Arthur Edward TorrezWichita, KS

Arthur Edward Torrez, 76, passed away on February 24, 2026, at his home in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by his loved ones.

Art was born on January 13, 1950, in Hutchinson, Kansas, the son of John and Bessie (Navarro) Torrez.

He grew up in Hoisington, Kansas where he was a member of Hoisington High School class of 1968.  He continued his education by attending Pratt Community College on a football scholarship and graduated with his associate’s degree.  He then went on to graduate from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree. He was a member of the ATO Fraternity.

Arthur taught a variety of classes and subjects in El Dorado, Circle, and Wichita.  He also coached football, wrestling, and track.   He enjoyed being a wrestling official for 30 years.  His dedication to sport was highlighted in 2019, during the 5A-6A State Wrestling Tournament.  The Kansas Wrestling Officials Association awarded Arthur the Eldon Zimbelman Award, recognizing officials for their dedication & contributions to wrestling.

While Arthur was an Assistant Track Coach at Wichita South High School, he was recognized by the Kansas Cross Country Track and Field Coaches Association in 2015, naming him the Assistant Track Coach of the Year.

During Arthur’s 50 plus year career span as an educator, coach, mentor and friend, he shaped the lives of many future leaders.  His larger-than-life persona followed his trademark smile into every room.

Arthur was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Christine (Torrez) Salgado; daughter, Libby Torrez; and a nephew, Alex Tonche.  He is survived by his daughter, Jocelyn (John Wenner) Torrez, and grandsons, Joshua and Hunter. He married Naomi Jenkins in 1972, they later divorced.

Per Arthur’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A funeral mass will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Wichita, Kansas on April 11, 2026, at 10:30, a rosary will be said prior to the mass at 10:00.  A meal will follow the mass.  A private inurnment will take place in Hoisington.

Every year, Art bought school supplies that he donated to various schools for students in need.  In memory of Art and his passion for helping students, please make memorial contributions to a school of your choice by purchasing school supplies or by making a donation in his name for school supplies to be purchased and donated.  Donations can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502.

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