Miguel Torres Jr.

Miguel Torres Jr. passed away on June 22, 2025, at the Veterans Home in Montrose, New York, at the age of 80. He was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on February 23, 1945, to Placida Rodríguez and Miguel Torres Sr.

He lived many of his early adulthood years in the Bronx before eventually moving to Croton-on-Hudson, then to Ossining, where he remained for many years. He spent his final years in Croton once again, surrounded by those closest to him.

Miguel was a proud veteran, having served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1969.

He was known for his daily MacGyver skills—able to rig, fix, or figure out just about anything using whatever was within reach. From cars to random household repairs, Miguel could turn a handful of spare parts into a solution no one else would’ve thought of. He was also a keeper of knowledge and random facts and always had a nugget of wisdom to share—whether you asked for it or not.

He had a deep love for animals and was often found feeding raccoons, foxes, or whatever wildlife wandered into his yard. He believed showing kindness to God’s creatures might earn him a little grace at the gates of heaven—perhaps a quiet recognition of the things he carried in this life.

He is survived by his wife, Theresa, and by his children: Miguel Jr., Sally, Liza, Frances, Christina, and Margaret. He also leaves behind many grandchildren who knew him as a loving and lively grandfather—as it should be.

Miguel enjoyed music and dancing, and he loved to gamble—lotto tickets, racetracks, dog races—anything with a potential payout had his undivided attention. He smoked cigarettes like they were keeping him alive, and we actually believe this might have been true. He had an obsessive relationship with comfort foods: a good hot dog straight from the truck, a soft meatball sandwich, a classic New York slice, or his favorite, a steak.

If you were stopping by, you’d better bring him something to eat or be prepared to go fetch it.

Though he could be very tough and set in his ways, Miguel had a sharp sense of humor and a presence that could never be ignored. He will be remembered for his strength, stubbornness, and the unfiltered authenticity that made him impossible to forget.

A Memorial Service in his memory will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM where a service will begin at 5:30 PM at Edward F. Carter Funeral Home,41 Grand Street,Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520.