UTICA – Philip J. Torrens, 76, of Utica passed away on Jan. 15, 2023, at his residence. He was born on Feb. 23, 1946, in Mount Vernon to the late Joe and Mary Evelyn (Hotchkiss) Torrens.
Phil graduated from Utica High School in 1964 and Muskingum College in 1968. He went on to become a lifelong teacher, coach and farmer. His teaching career began at Utica High School. He moved on to Roosevelt Jr. High, followed by Newark High School. Phil ended his teaching career in 1988 at Wilson Jr. High. His 55-year coaching career began at Utica High School, moved on to Roosevelt Jr. High, followed by Newark High School. In 1979, Phil found his forever coaching home at Denison University, where he was head cross-country coach and assistant track coach. His Denison coaching career spanned 45 years where he mentored countless athletes with whom he kept in touch. He was the former president of the Utica EMS board and member of the Utica Presbyterian Church. Phil also served on the board of directors for United Producers, Incorporated for 26 years. He especially enjoyed his sheep, football and most of all, his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sarah (Richcreek) Torrens; daughter, Ellen (Cleve) Carter; grandsons, GC, Brooks and Landry Carter; granddaughter, Vanessa Carter; brother, John (Sherry) Torrens; niece, Lori (Cam) Drake; great-niece, Mollie Drake; and sister-in-law Norma Mercurio.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Joe Torrens; and his faithful dog, Bo.
Per his wishes, no public services will be held.
Current Denison head coach Mark FitzPatrick helped create an article that highlights Phil's Denison coaching accomplishments: denisonbigred.com/news/2023/1/17/general-denison-athletics-remembers-phil-torrens.aspx.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Utica EMS, P.O. Box 524, Utica, OH 43080, or a charity of your choice.
To sign an online guestbook, please visit Law-BakerFuneralHome.com.
