Harry I. Torrey

MANCHESTER CENTER — Harry Irving Torrey, 84, died Jan. 26, 2012, at his home in Surprise, Ariz.

He was born in Worcester, Mass., Oct. 5, 1927, and was educated at Burr & Burton Seminary in Manchester Center.

He joined the Navy at age 17 and served two and a half years as a gunner’s mate.

Mr. Torrey returned to Manchester where he began employment with Central Vermont Public Service Corp. He retired in 1984 from New England Telephone Co. after serving in many positions.

He was a past president of Manchester Lions Club, a member of Vermont Trailblazers Snowmobile Club and Fraternal Order of the Eagles, as well as a lifetime member of VFW Post 6471.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, snowmobiling, gardening, traveling in his RV and NASCAR. He was an avid reader and fan of Jeopardy.

Survivors include his wife, Cecile Hilliard Torrey, whom he married July 24, 1945; two daughters, Brenda McDonald of Thorne Bay, Alaska, and Pamela Stiles of Whitehall, Pa.; a son, Brett Torrey of Manchester Center and Cheshire, Conn.; a nephew; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

The celebration of his life will be held at a later date in Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics, 1133 19th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (www.specialolympics.org/tributes); or Manchester Eagles Club, Manchester Center, VT 05255.