Aviano T. Torres

Aviano T. Torres, age 12, of Utica, went to live with the angels on Monday, September 17, 2007. His passing occurred in the comfort of his home with his devoted family by his side, after a courageous battle with Rhabdomyosarcoma. Born in St. Luke’s Hospital on June 8, 1995, Aviano is the son of Alexis Torres and Rochelle (Gaffey) Torres. He was also blessed with the love and guidance of his “Dad”, Christopher Jadwick. Raised and educated in Utica, Aviano graduated from Hugh R. Jones Elementary School and would have been a 7th grade student at James H. Donovan Middle School this year. A “golden egg”, Aviano matured to become a great young man with an intuitive nature. His respect and politeness was truly a blessing to his parents, and he was an adored brother to his siblings. He had a sensitive and kindhearted personality, and was always concerned about others, especially his family. During his illness he was brave, strong, and accepting. Others learned from his courage and fortitude while he endured the stages of his challenges. He loved fishing, outdoor activities and adventure, especially ‘anything that went fast’, including motorcycling and dirt biking with his dad Chris. His other favorite activities were playing pool (which he considered himself a semi pro), basketball, kickball, video games (especially Xbox 360), and watching Adam Sandler movies. A pizza fanatic, Aviano was very particular and would only eat the best- Tony’s Pizzeria. He always looked forward to summer because he enjoyed swimming, jet skiing, and boating. But above all, Aviano loved to be with his family at get-togethers and vacations. The Make-A-Wish Foundation offered him the opportunity to swim with the dolphins at Discovery Cove in Florida which was a dream come true. He received his sacraments at Historic Old St. John’s Church. Aviano is survived by his parents, Rochelle and Chris; and Alexis Torres; his siblings, Alex “Geju”, Candace, Shante, Shauna, Alyssa, Santia, Jovonna, and Amanie; and his grandparents, Ruth Gaffey, Sobeida Rodriguez, Bonnie Griffith, and John Jadwick. He also leaves his cousins, aunts, uncles, and lots of great friends, especially Dakota, and Danielle; and his canine sharpei and best friend, “Bear”. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Ralph Calicchia, and Delphine Colon. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to and are forever grateful for University Hospital, Syracuse, Pediatric Oncology Department, the Outpatient Department, and their devoted physicians and nurse practitioner Diane Groth; the entire staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, especially Dr. Afsar Khan; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; Laurie Fazekas of Lifetime Care who has made the last few months so bearable through the compassionate commitment of the organization; the Songs of Love Foundation; Rooms To Heal; and Rob Esche Save of the Day Foundation who enhanced his life experience. The family was blessed with the love and support of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially Navaz who charmed herself into Aviano’s heart. Thanks also to Fr. Buehler and Sister Sharon for their prayers and visits, the Columbus Community Church, the support of the Utica City School District, especially nurse Becky Kogut and her mother Marian Gerace, and to the many friendships who were unending and have endured the trials of Aviano’s illness, especially the Mazza family. The outpouring of support and generosity from the community, even those personally unknown to the family who have shared in donations of their heart will never be forgotten by Aviano’s family. Visitation will be held Thursday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Aviano’s funeral service will commence on Friday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Aviano T. Torres

June 8, 1995 - September 17, 2007