Mercedes de Guezala

We met Mercedes de Guezala Martel during the time she worked as the executive secretary of the CEPSA Fleet Inspection in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, when it was led by Captain Francisco Alonso Marrero, fondly remembered, who was succeeded by Chief Engineer Domingo Martín Ramos. Close to Mercedes was Juan Pisaca Fariña, another extraordinary figure, an engaging and endearing conversationalist. This noon, Mercedes has embarked on the eternal journey.

Mercedes represents a whole generation of women who know much about effort, work, dedication, and sacrifice during the difficult years of the post-war period. Daughter of the prominent Tenerife painter Pedro de Guezala (1896-1960), considered one of the best representatives of Canarian academic and traditional painting, Mercedes studied at the Dominican school and at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife School of Commerce.

Then came the opportunity to work at CEPSA, and her entire professional life unfolded between the refinery and the fleet inspection. These were intense years, measured between work and family, and after a long hiatus, we reconnected a few years ago and had pleasant conversations several times about that era that meant so much for our land.

Mercedes embodied kindness and consistent respect. Educated, very elegant, and always cordial in her dealings, she enjoyed her retirement surrounded by the affection of her daughter Mercedes, the result of her marriage to Domingo Mora, and her good friendships, forged over time and who always showed her their affection and loyalty. So much so that they answered her call just a few hours ago to say goodbye in light of her imminent departure. Love is repaid with love.

May she rest in peace.

Photo: García Expósito Family