Gilberto Torres

Gilberto “Gil” Torres, age 77, of San Diego, CA, by way of El Paso, TX, passed away on May 2, 2026, with his wife and daughters by his side. He was a man who measured his life not in accomplishments, but in relationships: the family he raised, the siblings and cousins who laughed the days away, the friends who gathered at the golf course, and the neighbors who knew he would always stop to say hello.

Born in El Paso, Texas, on August 29, 1948, Gil first chose to serve his country by enlisting in the Army and serving in the Vietnam War. Upon his return, Gil earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Law from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). He spent his working years first with the U.S. Postal Service and later with the Department of Homeland Security, where he retired after 25 years of service.

But those who knew him best remember him most for his ability to make friends anywhere and everywhere. He was social, funny, loyal, empathetic, smart, and caring. He loved to travel and not only gained passport stamps, but also left a friendship footprint in places like Canada, Mexico, Spain, Singapore, Italy, and beyond. He loved his country and his family deeply and wanted the best for both.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Anna Cris Torres; his daughters, Danielle Cristine Torres and Janell Nicole Torres; and his siblings, Rose Elizabeth Amaya and Benjamin Torres III. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa Avalos Torres; his father, Benjamin Torres Jr.; and his brother, David Avalos Torres.

A celebration of life will first be held on May 30 in Chula Vista, CA, at the family home, and again in late June in El Paso, TX. Please reach out directly to the family for details.

A Celebration of Life will occur on May 30, 2026 at a family home.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the San Diego Humane's Society.

https://secure.sdhumane.org/site/Donation2?mfc_pref=T&df_id=27533&27533.donation=form1

If you would like to send flowers, please ensure they are addressed to the family home.