March 9, 2014

A final tribute to Romeo D'Souza, a dear friend and ex colleague

by Sarah Fernandes (Nairobi)

I learnt with great shock and disbelief of the untimely death of Romeo. Ever since he left Nairobi, I had lost contact with him. However, very recently my dear sister Connie called and updated me on Romeo’s health and also gave me his number, persuading me to call him immediately. I console myself by the thought, that very same day for the first time I was able to call and through Diana had the privilege to speak with him in person. To me he sounded cheerful and well - I visualized him the way I used to know him.

Romeo will be remembered as an extremely warm and caring friend and a dedicated worker, who always gave his best while serving in the Finance Department of a multinational company - Kenya Breweries Ltd/E A Breweries Limited. He was nothing short of an inspiration to KBL and performed his duties with diligence and integrity. He was very focused on his job and was directly answerable to the Group Financial Director - Mr N G Ajania - who held him in high esteem because of his meticulous job and he had developed a very close relationship with Romeo in view of his exceptional character and intelligence. Romeo was soft spoken and always had a smile, greeted everyone enthusiastically and took pleasure in the company of friends, colleagues and family. Romeo’s friendship over many years is a great loss to everyone who knew him but he leaves behind fond and treasured memories.

With renewed prayers, sorrow and deepest sympathies to the entire family members

May the departed Soul rest in eternal peace”.

Sarah Fernandes, Nairobi

______________________________

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Richard, Romeo's eldest son and most favourite child, according to me. Whenever my dad and I were together, a lot of people thought he was my brother. I don't know, whether it's because I looked older or he looked younger.

On behalf of my mother Diana and the rest of the family I would like to thank each one of you, for being here today and spending time with us, to remember and celebrate my dad's life.

Dad, was a loving husband and best friend for the last 47 years, he loved mum dearly and they always did everything together. He would sit for hours in the mall patiently waiting and never complained while mum shopped, went to the salon or got her nails done.

Since dad retired, he gladly took on the honey do list. He had a daily routine, which included getting the breakfast going, house chores and watching daily weekday Mass on TV. He was systematic and over the last few weeks, we now realize what he really did.

My dad was never fond of typing until he retired and then that all changed, his favourite past time became surfing the web. Google became his new friend.

It’s so hard to believe that Dad’s gone, losing him is by far the most difficult thing we have had to go through. As far back as we can remember, we always knew my dad was a great dad, but then I suppose everyone thinks that. Dad made many sacrifices and always made sure we had the best in life. He was always there for us and now suddenly he isn’t anymore and that’s going to take some getting used to. We shared many a good times and have no regrets, as we will cherish the memories we had with him. My dad was a man of few words but his smile would say it all and light up any room. He was a very kind, caring, considerate and thoughtful grandpa, who adored his grandsons.

Up until late January this year, dad was always independent and we never had to help him with anything. He fought a courageous battle with cancer over the last month and took his illness in stride despite knowing it wouldn't be easy. He showed strength and love right up until his last days with us. We are thankful that he did not suffer and he was in no pain up until the end and had a peaceful death.

Thank you, for all your prayers, emails and calls over the last couple of months. It meant a lot to dad and the rest of the family.

We would also like to thank my dad's brother Cirion from Boston for being here today and supporting us during this time.

Rest in peace dear dad, we will miss you and love you very much.

Richard D'Souza

______________________________

Click below to view of leave a condolence message:

http://www.wardfuneralhome.com/book-of-memories/1821903/DSouza-Romeo/view-condolences.php