Carmen Torres

Carmen G. Torres was born in Chicago, Illinois, April 22, 1941. She died in the comfort of her home, with family present, March 10, 2009.

Carmen was an only child, raised by her mother, Marcela. She attended a Catholic all girls' school from kindergarten until graduating high school and going off to college in Champaign, IL. Carmen attended a few months before earning what she called her "M.R.S." degree, and married the love of her life James Ammons. They had a total of 4 children, unfortunately 2 of them died within a few days. They were a typical military family, raising their family at different military bases, until they divorced. It was a very tough time for this single mom with 2 pre-teen daughters and no work experience to speak of. Carmen worked a variety of jobs, before finding full time employment with Amway, working in the warehouse. She moved her family from a 2 bedroom apartment, finally being able to buy her 1st house, all by herself. Carmen was a proud, independent, single woman for many years. She retired from Amway & then became an attendance clerk utilizing her translating skills at Crawford Elementary.

Carmen was first diagnosed with colon cancer in 1999, under going many surgeries & chemotherapy. Although Carmen's body finally had enough, she was able to dance her way to heaven.

She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia Ammons (husband Manuel) and Catherine Castleman. Grand children Michael, Christopher, Edward (wife Valerie), Raechel, Anastasia, Heather & Josh. Great grand children, Rayne, Treytin, Ciera & Mikel. And her babies, Ginger & Cinnamon.