Juan Bautista Torresola

Juan Bautista Torresola, 88, of Rochelle Park, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, Born in Cataño, Puerto Rico, Juan was a proud graduate of Miguel Such High School in Río Piedras. At just 18 years old, he came to the United States and made Paterson, New Jersey his home for the next seven decades.

A passionate advocate for community, education, and public service, Juan built a life devoted to lifting others. He earned credentials from The Professional School of Business (Real Estate Program), The Electronic Computer Programming Institute, and pursued further studies at Rutgers University. His dedication to service was reflected in every chapter of his life.

Juan held numerous leadership roles throughout Paterson and Passaic County, including his tenure as Commissioner of Paterson, and as Director of Passaic County Housing, a position he held for over 30 years. He was a strong voice for the Hispanic community, serving as Grand Marshal for the Pan-American Parade organized by the San Juan Fiesta Committee, and founding the United Hispanic Organization of Paterson in 1968—an enduring legacy of empowerment and unity.

His deep faith guided his service. In 1965, he served as President of the Holy Name Society at the Church of Our Lady of Victories. He was also a Trustee of both the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, and held key roles in the St. John's Parish Council, School Advisory Board, and Paterson Safety Commission.

A skilled communicator, Juan also served as the Public Relations lead for Impacto, a Spanish-language newspaper published in Paterson. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Multi-Lingual Center and President of the 1978 Puerto Rican Day Parade of Paterson.

Juan was predeceased by his beloved parents, Frank and Marianna Torresola, several brothers and sisters, his cherished daughter Narcisa, and granddaughter Tiffany.

He is survived by his loving sister Lourdes Hecht; his children; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren; as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry forward his legacy.

Juan Bautista Torresola leaves behind a remarkable legacy of public service, cultural pride, and unwavering faith. His memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.

Rest in Paradise and Eternal Peace