Jose Crespin De La Torre

Jose Crespin De La Torre passed away peacefully May 15, 2026. He was born October 25, 1928, in Chanute, Kansas to Refugio and Crescencia (Gonzales) De La Torre. He graduated from Chanute High School in 1947. Crespin married the love of his life, Margaret (Maggie) Alonzo, on January 8, 1949, and they recently celebrated 77 years of wedded life. Shortly after graduating from high school, Crespin went to work for Monarch Cement, serving in various positions, and retired after 43 years of employment. A lifetime member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Crespin was deeply involved with parish life. He was active in the Knights of Columbus, attaining the 4th Degree, and also active in Harvest House. Crespin and his wife, Maggie, were also active in the R.S.V.P., Retired Senior Volunteer Program. Crespin was a very active member of the Chanute Mexican Fiesta Committee for many years, serving as president for two of those years. He is well known for being a coach for youth baseball and basketball, adult softball, both fast pitch and slow pitch. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Crespin enjoyed family gatherings, especially the Alonzo Family Reunions, the Gonzales Family Reunions, and holiday gatherings. He also enjoyed following the activities of his children and grandchildren. He loved following some of his favorite sports teams including the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, the University of Notre Dame, and his two favorites, the Chicago Bears and his beloved Kansas University Jayhawks. He is survived by his children, Michael (Anita) of Chanute, Phillip (Pat) of Lawrence, Kansas, Steven (Vicki) of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Julie Bright (Eddie) of Derby, Kansas. Eleven grandchildren, Jeffrey De La Torre (Angie), Christopher De La Torre (Diane), Brian De La Torre (Lauren), Edward De La Torre, Danny De La Torre (Meagan), Ryan De La Torre, Isaac De La Torre (Paige), Kylie Grossnicklaus (Whitney), Stephanie Witt (Brian), Allison McDowell (Joe), Emily Conner (Derrick), 17 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great- grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved spouse of 77 years, Maggie, and two sisters, Juanita De La Torre and Pauline Florez. The rosary will be recited at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held following the rosary until 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 21 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, followed by interment at St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Patrick’s Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home. Crespin will be remembered for his devotion to his family and to his church. He will also be remembered for his warm smile, and his kindness and love he shared with everyone.

Jose Crespin De La Torre

October 25, 1928 - May 15, 2026