A Tribute to Renato

“It’s impossible. Impossible to imagine we are in this room. Impossible to say everything I want to say, to give Renato the credit and tribute he deserves. But I will try. And think he’ll think it was enough.

What’s coming through strongest I believe is a message from Renato. Thank you!

To the healthcare providers and healers who worked so hard to treat Renato’s body in doctor’s offices, Kennestone and the Cancer Center - I hope his attitude and spirit reminds you of the value of your work and is motivating for your future.

To his Terry MBA friends - Thank you for being a part of something he was so proud of. There may have been some grumbling occasionally but for the vast majority, Renato spent 2 years working 5 days a week, with class for 3 hours twice a week - oh, and while going through chemo, during the last two quarters.Watching him walk on December 2017 was a miracle for us all.

To his WellStar coworkers - Thank you for giving him purpose and fulfillment for the last four years. You recognized his brilliance, supported him, and made him very happy. Thank you for never treating him differently as he got more sick. If anything, Renato became better at his job, after he saw the perspective of the patient, and I know his legacy will ripple across the entire company.

To his Mom and Dad - Thank you for shaping and raising such a beautiful man who is loved by so many.

Dany, Sergio, Diego - Thank you for being his brothers. You all helped each other grow up and you had so much fun. He will live strongest in each of you. Thank you for always treating me like a sister.

To the rest of his family - to my family - I was told Renato become more pleasant at family events after he met me. For that, you’re welcome. I always enjoyed being by his side for a birthday or any occasion we were with his cousins, uncles, and aunts. He loved his cousins. I’ve never been a part of such a large, tight family and I love you how you love each other. Let Renato bring you even closer together, much more often. I know Renato loved his nieces and nephews too. And I know Uncle Renato will be an inspiration to them all.

To his family in Peru who aren’t in this room today, know you are missed. Renato is as close to you there as he is to us here, because he is infinite. Thank you for such special memories during our trip last October. It was life changing and so, so beautiful.

To Renato’s friends - I was never his friend. I started falling in love with him the night I met him, seven and a half years ago. But I know Renato was the best friend. He was always down and always brought energy. He remembered things. He made you laugh. He made you feel safe. Concerts, festivals, parties, jam sessions, and dinners were always better when he was there. Time with Renato was time well spent. I know we all wish we’d had so many more years of it. Cherish those memories.

I always hoped to see many of you in this room for our wedding, an opportunity to prove our commitment and dedication to each other. While I’m devastated that I didn’t happen, I stand before you without a doubt that our love is honored and celebrated by everyone in this room.

Renato. Thank you.

For making us all feel so connected.

For giving me so much, and thank you for letting me love you.”

Delivered at Renato’s funeral

Tuesday, April 16th

Christ the King Cathedral, Atlanta