Obituary of John Henry Torau

A resident of Chatham, formerly of Windsor, John Torau passed away peacefully with his wife by his side, on Friday, April 24, 2020 at the Chatham-Kent Hospice. Born in Windsor, John was the son of the late Stephen & Katherine (nee Ehl) Torau. Dearly missed by his wife Betty Lou (nee Dusten) and late wife, Anna (nee Tippel). Remembered always by his children; Christine Lytle, Melissa Malo, John Torau Jr (Alicia), and by his grandsons; Quinton (Raechelle) & Ryan Lytle, Tristan & Brennan Malo, Milo Torau, and great-grandsons; Grayson & Ciel. Predeceased by his father-in-law, Jim Dusten. Survived by his mother-in-law Jean Dusten (nee Edwards) and brother-in-law, Roy Dusten (Wendy). John is survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family. Early in John’s life, music became a lifelong passion. During his time as a Sergeant in the Armed Forces, starting in 1957, he was a member of the Windsor Army Regiment Band and a proud member of the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RCEME). He earned a CD medal for his time in the Armed Forces. John then began his teaching career. Starting in Windsor he taught at Gordon McGregor Elementary School. He then moved on to Blenheim District High School where he began their first Instrumental Music Program and Concert Band, and then moved to Chatham Kent Secondary School, starting up their first Marching Band and traveling with the students from California all the way to the Calgary Stampede. John retired from teaching in 1997. In his spare time, John enjoyed playing in the 5 piece Band, Die Rhinelanders, as well as building model ships and planes, and also spending time with his family. In keeping with John’s wishes, a Private Family Interment will take place in Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim with a Celebration of Life to occur in the future. Online condolences may be left for the family and donations may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation through the Funeral Home website (www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com). McKinlay Funeral Home 459 St. Clair Street Chatham 519 351 2040