Henry Moncada, Sr. 1947-2007

Our neighbor Henry died yesterday morning. He was only 59 years old. Here is a link to his obituary/memorial and guestbook. I was the first person to sign the guestbook, and this is what I wrote.

Henry was the best part of living in our apartment. He would greet me in the morning on the way to school and when I came home in the evening. It made this place feel like home, even though my family is thousands of miles away.

I also enjoyed our occasional chats that came far too infrequently due to my busy schedule. But I always had someone to talk to the Marine Corps with when Henry was around.

I know my wife enjoyed hearing his stories of Vietnam. Being around him made her feel a bit more at home also. He never failed to make you feel welcome.

He’s going to be severely missed. I don’t have any desire to stay here without Henry here. I can’t imagine having any other neighbor living below us. I think we might have to buy out our lease once we have the money. This place just isn’t the same with out him.

Or Mama, because she’s the sweetest cat ever. They were quite the pair. But I know Henry’s gone to someplace better and is having a blast. And Mama will still have a good home.

You’ll be missed Henry.