On Tuesday, October 29, during a special City Council meeting, Mayor Paul Callaghan began with a moment of silence to remember longtime City Councilor Ralph W. Torr, who passed away on October 27, 2024, after a brief illness.
Born on August 8, 1931, in Rochester, he was raised on his family homestead by his parents, Franklin and Bernice Torr.
Ralph attended school in Rochester before enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1949. During the Korean War, he served in the Air Force Air Rescue Squadron, flying over 100 missions and helping to save countless lives. Highly decorated for his bravery, Ralph was deeply proud of his service to his country.
After returning home from Korea, he married Pauline Perron, the love of his life. They were first stationed in Tacoma, Washington, before moving to Cape Cod Air Station. Following a serious accident, Ralph returned home with Pauline and their two sons. After a year of recovery, he redirected his focus and became a pioneer in mobile home development in the region. Together with his brother Frank, he built Polly Ann Mobile Home Park in Dover, New Hampshire, before moving his family back to Rochester, where he developed West Wind Estates I and II.
Ralph dedicated himself to public service, representing Rochester in the New Hampshire House of Representatives for 16 years and serving as one of the longest-standing members of the Rochester City Council. He felt a deep commitment to the city, working tirelessly to advance Rochester with sensible, balanced progress. Known for his openness to diverse perspectives, Ralph valued good conversations and a shared laugh above all.
In his later years, he honored his family’s legacy by raising Hereford cattle on his farm, often amusing neighbors when his cows would roam in search of “Dad” before he led them back to the pasture. Ralph had a special connection with animals, and caring for them brought him great joy.
Ralph was predeceased by his beloved wife, Pauline, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage, as well as by his parents, Franklin and Bernice, and his brothers, Frank and David. He is survived by his children: Ralph Torr, Mark Torr, Wayne Torr and his wife Tricia, and his daughter Lynn and her husband Timothy Williams, along with 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Cornerstone VNA or Pope Memorial SPCA. There will be no calling hours. A private family burial will be held.
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