Morris “Moe” Torres

Morris “Moe” Torres, 70, of Rio Rancho, NM, passed away August 23, 2026, at the University of New Mexico Hospital.

Moe was born September 1, 1955, in Antigo, WI, to Moises Torres and Jovita Rodriguez Torres. He attended Firth High School and later proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Moe continued his education at Idaho State University, where he earned an associate’s degree in mechanical technology. He went on to build a successful career as a Senior Project Manager and Supervisor, working at INEL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Sandia National Laboratories.

On September 3, 1993, he married Carol Poole in Idaho Falls, ID. Moe was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Family was an important part of his life, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and sharing with them some of the things he loved, including fishing. He was a wonderful brother to his siblings and the “cool uncle” to his nieces and nephews.

Moe had a lifelong love of golf and could often be found on the golf course several times a week. He also enjoyed classic cars, listening to oldies music, and spending summers in Idaho with family and friends. His faith in God was important to him. He was the happiest surrounded by the people he loved sharing stories, cracking jokes, enjoying a few beers, and doing a little bullshitting. Moe’s presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Moe is survived by his wife, Carol Torres of Rio Rancho, NM; daughter, Vanessa (Brad Hughes) Torres of Chattanooga, TN; stepson, Brandon (Joanie) Gerlach of Dewey, AZ, stepson, Jeremy (Kim) Gerlach of Grand Junction, CO, stepdaughter, Katie (Eric Vigil) Gerlach of Rio Rancho, NM; brother, Rick Torres of Boise, ID, brother, Paul Torres of Idaho Falls, ID, brother, Joel (Kallena) Torres of Rio Rancho, NM, brother, Benny (Penny) Torres of Firth, ID, sister, Olivia Wernette of Firth, ID, sister, Naomi Sandoval of Bonne Terre, MI; and grandchildren, Luke, Lucie, Caleb, Conner, Kalayha, and Elly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Moises and Jovita Torres; brothers, Joe Torres, and Victor Torres; brothers-in-law, Fred Sandoval, and Ken Wernette; and sister-in-law, Barbara Torres.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2026, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road. The family will visit with friends Friday from 1-1:45 p.m. prior to the services. Burial will be in the Shelley Hillcrest Cemetery. Military Honors will be performed by the American Legion Post 93 and Idaho Honor Guard.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.