Enrique Ramos Rodriguez Sr.

It all started when Mom left us right after Harvey. She had left me with a tremendous responsibility, taking care of Dad. It was kind of scary, because anyone that knew how Mom doted on him, would agree I had gigantic shoes to fill. I tried my best, but we were on our own, Dad and I.

First, we had the experience of remodeling the house after being flooded out. It took months of making decisions together and finding solutions. That is when we really started bonding as friends. Dad knew I was here for him and he was ready to back me up in everything.

Then COVID came along and we had no choice but to be locked up all day together for weeks and months. We became good roomies. Sharing and laughing with him and his funny sense of humor. That’s when I learned about his childhood and things of his youth I had never heard before. In other words, we got to know each other well.

Taking care of my “viejito” was the best thing that could happen to me as a daughter. It helped me realize how much more there was to him as a person, not only a father. I learned things about him and his life that I had never imagined.

In the years after Mom left, his health slowly started to decline. It was one doctor visit after another, exams, treatments, and meds. He became more and more dependent on me. He knew I was there for him again and would never let anything happen to him if I could help it.

As his health deteriorated even more, he slowly became my little boy. Our relationship was one of trust, love, and need. I lost my father, my friend, my roomie, and my child, all in one. Very complicated feelings, but all so true. I hope he realized how much I love him and that he will always be in my heart. Rest in peace, my Daddy-O.

Dear Gompa, Jan 2024

My heart is in pain because I can’t be there to say goodbye to you Gompa, but you know I am quietly shedding tears because you are gone. Your memory will live on in all of us who loved you and we will never forget you, Gompa.

I am lucky to say that I shared special memories with you and that, will always bring a smile to my face.

You were a funny guy that was full of energy……a real fighter in life. I am very lucky tht we could sit and talk about your childhood, life, the things you were interested in, and your view of life full of wisdom and experiences.

It breaks my heart that you are not there, but I know you are not alone, you are peace next to Goma. In life I loved you dearly and in death I love you still. I am going to miss you viejito.

Love you always,

Denise