Jesus Torres Jr.

Jess was born in his childhood home on 3rd street, Hanford, California, which is now Highway 198, on October 1, 1932, to Jesus Sr. and Antonia Valadez Torres.

He attended Lincoln Elementary, Woodrow Wilson Jr High, and graduated from Hanford High School in 1951, during the Korean War. Jess made the decision to enlist into the Air Force, rather than waiting to be drafted. He spent one and a half years overseas in Japan and completed his active service in December 1955.

There was no job Jess was too good for. From his youth, he worked in the fields with his Dad and family and took on any available jobs. Jess was hired on to the Hanford Refuse Department on July 1, 1960. Later he would be the lead signer to unionize the workers. He completed 31 years with The City of Hanford Public Works Department as Refuse Supervisor.

Jess was married to his loving wife, Elizabeth (Betty Sigala), for 47 years and raised three children. He was active in his children's endeavors from Cub Scouts to Bobby Sox Coach. Later in life, he loved attending his grandkid's sporting events.

His hobbies included fishing, hunting, and woodworking, where he would build complete kitchen cabinets and other custom work out of his small garage. Sunday football was another passion of his and was a faithful Rams fan. He will also be remembered for his flaming hot salsa made from scratch using a molcajete.

To Jess family was everything. He adored his older brothers and sisters and was a uniter in keeping family close. He founded and hosted the annual Torres Family Reunion for over 30 years. Anyone could find a humble confidant in Dad, Grandpa, Uncle Jess, Brother, and friend. You could always count on him to lend a kind listening ear or helping hand. His loving heart was felt by all.

Jess is preceded in death by his parents, Jesus and Antonia Torres, beloved wife, Betty, and their son, Leonard. His seven siblings: Antonio, Luis, Angelita, Enedina, Serafin, Amelia, and Mary, and sisters-in-law: Rosemary Mendoza and Carolyn Sigala.

He is survived by his two daughters: Irene Treadwell and Magdalyn Perico (Lupe), son: Jesus Torres III, six grandchildren: Alessandra Magnia, Steve Ortega, Elizabeth Magnia-Wells (Jeff), Christopher Ortega, Luke Magnia, and lan Treadwell, three great-grandchildren: Jordan, Peyton, and Donovan. He also leaves behind two sisters-in-law, Helen Medrano (Manuel) and Linda Moran, and so many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, January 25th at 4:00 p. m. with Rosary to take place at 5:00 p. m. and reception to follow until 8:00 p. m. at People's Funeral Chapel; 501 N Douty St, Hanford. The Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 26th at 1:00 p. m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church; 10435 Hanford Armona Road, Hanford, Burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Family and Friends are invited to view Jess’ legacy at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com and write condolences.