Mario Torrez

Mr. Mario Torrez, 66, passed away Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at his residence. Mario was born in Saginaw, MI to the late Manuel Torrez and Remedios Hernandez Torrez who survives. He lived most of his life in Elon, NC and East Lansing, MI. Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Margaret Emerson Torrez; daughter Marrissa Ortiz-Torrez and husband Ramon of Burlington; son, Miguel Torrez and wife Theresa of Alexandria, VA; grandchildren, Mateo Asher, Micah Isaiah, Eli Salaam and Kala Paz; brother, Arturo Torrez and wife Elvia; sister, Maria Yolanda Torrez; father and mother-in-law, Richard and Aletha Emerson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard and Kathy Emerson, Robert and Kim Emerson, Peter and Terri Emerson; as well as many loving nieces, nephews and extended family members. Mario grew up in Christianity and throughout his life sought to encourage and mentor many people inside and outside of the faith. One of his greatest accomplishments was raising his children and having grandchildren. He was a retired public school teacher who received his Bachelor and Masters in education from Central Michigan University, and was a member of Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity. He loved teaching, and instilled positivity and encouragement into children from elementary school through high school. Mario also dedicated most of his life to athletics, which allowed him to coach teams, train individuals, as well as mentor and create long-lasting relationships of encouragement. He was inducted into the Powerlifting Hall of Fame both in NC and MI. Mario and Marge enjoyed spending time together and traveling with family and friends, especially to warm beaches. The family would like to send a special thank you to Westside Fellowship Church for their love and support, as well as to all teachers and nurses everywhere. God bless you all! The memorial service will be held at 11:00am Saturday, October 27, 2012 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel by Pastor Mike Mitchener. The visitation will take place following the service. Memorials may be made to Westside Fellowship Church, PO Box 455, Elon, North Carolina 27244; or to the Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923.