Gabriel Fortunato Torre passed away peacefully on September 12, 2024, with his son at his bedside and his daughter on the phone at Discovery Village (formerly Heartis) Clear Lake Senior Living in Webster, Texas. Gabriel was born in February 1931 to Fred (Fortunato Giuseppe) and Rose (de Benedictus) Torre. Gabriel was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sarah Patricia (Quinlan) Torre, known as Pat, with whom he shared 69 wonderful years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Andrew Torre, and wife, Marina (née Dallai), and his sister, Catherine (Torre) Steka Siegal.

He is survived by his son, Paul R. Torre, and wife, Ana of Houston, Texas, and his daughter, Lisa Torre Elliott, and husband, Craig of Storrs, Connecticut. Gabriel also leaves behind five grandchildren: Alexis Torre and her husband, Thomas Key; Paul G. Torre and his wife Elise; Michael Torre and his wife Kelcee; Sarah Patricia Elliott and Rebecca Elliott, as well as three great-grandchildren: Lily, Alice, and James. Known affectionately as “Coach,” Gabriel cherished his role as a loving grandfather and great-grandfather.

Gabriel’s journey began at Cliffside Park High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Pat. Their love story, often likened to the classic song ‘Strangers in the Night,’ was a testament to their enduring affection. Gabriel frequently recounted how Pat pursued him until he proposed, a tale that reflected their 75 years of shared love and partnership. Both Gabriel and Pat were known for their vibrant personalities and their ability to light up any room with their presence.

After raising their family in Paramus, New Jersey, and living in Washington Township then, Ramsey, Gabriel, and Pat moved to Seabrook, Texas, in 1994. Gabriel was an active member of the local political scene throughout his adult life, contributing to the Republican Party in various capacities. His career spanned the industrial textile and electronic industries, and he also owned several dry cleaners in New Jersey.
Gabriel was a man of diverse talents and interests, a true embodiment of the belief that ‘Life is the World’s Greatest Adventure.’ He playfully referred to himself as Count Gabriel Torre de Benedictis, a nod to his Italian heritage. His life was a vibrant tapestry, with roles as an artist, salesman, entrepreneur, fashion designer, inventor, blue water sailor, chef, and self-styled Renaissance man. His adult adventures, from a close-knit Italian family in New York City/New Jersey to a vibrant life in New Jersey and then to a Houston suburb, are a testament to his passion and zest for life. His journey is a source of inspiration for all of us.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the staff at Discovery Village (Heartis) Clear Lake for their compassionate care and to Magnolia Hospice Care for their support during Gabriel’s final months. Your dedication and care made a significant difference in Gabriel’s life, and we are forever grateful for your commitment and service. Your service has been invaluable and greatly appreciated.

A private celebration of Gabriel’s life will be held via Zoom for family and friends to honor and share Gabriel’s life and the impact he had on all of us. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to ASPCA.org or your local animal shelter in recognition of Gabriel’s love for dogs. His passion for animals was further reflected in his self-published book about his beloved dog, Patches.