Today we gather to celebrate and remember the life of Manuel “Colonel” Swartz Torres, a man whose 89 years were filled with love, hard work, faith, and dedication to his family and community.
Manuel was born on September 16, 1936, in Deming to his parents, Agapito and Adela Torres. From the very beginning, his life was rooted in family, values, and the community he would continue to serve throughout his life.
One of the greatest blessings of his life was his marriage to the love of his life, Natalia “Goodie” Gavaldon Torres. They were married on May 31, 1955, and shared 70 beautiful years together. Their marriage was a true example of commitment, partnership, and love that lasted a lifetime. Together they built a strong and loving family.
Manuel was a proud father to his children: George Torres and his wife Charmaine, Gina Rodriguez and her husband Elaman, and Albert Torres and his wife Donna. His family continued to grow with fifteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, along with an honorary grandchild, Nicole Hernandez. His legacy lives on through each of them.
Throughout his life, Manuel was known for his incredible work ethic. He dedicated 25 years of service working for the New Mexico State Highway Department, where he took pride in the work he did for his community. After retiring, he continued serving others by working at Baca’s Funeral Chapel for approximately 12 years as maintenance and a transporter. Even beyond that, he was always willing to help, working as a handyman for many of his elder friends who depended on him.
But out of all the jobs he held, the one he loved most was being a skilled carpenter. With his hands, he built more than just wood and structures—he built memories, helped others, and left behind a lasting mark of craftsmanship and care. He even used those skills to help remodel churches in his hometown, giving back through his faith and his talents. It was one of the many ways he quietly served both his community and God.
Outside of his work, Manuel had simple joys that made him smile. He had a love for sweets—especially cookies—which many of his family and friends will fondly remember. Those little moments, sharing treats, laughter, and time together, are memories that will always stay with us.
Manuel was preceded in death by his parents, Agapito and Adela Torres; his brothers Agapito, Raymond, Ruben, Eddie, and George, who was missing in action during the Korean War; his sisters Della, Lumina, Eloisa, and Erlinda; and his son-in-law Pete “Cookie” Gallosa Jr. Being the last to pass among his siblings reminds us of the long journey he lived and the many stories, memories, and traditions he carried with him.
Those who knew Manuel describe him as an awesome, hardworking, patient, kind, friendly, wise, loving, and humble Man of God. These words truly reflect the life he lived. He didn’t just talk about values—he lived them every single day. He showed love through his actions, wisdom through his guidance, and faith through the way he treated others.
He was someone people could rely on. Someone who worked hard without complaining. Someone who helped others simply because it was the right thing to do. His humility, kindness, and strength made a lasting impact on everyone around him.
Today we also recognize those who will carry him to his final resting place. His pallbearers are George Torres, Jaime Gallosa, Albert M. Torres, Jimmy Galindo, Derek Baeza, and Gio Gallosa. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Albert Gavaldon, Ernest Gavaldon, Frank Gallosa, Tony Ben Rodriguez, Danny Bustamante, and Leo Lopez. Each of these individuals represents the love, respect, and admiration so many had for Manuel.
Although we feel deep sadness in losing him, we also celebrate a life well lived. Manuel leaves behind a powerful legacy — one of family, faith, service, and love. The lessons he taught, the values he showed, and the love he gave will continue to live on in all of us.
As we remember Manuel “Colonel” Swartz Torres today, let us hold on to the stories, the laughter, the wisdom, and the example he set. Let us honor him by continuing to care for one another, work hard, stay humble, and keep our faith strong — just as he did.
Manuel will always be loved, always remembered, and never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Visitation will begin on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 10 to 11 o’clock in the morning at Baca’s Funeral Chapel, with a funeral service to commence at 11. The final interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Pastor Obed Rivera will be officiating.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Manuel "Colonel" Swartz Torres, please visit our floral store.
