Tony M. Torres was born on January 17, 1923 in Redlands, California to Soledad Martinez Torres and Leonardo Torres, both from Mexico. He was one of 9 children and spent his 100 years living where they grew up - the beautiful Redlands, California.
Tony was a veteran of the US Army and served in World War II. During his time with the military, he was stationed in the Philippines. He received Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two bronze stars, Good Conduct medal and World War II Victory Medal. After his service, he was an aircraft mechanic at Norton Air Force Base, from where he retired. He was also a self-made carpenter.
He was one of the original charter members of American Legion Post 650 in Redlands. In addition, he assisted the building of Redlands Airport and even a few homes in the area.
He loved camping, inventing things, fixing things. He loved going to the legion every Friday to hang out with his friends. He loved the Dodgers, Rams and Lakers. He loved his family with all of his heart.
He is predeceased by his parents, his wife Annie M. Torres, His children: Mercedes Torres Candelaria and Margaret Torres; grandchild Lynrae Belmontez and six of his beloved siblings.
He will be forever missed by his son Raymond Belmontez; siblings Richard Torres and Dolores Cruz; 4 grandchildren: Jeanette Dye, Phyllis Yepez, Angel Belmontez and Raymond Belmontez Jr ; 9 great grandchildren; 13 great great grandchildren.