Julian "Happy" Torres

Julian "Happy" Torres passed away on Friday, October 31, 2014 at the age of 88. Predeceased by his loving wife of 68 years, Gilda. Born in Newark, NJ on December 26, 1925. He is survived by his son, Donald A. Torres and his partner, Mary Harrison; Grandchildren: Jennifer A. Torres, Rone Torres, Michael Torres and Alexis Torres; Daughter-in-law, Sonia Torres. Predeceased: son, Ronald Torres. Nieces and Nephews: Joe Sambataro, George Sambataro, Joanne Janik, Kevin Donovan, Jamie Donovan, Karen Donovan and Steven Donovan. Happy was a husband, brother-in-law, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, great uncle and friend to many special people in his life. He was a proud veteran who served as a Merchant Marine during WWII from 1942-1946 and served in all four theatres. Happy was a painting contractor working with his father John Torres for many years and D-J Tower Construction Company before retiring. He and his late wife provided temporary foster care for nine different children over the years until they were permanently placed in homes. Happy volunteered as a bus driver and provided a driving service for his neighbors for many years in his community of Cranford, NJ. He loved spending time with his late wife and family. He owned and spent countless hours on his boat enjoying weekend getaways throughout the NJ Atlantic Ocean for some 30 years. Happy was a member of the West End bowling league for over 50 years, also a repeated league champion in the American Bowling Congress. He retired at Cranford Senior Housing during the last 25 years where he enjoyed so many friends and neighbors. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and his memory and the love he shared will remain with us always.
Cryptside Services will be held at Hollywood Memorial Park in Union, NJ at 11:30AM Tuesday, November 4, 2014. Arrangements by Gray Funeral Directors, Cranford. Please go to www.grayfuneralhomes.com to view a tribute of Happy's life and to offer condolences .