On Thursday, March 17, at the Metropolitan Cemetery in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, Don Gilberto Mendoza, President Emeritus of the World Boxing Association who died a week ago, was taken to his final resting place.

Friends and former boxers accompanied the Mendoza and Alvarado families during this difficult time and paid tribute to a man who gave his best in all aspects of life, but especially to the world of boxing.

Before the funeral, after the Mass, those in attendance said goodbye to Gilberto Mendoza to the words of a poem by Antonio Machado and popularized as a song by Joan Manuel Serrat.

Throughout the week posthumous tributes resounded in memory of Gilberto, who began his journey in Barquisimeto on March 30, 1943. He had a difficult childhood, with few creature comforts, but thanks to his perseverance and dedication he achieved much and left a mark on all those who knew him.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.