Preston John Torrence

A loving husband and devoted father, Preston, at age 54, left this world with family at his side Monday, Feb. 15, 2010. He was a native of New Orleans and resident of Baton Rouge. With his beloved wife of 18 years and business partner, Karen, he owned and managed a medical billing service. He was an active member of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church and school community where he served on several committees, including the St. Thomas More Development Committee; taught junior achievement to 7th and 8th graders; and was a lector. Preston was also active in his community where he served several years on the board of his homeowner's association. He is survived by the love of his life, Karen Bruce Torrence; sons, Clayton William Sutherland and Keenan Ulrich Torrence; a brother, Ulrich Joseph Torrence and wife Jean; and a sister, Beryl Denise Torrence. He is also survived by godmother, Hester Langlois Paternostro; nieces and nephews, Tami Hadley, Evan Michael Hoppe, Maghan Rita Torrence and Ross Gerard Hoppe; and many others who called him uncle, cousin, "Pie-Man" and friend. He was a hero and mentor to many and will be missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Beryl Langlois Torrence and Ulrich Joseph Torrence; and godfather, Ludwig France. Visitation will be at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., on Friday, Feb. 19, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11441 Goodwood Blvd., on Saturday from 10 a.m. until a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Thomas Duhé. Interment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Associationor a charity of choice.