Vincent "Nene" Ruelas Torres

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Vincent “Nene” Ruelas Torres, who departed this life peacefully at the age of 91 in Keller, Texas. A man of deep wisdom, gentle joy, and unwavering devotion to his family and community, Vincent lived a life rich in meaning, service and love.

Born in Malakoff, Texas on June 19, 1933, to Vicente L. and Manuela Torres, where he was raised for most of his childhood until his family moved to Dallas, Texas later in his adolescence. Vincent attended Crozier Technical High School where he represented the Wolves as the school’s first Hispanic cheerleader before graduating in 1952. Shortly after graduation, Vincent answered the call to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Army and rose to Corporal in his section before being honorably discharged in 1955.

After his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Texas – an experience that ignited his passion for the Longhorns and laid the foundation for his long career in banking and accounting. In his professional life, Vincent was known for a man of integrity, calm leadership and commitment to helping others. His career took him through various leadership roles in banking in Dallas: Merchants State Bank, Texas American Bank and lastly at NorthPark National Bank where he served as Associate Vice President for 24 years before joining the Internal Revenue Service in 1986 until his retirement in 1997.

But beyond his service to his country and work, Vincent loved to serve his community and practice his faith, answering the call to do more and be more. Vincent was active in the American GI Forum and the Knights of Columbus Dallas Diocese Chapter. He was a devoted parishioner at St. Mary of Carmel Catholic Church where he shared his voice and his energy as a member of the choir for over 45 years. His service to the Catholic Diocese of Dallas was recognized in 2014 at a special service at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe where he received the Bishop’s Award for Service to the Church.

He loved to sing and dance, and he brought joy wherever he went. His voice carried warmth, and his laughter invited others in. Whether it was around the dinner table, on the dance floor or singing in the choir, Vincent had a way of making every moment feel like a celebration. He was the heart of his family – a source of strength, compassion, and endless love. His stories will be passed down, his advice remembered, and his joyful spirit carried on by all who know him.

Vincent was preceded in death by his beloved parents Vicente L. and Manuela Torres, brothers Rodolfo, Alejandro, Marcos, Roy Brown and sisters Felisa, Herlinda.

Vincent is survived by a family who loved and admired him deeply, and who will continue to honor his legacy in the way they live, love and celebrate life.

A visitation for Nene will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Gonzalez Funeral Home, 3050 N STEMMONS FWY, DALLAS, TX 75247.