Bill was born in Glen Rock, New Jersey to William and Hazel (Lockwood) Torrens. Bill grew up in Glen Rock.  He graduated from Ridgewood High School in Ridgewood, New Jersey in 1945.
After high school he attended Colgate University in Hamilton, New York.  He left Colgate, July of 1946 and joined the Army and served for 2 years. He served in World War II and was the recipient of the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal-Japan. He was discharged and returned to Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey earning his degree in Political Science in 1951.  Bill was a life long learner, continuing his education through California Coast University receiving both his MBA and Ph.D in Management.
He began work for International Paper Company where he worked for 22 years. His work brought him from New Jersey to Turlock, California in 1966.  His passion for management and labor relations led him to continue his career while working for such organizations as E & J Gallo and United Vintners, Inc.  In 1972, he started teaching at CSU, Stanislaus as a part time instructor and later became an associate professor in the Business Administration Department. He was awarded the Distinguished Professor Award in 1986.  He retired from the professional and academic world in 1988.
In addition to his professional career, Bill was active in the community, participating in many committees in Turlock and Stanislaus County including: Stanislaus County’s Personnel Management Council, Stanislaus County Commission on Aging, Stanislaus County Mobile Home Mediation Board, Stanislaus County Transportation Board, and the Ear of the Lion.
Bill married Esther (DeGeeter) in 1950 in Elkton, Maryland. They were happily married for 62 years. Together, they enjoyed travelling, gardening, Dixieland Jazz, and baseball.  He was a long time fan of the San Francisco Giants, a collector of many things, and an avid reader. Bill was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, Lions Club International, and Sons In Retirement. He also received many awards for his lifetime of service to his community and those in need.
Bill is survived by his spouse Esther of Turlock, CA; [his] daughters Mary (Bill) Stires, and Patti Torrens of Modesto, CA; his grandchildren Bill Parker and ElizaBeth Parker Phillips; his great-grandchildren Aurora and Alexander Phillips; and other relatives.
At his request, no services will be held.  A wake to celebrate his life will be held on April 28, 2013 from 3:00-5:00 pm at the Sun and Shadows Condominium Clubhouse, 2030 Sunset, Turlock, California.  In lieu of flowers, a donation in his name can be made to the 12:10 Lions Club 1400 North Tully #99, Turlock, CA 95380 to support their ongoing projects including the homeless shelter and Camp Pacificia.