MADISON – José Luis “Frenchie” Torres, age 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 11, 2018 at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. He was born on May 27, 1937 in Caguas, Puerto Rico to parents, José Santana and Maria Esperanza (Maymi) Torres, was raised until age 9 in Puerto Rico and until age 18 in New York City.

José graduated from high school then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1955, where he was an Aircraft Mechanic, until he was honorably discharged in 1959. After his military career, he settled in Madison, where he met and married Darline H. Knight. While together, they brought into the world three angels, Dolly Marie Torres (Jim Mickelson), Jo A. Hellenbrand (Jeff), and Maria E. Frederick (Todd), who blessed him with grandchildren and great grandchildren who he loved and adored.

The past 37 years, José shared his life with his love, Linda Tygum, who loved and cared for him to the very end. José had many friends he enjoyed spending Friday Fish Fry with, at Roadside Grill with his favorite host, Peter and staff. José adored his niece, Rosa Lopez and nephew, Jr. from NYC.

In his lifetime, José worked as a Letter Carrier for the U.S. Postal Service as well as a Driver for Badger Coaches, where he met many friends.

José was preceded in death by his parents; sister; brother; great-grandson, Elija K. Abel; and his “brother from another mother” Joe Meicher.

A very special thanks to the UW Carbone Cancer Center, where he had fabulous care from Dr. Sam Lubner, Dr. Sharon Weber and the entire staff. Also a big thank you for the care he received at the Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 27, 2018 at Roadside Grill, 6317 Rostad Cir., Windsor, WI 53598. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home

& Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

Madison, WI

608-249-8257

Jose Torres

May 27, 1937 - May 11, 2018

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