NAUGATUCK — Edward A. Torla, 94, a resident of Naugatuck, passed away peacefully on Sept. 22, 2017 at Glendale Center in Naugatuck.
Edward was born to Jacob and Aniela Torla on Oct. 24, 1922 in New York City. He is predeceased by his two older brothers, Frank and Stanley, both of New York. Edward attended St. Stanislaus School and then Murray Technical High School in New York.
In January of 1943, Edward joined the U.S. Army Air Force and was granted an honorable discharge in May 1945, having achieved the rank of technical sergeant. As a member of a lead crew in the 848th Bombardment Squadron, 490th Bombardment Group, he was recognized for his highly successful participation in 30 missions over enemy-occupied Europe. When Edward relayed a story of his military service, he always ended the story by saying, “There were over two hundred holes in the plane and they missed me!” He was recognized for his outstanding record as lead radio operator/side gunner on both B-24 and B-17 Aircraft.
Edward had the good fortune to marry the girl of his dreams and wife of 60 years, Mary, on June 30, 1945. They were awesome polka dancers and amazing partners in life. They both had sweet smiles and a sunny demeanor.
Edward’s passion for fishing and hunting lead him to open a sporting goods and hobby store in Naugatuck, known as “Ed’s Hobby House.” Many model airplanes, cars and trains were carefully wrapped at Christmas for the children in town. He was also employed by Risdon Manufacturing from 1963 to 1984. He was hardworking and determined to provide and care for his family.
He was kind, respectful, honest and self-reliant. He was known as a gentleman who was humble about his accomplishments in the military and otherwise. He had courage in life to endure whatever came his way. He deeply felt the loss of his wife in 2005 and then his son, Stephen in 2010 and so he considered himself blessed to have extensive years in his life.
Edward is survived by his daughter, Joan Dulski, son-in-law, Gerald and their son, Jay, of New Canaan. He is also survived by grandchildren, Matthew, Jordan and Emily Torla.
If you had the privilege of knowing Edward then you know he was a great man. He will surely be missed by loving family members and his extended family at Glendale Center.
Edward will be laid to rest at the family plot in New Canaan in a private ceremony. Services are entrusted to the Buckmiller Thurston Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck.
To leave an online condolence, visit www.buckmillerthurstonmengacci.com.
