Robert A. de la Torre, a beloved figure in Santa Barbara and a sixth-generation resident, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at the age of 87. His death occurred at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital in Camarillo, California. Born on April 3, 1938, to Joseph B. de la Torre and Mary (Encinas) de la Torre, he was a member of a family deeply rooted in the region’s history.
De la Torre’s lineage traces back to his great-great grandmother, Maria de los Angeles Cota, whose family played a significant role in the founding of Santa Barbara in 1782. Maria was born in the Presidio in 1790 and later married Don Jose Joaquin de la Torre, a Spanish soldier who arrived with Father Junipero Serra in 1801.
A Life of Service and Adventure
Bob de la Torre’s journey began in local schools, including Harding Elementary, La Cumbre Junior High, and Santa Barbara High School. He pursued further education in business management at UCLA. Following high school, he began his career at General Telephone Company in 1956, where he spent over 38 years. His roles ranged from assistant draftsman to cable maintenance superintendent and ultimately supervisor over much of Southern California.
In 1959, Bob married Shirley Anne Belsaas in Santa Barbara. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Debbie, before relocating to Lompoc in 1963. After the birth of their second daughter, Jill, the family moved to Camarillo in 1967. Bob and Shirley shared a passion for travel, exploring numerous countries including Spain, England, and Italy, along with various culinary adventures through their close-knit Gourmet Group since 1996.
After the passing of his wife in 2008, Bob remained active, cherishing time with his grandchildren, attending concerts, and enjoying sports. Known for his friendly demeanor, he connected with neighbors and friends throughout his life, sharing his knowledge of sports with younger family members and local children.
Legacy and Final Arrangements
Bob is survived by his daughters, Debbie Dziuk and Jill Lomeli; grandchildren Kyle, Connor, Carson, Shilo, and Gavin; and great-grandchildren Nova, Xena, and Lyra. He is also remembered by his sister-in-law, Jackie de la Torre, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. His family intends to honor his memory by supporting the community he loved.
A service celebrating Bob’s life will take place at 10 a.m. on March 12, 2026, at Ivy Lawn Funeral Home, located at 1075 E. Daily Drive, Camarillo. A reception featuring coffee and donuts will precede the service at 9 a.m.. Following the service, a private interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Santa Barbara.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Boys Town, an organization dedicated to helping at-risk youth. Donations can be sent to Boys Town, 200 Flanagan Blvd., P.O. Box 6000, Boys Town, NE 68010-9988, or made online at boystown.org/spring.
Bob de la Torre’s warm spirit and dedication to his family and community will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
