Rose Marie Torres

Rose “Marie” Torres peacefully passed through the gates of heaven after a 5 year courageous battle with breast cancer, on Thursday October 28, 2021. She was 59 years old. She was home and surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Altus, OK in 1962, “Marie” was the oldest daughter of Mary and Larry Mitcham, Sr. She graduated from Columbia River High School in Vancouver, WA in 1980. Marie was very active and involved and was a member of the dance team. She was a beautiful young lady, and her school spirit stayed with her throughout her life. As a young adult, Marie worked for Bonneville Power as an administrative assistant for 5 years, later moving to Salem, OR where she worked for the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Marie met her soulmate Ascencion (Chon) Torres, and they tied the knot in Reno, NV in 1996. They were excited to start a family of their own, and became pregnant with twins right away. Unfortunately, one of the twins miscarried early, and the other, baby girl Vanessa Anjelica, was stillborn. Although heartbroken, Marie never lost hope or faith in becoming a mother someday and raising a family.

Her Road to motherhood officially began between 2000-2005 when they adopted her sister’s son Vincent, and daughter America. Together, Marie and Chon raised them and loved them as their own. The Lord continued to bless them, and in the spring of 2004, they welcomed Halle, a beautiful baby girl that would complete their family.

Marie had so much love for all of her extended family, and did all she could to let them know she cared and that they were thought of. So often she took the time to call them on holidays or special occasions, just to check in and say hello. Family meant the world to Marie and she loved to talk on the phone, catching up, and just chatting. Marie had a great sense of humor and always had a smile. She was the most giving, loving person. She didn’t judge, but rather helped others and always saw the good in everyone.

Marie attended Lakepoint Community Church in Keizer and she had a strong faith in our Lord. It was that strong faith that kept her going as she struggled in her last years on earth. Marie fought her cancer as a true princess warrior, and yet, the cancer would not subside. It kept coming back and taking her a little more from us every day. Watching her struggle was very difficult and when she took her last breath, sadness hit, and yet, there was some feeling of joy. Joy that her suffering was over, she is no longer in pain, and is with her Savior and Lord in heaven, watching over us, with our other family members, who she dearly loved, in Heaven. Her children and family miss her dearly, and will forever hold her in their hearts.

Marie is survived by:
Her Husband of 25 years, Ascencion Torres, Son Vince, and daughters America and Halle.
Mother Mary Mitcham, father Larry Mitcham Sr. and stepmother Dora Juarez.
Sisters Cherie, Sylvia, Amelia and Gavina.
Brothers Joe, Larry, Amadeo, Noe and Abel.
Marie had many cherished aunts, uncles and cousins, and she had a special place in her heart for each of her 31 nieces and nephews, whom she loved as though they were here own.

There will be a public viewing held on Tuesday, November 16,, 2021, from 1:30-4:30 at Keizer Funeral Chapel, with a Celebration of Life being held on Wednesday, November 17 ,2021 @ 4:30 at Lakepoint Community Church in Keizer, OR. Reception to follow @ Keizer Civic Center, 930 Chemawa Rd NE.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Willamette Valley Hospice in Marie’s honor online at WVH.ORG. Their musical therapy program was very special to Marie and brought so much joy and comfort to her in the final months of her battle. Her family and friends would like to express their thanks and gratitude to her care team, as well as the entire staff at Willamette Valley Hospice.

Rest in paradise & fly high with the angels forever & always.