Josefina Lucia Torrez

Josefina Lucia Torrez, 89, of Topeka, passed away on Sunday, August 1, 2010 at a Topeka care facility after a battle with cancer. She was born on June 26, 1921 in Spearville, the daughter of Cristobal and Maria Padilla Hernandez. She graduated from Spearville High School.

Josefina had resided in Great Bend for many years before moving to Topeka. While living in Great Bend, she was employed as a manager for the Golden Belt Grill. She was also a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church where she was a member of the Alter Society and the Daughters of Isabella. She was also very active in the community.

Josefina married Jess Torrez on September 28, 1948 in Larned. He survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Maria (Ray) Torrez Anderson of Topeka; one daughter-in-law, Patricia Torrez of Topeka; four grandchildren: Jeff, Chris, Trisha and Tory; four great-grandchildren: Courtney, Erica, Madison and Addison, and her siblings: Loreto Sanchez, Antonia, Fidel, Chris and Benny Hernandez all of Denver and Mary Shafer of Florida. Josefina was preceded in death by one son, Jesse J. Torrez, two brothers, Jose and Sam Hernandez and one sister, Virginia Hernandez.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 28, 2010 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend. Private inurnment will take place in Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 1421 Holland St., Great Bend, KS 67530. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com.