George Douglas Torpey, 80, of Independence, Missouri, died on Saturday, August 1, 2020. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 10113 East Lexington Avenue, Independence, Missouri 64053 with Reverend James Carlyle presiding.
George was born on October 29, 1939 in New Canaan, Connecticut to Frank and Elizabeth Torpey. George was a lifelong landscaper and gardener. Some of his clients included Paul Newman, the Weatherly family, and the Rebate Foundation in Westport, Connecticut. He was notorious for keeping local celebrities from stealing the Foundation’s chickens. After moving to Independence in 1996, George enjoyed working for the family business, Torpey Brothers Lawn and Landscape. No matter where he was working, George often worked harder than employees half his age and took great pride in his work. He never knew a stranger, enjoyed conversing with everyone he met, and was a dedicated fan of Frank Sinatra and the Kennedy family. George appreciated his Irish heritage and enjoyed spending time with his extended family. He was very generous and charitable and spent many years collecting donations in the community for the annual Jerry Lewis Foundation for Muscular Dystrophy.
George is survived by his wife of almost 56 years, Bernadette Torpey of Independence and two sons, Edward (Patty) Torpey and Noel (Julie) Torpey of Independence, five grandchildren, Grace, Talia, Hayden, Dawson, and P.J, and his loving family members in Ireland, who were always close to his heart. George loved his grandchildren with his whole heart; they were his pride and joy and the center of his world.
George was preceded in death by his son, Paul, and brothers, Joe, Frank, Mike, and Bobby Torpey.
George will be very sorely missed. Memorials may be directed to the family.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem, Independence MO 816-796-8600