Rafael "Charlie" Torres Jr.

Charlie graduated from Alta Loma High School in 1986 and earned an AA degree from Chaffey College.

Charlie was a man of steady kindness, genuine empathy, and keen intelligence; qualities that shaped the way he moved through the world and the way others experienced his presence. He valued connection and family, and he met his wife, Ellen, through his cousin Lisa, a beginning that became an enduring part of his life’s story.

He worked for several years for Alpha Beta grocery stores and at UPS. Charlie found enjoyment in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. Some of his favorite things to do were camping, fishing, photography, and working on computers. His interests reflected both curiosity and appreciation for the world around him, and he loved spending time at the beach and in the mountains.

Charlie had a passion for music and liked to say he had an “eclectic” collection. Some of his favorite artists were Bruce Springsteen, Jewel, Black Sabbath, and Paul Simon. He loved 80’s music, 70’s classic rock, country, and even Celtic music. Among his favorites, Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run held a special place in his heart. Charlie would always sit you down to listen to the lyrics and discover the deeper meaning of a song. He also had a knack for changing the words to make any song inappropriate, then joking, “that’s what the artist wanted to say but the FCC wouldn’t allow it.”

Charlie especially enjoyed Los Monitos tacos and enchiladas. He also loved movies, with favorites including Blade Runner and Dune.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen Torres; his sister Kathie Solano and her husband Chuck Solano; his brother Ralph Torres and his wife Eileen Torres; his sister Jenna Gracia; and his cousins Lisa Ybarra, Nicholas Ybarra, and Renee Linares. He also leaves behind a combined 24 nieces and nephews and 31 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Charlie was preceded in his passing by his parents, Ralph and Eleanor Torres; his brother, Chris (Christopher) Torres Sr.; and his aunt, Tina Ybarra.

Charlie was truly loved and respected by so many. His kindness, humor, wisdom, and love for family left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Elks Lodge, 1150 W 4th St, Ontario, CA 91762, on July 11, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.