958 at St Josephs in Barstow, CA and was confirmed into the Catholic Faith May 12, 1961.

Enlisted into the U.S. Army September 1966, Ron reached the rank of Specialist 5 and served a tour in Vietnam 1968-1969. During his service Ron was awarded the National Defense, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign and Good Conduct Medals. Ron was Honorably discharged from active duty in September 1969.

After leaving the Army Ron attended Barstow College 1969-1970 then Golden West College earning an AA degree in transportation. He used his degree to become the Traffic Manager for the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station. Ron was known as “Mr. Elegance” to his co-workers for his impeccable personal appearance. Ron took great pride in all he did. Ron retired from the Defense Department after 39 years of faithful service.

Ron spent 52 years with his Husband Arthur Winch. The couple was able to “Officially Marry” on September 28, 2013. They made their home in Long Beach and then Lakewood CA. Ron and Arthur loved to travel, taking cruises and trips to Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Greek Islands, Great Britain, Bali and Ron’s favorite destination the Hawaiian Islands. They enjoyed the theater and an active social life with a large circle of friends and Family. Ron was a devoted Husband, Son, Brother, Stepfather, Uncle and a loyal friend.

Arthur and Ron attended both St Cyprians Catholic Church in Long Beach and Lakewood First United Methodist Church, Mass on Saturday night and Methodist services on Sunday was their weekly routine. Ron was a founding member of the broken loaf food pantry at the Methodist Church.

Ron had a special passion for Golf and Gardening. Visitors to Arthur and Ron’s home often marveled at the meticulously kept back yard full of Ron’s flowers.

Ron always had music playing in the house especially during “Family dinners” on Saturday night, or the television on playing classic television shows. Gun Smoke and Star Trek were just a couple of his favorites. Ron also loved slap stick comedy movies, the three stooges being his favorite.

Ron’s parents purchased a 1950 Studebaker Champion new and the car was given to Ron after sitting fallow for several years. Ron lovingly restored the Studebaker and it became his pride and Joy winning multiple awards at local shows. 

Ron was predeceased by his Parents and Brother Alfred. He is survived by his Husband Arthur, Stepchildren Kristin Allen, Gregory Winch and Jeffrey Winch, Nephew James Rodriguez and Sister Lynda Rodriguez, Nieces Roxanne Vanderburg, Yvonne Craine, Lisa Regalado, Alicia Chavez, Nephew Anthony Torres and numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Ron was known as Papa to 12 Grandchildren and three Great Grandchildren. Ron served as a surrogate Grandfather to Stephen Griffin-Atil.

While he was a man of few words, Ron was quick witted and loved to laugh. He was loved by all who encountered him and will be missed dearly for the rest of our days.

Arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Long Beach, CA.