Joseph Ray Torres, Tehananti•yá•ks (he goes through the town), age 61, passed away from complications due to kidney failure on June 6, 2026. He was born on April 16, 1965, in Green Bay, WI to Manuel and Alice (Denny) Torres Sr. Joseph grew up in Oneida, WI and graduated from West De Pere High School.

In Joseph’s adult years, he embraced the challenge of returning to higher education and proudly earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Green Bay in 2023. During that time, he was employed as a student outreach specialist for the Oneida Bird Monitoring Program which became a regular staff position after graduation. He always had good things to say about his co-workers and the work they did. He was a self-proclaimed “bird nerd.” He also interned and then became a volunteer at the UWGB Pride Center where he enjoyed spending his time not only chatting with staff and students, but helping with summer camps, events, and so much more. In 2026, he received a Lavender Leadership Award from the Pride Center for all of his work in the community.

Joseph was known for his sense of humor and the tremendous amount of love he had for his family and friends. He was passionate about his advocacy work in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and showed his business and design skills on his turtle island and two spirit merchandise.

Joseph is survived by Mother Alicia Torres, Linda Torres (Richard Ackley), Mike Torres, Nancy Torres, Bill (Sandy) Torres, Joanne Torres (Greg Jacobs), Carol Torres, Karen Torres, Ricardo Torres, numerous nieces and nephews, and his cat Taz. He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Alice Torres, brother Jesse Torres, sister Susan Torres, sister Judy Torres, nephew Ricky Torres and niece Krystal Torres-Smith.

Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home 305 N Tenth Street, De Pere from 3:00PM Thursday, June 11, 2026. Oneida Hymn Singers will sing at 6:30PM followed by a time of stories and tributes to Joseph at 7:00PM. Visitation will continue at 8:00AM on Friday at the Oneida Longhouse until time of service at 10:00AM. Burial will follow at Oneida Sacred Burial Grounds.