It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Rene Moreno on September 13, 2024, at the age of 63. Rene was a powerful force with vibrant energy and charisma who excelled in life with versatility, skill and passion that knew no bounds. He is remembered as a deeply cherished brother, uncle, colleague, and friend. He fostered meaningful relationships that spanned across the continents and always made a lasting impact. Though he only spent 63 years on earth, he managed to live a life rich in adventure, learning, diversity, and love that most people could not achieve in 100 years.

 

Born Rene Alberto Moreno in Mexico on September 23, 1960, Rene was the eldest child of his family. From an early age, he was dedicated to his family, helping his single mother, and offering a hand to care for his younger brother and sister. To his siblings, he was not only a brother, but also a guiding presence who fulfilled the role of father figure by providing love, patience, support, wisdom, and sacrifice. While he always valued his independence, there was nothing he would not do for his family. 

 

He loyally dedicated over 40 years to the airline industry. Through perseverance, expertise, and humility, he steadily rose through the ranks and ultimately found his place as the corporate head of sales with Cathay Pacific, where he would eventually retire in January of 2024. His career was a source of great pride and fulfillment.  It was more than just a job; it was an integral part of who he was. He was a trusted and respected member of his team who ensured those who worked with and for him were nothing less than valued and was held in high regard by those who crossed paths with him professionally and personally. 

 

Outside of work, Rene had a profound love for books, music and theater. He could often be found enjoying live performances, relishing in a good book, or curating playlists that reflected his eclectic and wide-ranging music tastes, which he took great joy in sharing with the people he loved. He had an intense appreciation for learning about, immersing himself in, and embracing different cultures and loved sharing good food, and even better wine with family and friends. While his work afforded him the opportunity to see the world, he equally enjoyed travelling for recreation and eagerly sought out new experiences and challenges, while embracing every opportunity to make lasting memories. He was well-known for his love of learning, empathy toward others, ability to listen with care, witty humor,  persistence and perseverance, and unwavering conviction for his values and beliefs.

 

Rene was a staunch advocate for human rights and believed in the power of progressive action to create a more just and inclusive world. His passion for social justice was reflected in the way he lived his life, as he always championed equality, understanding, and respect for all individuals. His kindness, integrity, and commitment to social causes touched the lives of many, and he leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, advocacy, and generosity. He approached life with an open heart and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people

 

Rene is survived by his brother; David (Tonya), sister; Jessicca (Johnny), nieces and nephews; Vincent, Tanner, Alyxandrea, Chance (Shelby), Karly, Sean, and Conor; great nieces and nephews Delilah, Oliver, Indigo, Otis, Arlo, and River; and countless friends. 

 

Rene's spirit for adventure, desire to be a lifelong learner, love for the arts, appreciation for culture, and dedication to leaving the world better than he found it will forever inspire us. May he now rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those of us who were fortunate enough to know him, learn from him, and love him. There are truly no words to adequately express the profound void his absence leaves in the lives of those he touched.