Henry M. Torres Sr.

Henry Misaka Torres, Sr., was born in El Centro, California, January 23, 1920 to Petra Torres and George Misaka who met in Los Angeles, California.  

World War II broke out on December 7, 1941, and shortly thereafter in 1942 the family changed their name from Mikasa to their mother’s maiden name of Torres to avoid any prejudice towards Americans of Japanese ancestry.  Six months later in May of 1942 Henry enlisted in the Navy.  His knowledge as a toolmaker helped him achieve the rank of Firemen 1st Class.  He trained at Naval facilities in Norman, Oklahoma; Jacksonville, Florida and Fort Lauderdale, Florida from 1943 through 1945. Henry was a turret gunner during the war, but was not assigned to war duty.  

After the war he opened up his own business, the Power Center, it began as sales and service for Lawn and Garden equipment and was ran by Henry for over 40 years, tripling in size. 

Henry had three children; Diane, Marty and Merle; 

seven grandchildren: Marcus, Kimberly, Hank, Andrew, Danny, Matthew and Stuart

 seven great grand children: Kirsten, Jesse, Jordan, Madaliene, Kaesen, Charlotte and Piper.

He was a Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Grand Knight and worked with the organization for over 50 years.

Margaret died in August of 2010 after 65 years of a very successful marriage to leave Henry to be on his own until now.

Henry took great pride in his children, grand children, and great grandchildren and legacy of all.  He saw much progress through the 103 years he lived and always wished in his later years that he was about 10 years younger so he could enjoy them all.  He often commented that he felt the presence of Margaret and was faithful to visit her graveside as often as possible, especially the holidays and special dates like birthday, Mother’s day, Anniversary, Christmas and Easter.  

It was rare, that you would ever see Henry without a smile on his face, and a kind word for everyone, always helping the less fortunate and his faith in God.  

January 23 1920 - December 24 2023

A mass of the Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 10:00AM, St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ft. Lauderdale. Burial with military honors to follow at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery.