Joseph "John" Torlai

Joseph ‘John’ Torlai, 95, of Torrington, CT, passed away Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital.  He was the husband of the late Margaret “Peggy” (Coveney) Torlai, and of the late Mary (Brower) Torlai.

John was born June 23, 1925, in Fosciandora, Province of Lucca, Italy, son of the late Amadeo and Josephine (Bonugli) Torlai.  He served his country with the US Army. Prior to moving to Connecticut he was the owner of the Royal Bowling Alley in Boston MA. He was employed by the City of Torrington as a custodian until his retirement.  A devout Catholic, he was a member of the St. Peter Holy Name Society, a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and a communicant of St. Peter Church.  He enjoyed working in his vegetable garden, hunting, fishing and sailing.

He is survived by two sons, James Torlai of Naugatuck, CT, David Torlai and wife Jane of Torrington, CT; two daughters, Mary Rae of Naugatuck, CT, Debra Torlai of Torrington, CT; grandchildren Wayne Rae and wife Loreville-Antonette of Waterbury, CT, Stephen, Katie, and Jackie Torlai of Torrington, and great-grandson Michael Rae of Naugatuck, CT, one stepdaughter, Doreen Jamieson of Portland, ME; three stepsons, Thomas Brower of Charlotte, NC, Robert Brower of Gardner, MA, Mark Brower of Worcester, MA, several step grand and great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews, and his care companion Elisa Rodrigues.  He was preceded in death by two sons, Joseph and Michael.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, with the cortege leaving at 10:30 a.m. from Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT to St. Peter Church (St. John Paul the Great Parish) 99 East Main St., Torrington, CT for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow at St. Francis New Cemetery.  Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home. Relatives and friends are reminded to follow CDC recommendations for COVID prevention.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John Paul the Great Academy, 360 Prospect St., Torrington, CT 06790 or to the charity of the donor’s choice.  Condolences may be sent to Joe’s family by visiting www.cookfuneralhomect.com