Jorge Menocal

1931 - 2025

In Loving Memory of Jorge "Polo" Menocal.

Our beloved father, Jorge Menocal-affectionately known as Polo-recently passed away at Baptist Main Hospital following a stroke. In his final moments, he was surrounded by his daughter, Maria Matilde Menocal Shivers; his son, Dr. Julio Jose Menocal; and his granddaughter, Natalia Menocal, daughter of Julio.

Polo was the youngest of six children, born into a distinguished family of lawyers and politicians in Havana, Cuba. His early years were filled with the excitement and adventure of discovering the beauty of his homeland. He explored the island with enthusiasm, accompanied by his cousin and best friend, Kiko Villalon, and their close companion, Jose Ramon Hernandez.

Departing from the family tradition of law, Polo chose a different path and became an Agronomics Engineer, having studied at Universidad de La Habana. He went on to work as a rice farmer in the small town of El Jibaro, near Sancti Spiritus.

Polo married our mother, Piki (Maria Matilde Sorzano y Sanchez), and together they started their family on the farm, often spending time in Havana at his parents' home. Their life was soon disrupted, however, by the turmoil of the Marxist Revolution. The betrayal by Fidel Castro led to our family's forced exodus from Cuba, beginning a journey of over sixty years in exile in the United States, with extended stays in Colombia and Mexico.

Polo's main love was our mother, Piki. He cherished, adored, and supported her throughout their sixty-six years of marriage, demonstrating unwavering devotion. He was also deeply dedicated to his children: my sister, Maria Matilde Menocal Shivers; my brother, Dr. Julio Jose Menocal; and myself, Jorge Menocal. As a father, husband, visionary, and gentleman, his leadership served as an example to all who knew him.

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the devotion and dedication of my niece, Natalia, who ensured Polo's needs were met with responsibility and care. She was a fierce advocate for his well-being, ensuring he never lacked for anything. Beyond material needs, Natalia and Polo shared a bond of love, playful teasing, and mutual affection. They enjoyed many meals together and spent countless hours listening to Cuban music-Natalia learned about Beny More, while Polo was introduced to Bad Bunny's latest album, "DTMF."

In closing, we kindly ask that you do not send flowers. Instead, we encourage you to perform an act that Polo himself would be proud of. The template for this is the prayer of Saint Francis, which can be summarized as: "Truly, it is in giving that we receive." This spirit of generosity is what made Polo so special and enduring.

Genealogy of Jorge "Polo" Menocal.

Wife: Maria Matilde (Piki) Sorzano de Menocal.

Parents: Juan Manuel (Pimpo) Menocal y Barreras and Feliciana (Chana) Villalon.

Siblings: Juan Manuel, Enrique, Fifa (Josefina), Fichu (Feliciana), Alberto.

Children: Jorge (married to Ana Maria Sanchez), Julio (married to Michelle Restani), Maria Matilde.

Grandchildren: Natalia, Andres, Alexandra, Anna Cristina, Jorge Fernando.

Great Grandchildren: Lucia, Hugo, Aleksandra, and Sofia.

In-Laws: Jose Sorzano (married to Shannon), Gloria Monge (married to Washington), Georgina (married to Marty Pitkin).

Written by Jorge Menocal, Jr.