With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Carmen Torres Banuelos, who peacefully passed and gained her angel wings on February 26, 2025, at the age of 96, surrounded by her loving family.

Carmen was born on May 28, 1928, in Oro Grande, California. At the tender age of two, she moved with her parents, Jose and Maria Torres, to Lompoc, California, the place she cherished and proudly called home for the remainder of her life. Carmen was one of 11 children. Carmen grew up in a close-knit family where hard work and resilience were deeply ingrained.

From a young age she labored alongside her Father and siblings in the agricultural fields, an experience that instilled in her an unshakable work ethic and an enduring devotion to her family. Above all else, Carmen found her greatest joy in being a Mother, Grandmother and Matriarch, a role she embraced with boundless love and unwavering dedication.

Carmen was a devoted Mother to Maggie Wuest, Gilbert Banuelos (Valerie), Elaine Costa (Tim), Art Velasco, Joe Velasco (Mary), Mike Velasco, Ron Velasco (Maralee), and Chuck Velasco. She was the proud Grandmother of 16 Grandchildren, and her love extended to countless great-grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews, all of whom adored their beloved "Grandma Carmen."

She had a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Holidays, especially Christmas, were among her most cherished times, as she lovingly prepared tamales for her family, a tradition that became the heart of gatherings. Her home was always a place of warmth, laughter and togetherness, a reflection of the love she so generously shared. A dedicated supporter of her family, she found immense joy in attending the sporting events of her grandchildren, always their proudest cheerleader.

Carmen also had a spirited sense of adventure. She relished family reunions and camping trips with the Torres family, delighted in watching the Dodgers, and found great joy in the melodies of Mariachi music. She had a keen eye for hidden treasures and could often be found "thrifting" at second-hand stores, always on the hunt for something special.

She is survived by her children: Maggie, Gilbert, Elaine, Joe, Mike, Ron and Chuck as well as her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and sister Dolores Cornejo and Connie Sanchez. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bill Banuelos, her son, Art Velasco, her grandson Bryan Velasco, Matthew Banuelos, Jackson Velasco and her great granddaughter Tori Costa.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Carmen's remarkable life will be held on March 22, 2025 at 10 AM at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary in Lompoc, CA. The celebration of life will follow at The Mission Club located at 4300 Clubhouse Rd. Lompoc.

Carmen's love, strength and kindness left a deep impression on the hearts of all who knew her. Though she may no longer be physically present, her legacy of love, family and resilience will live on in our family for generations to come.