Blas Francisco Torres, 85, of Kansas City, passed away on July 3, 2023. He was born on March 4, 1938, in Camajuani, Cuba, to Pelayo Quirino and Estrella Eusebia Vega. Blas, affectionately known as Buri (Booty), had a remarkable life, full of achievements and love.
Buri was an Industrial Engineer who possessed a natural talent for fixing things and working with his hands. His love for the United States and his chosen home, Kansas City, ran deep since his arrival in November of 1963. Determined and resilient, he embraced the opportunities the country had to offer. Buri learned English, completed his education at the University of Missouri - Columbia, and built a life for himself and his family.
He dedicated 20 years of his career to AT&T as a product engineer. Following his tenure there, he joined First Bank of Gladstone, where he displayed his dedication to service by assisting customers and utilizing his mechanical skills to repair whatever needed fixing. Buri took pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.
Beyond his professional life, Buri's true passion lay in coaching boys' sports, with soccer being his specialty. In 1977, he embarked on a coaching journey that left an indelible mark on the lives of many young athletes. Buri's guidance and mentorship paved the way for numerous boys to enjoy successful high school and college soccer careers. His coaching philosophy embodied a blend of old-school principles, teaching his players not only to strive for victory but also to embrace defeat with respect. His players will remember his famous words - “no more mickey mousing around” and berets he would wear on the sidelines. Watching his players grow into accomplished adults brought him immense joy and fulfillment.
Buri's legacy extends to his beloved family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Silvia Torres, and his children and their spouses, Bernarda Schroer (Mike), Rosie Schlicht (Greg), and Tony Torres (Amy). Buri's adoring presence will be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Julia, Erica, Gabriel, Sophia, Miguel, Tanner, Mia, Manuel, Tate, Daniel, and Samuel. He also leaves behind his sister Toti Almedia, brother Pelayo Torres, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.
Blas Francisco Torres, or Buri, will forever be remembered for his exceptional dedication to his family, his professional accomplishments, and his impact on the lives of young athletes. He will be greatly missed and his memory cherished by all who knew him.
Memorial Visitation is 10:00 - 11:30 AM Saturday, August 5th, with Memorial Mass at 11:30 AM, with luncheon following services at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Kansas City, MO.
