2025 SESSION

INTRODUCED

25105503D

SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 321

Offered January 28, 2025

Celebrating the life of Rafael Torrech III.

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Patron—Craig

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WHEREAS, Rafael Torrech III of Virginia Beach, a longtime member of the ship repair industry and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died on November 9, 2024; and

WHEREAS, born in Brooklyn, New York, Rafael “Ralph” Torrech spent much of his youth in Puerto Rico before returning to the United States at the age of 12; and

WHEREAS, Ralph Torrech served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps and was a proud patriot throughout his life; after his military service, he continued to support national defense as an employee of Norfolk Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Corporation for 35 years; and

WHEREAS, Ralph Torrech subsequently established Técnico Corporation, an employee-owned provider of ship repair support services that has become a recognized leader in the maritime and industrial industries of Hampton Roads; and

WHEREAS, outside of his career, Ralph Torrech supported the community by offering his wise insights to local charitable organizations, and he and his wife, Patsy, played a critical role in the establishment and development of the Cancer Care Foundation of Tidewater; and

WHEREAS, Ralph Torrech enjoyed fellowship and worship with the congregation of First Baptist Church Norfolk, where he sang in the choir and supported worldwide ministry programs; and

WHEREAS, Ralph Torrech will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his beloved wife of 71 years, Patsy; his children, Michael, Larry, and Vicky, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Rafael Torrech III, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and a highly admired resident of Virginia Beach; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Rafael Torrech III as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.