Chris EwenÂ
It is with profound sadness and incredible shock that I report the recent passing of a very good friend.  Chris Ewen was co-owner, with Alex Martinez, of Cafe la Boheme in Merida, Yucatan (I have mentioned Chris, Alex and the cafe many, many times in this blog). When Joel and I first arrived in Merida, almost two years ago, Chris and Alex welcomed us both to Mexico and to the cafe.  Since then the cafe has been our habitual morning hangout—a place to visit with good friends, smoke our Cuban cigars, enjoy good coffee and often-as-not a good breakfast.  Chris’ acidic wit and humor belied a difficult life, and kept us laughing most mornings.  Cafe la Boheme was not just a cafe, it was an institution on the beautiful Paseo de Montejo.  Chris was a movie buff like me, and we often played that game:  What movie or what actor.  With the departure of Alex, and now Chris, the future of Cafe la Boheme is up in the air.  Whatever the outcome, Cafe la Boheme (and Chris and Alex) will remain a legacy in my heart.  Joel and I are finishing up our one month excursion in Chiapas, and truly regret not being in Merida (with our friends) during this sad occasion. Joel and I will be leaving Mexico shortly for travel destinations further south, but Chris, Alex and the cafe will travel with us ALWAYS.  May you rest in peace mi amigo, and thank you for enriching our lives during our brief stay in Merida.  You leave behind many grieving friends.  Your time on earth was much too short.  You will be missed.
Cafe la Boheme – Â Paseo de Montejo, Merida, Yucatan
Expat Journal: Postcards from the Edge 
Steve ,
We are flying down today. Just heard about Chris. Let’s get together when you get into town
I would like that Romayne. Thanks.
I’m so sorry to hear that…I remember you mentioning him.
Thanks Robert.
So sorry to hear that Steve…will say prayers for his transition. Lots of Love…
Thank you LL. You guys would have liked him … he liked to laugh.
what a beautiful tribute…such sad news…enjoy your travels….
Joanne Daniels Falandysz, AgentMexico International Real Estatewww.mexintl.comhttp://www.mexintl.com/agents/details/37Mex Cell 999-956-1944US Vonage 360-483-6922
Date: Thu, 7 Nov 2013 18:44:29 +0000 To: joanna.daniels@hotmail.com
Thank you Jo. Long time no hear from. Chris could be a pain-in-the ass, but he made me laugh … and I liked him. It’s times like these that make me wish that I was religious. I would like to think he’s in a better place, and happier. But …
Sorry to hear the sad news Steve. Take care.
Thank you Doris … came as a big shock … but then it often does.     Stephen F. Dennstedt Indochine Photography Expat Journal http://www.IndochinePhotography.com http://www.Facebook.com/Stephen.Dennstedt  Â
My deepest sympathies go out to you and Joel, Steve. Losing friends is sometimes much more profound than even losing a relative. We choose our friends and feel absolutely bereft when they are gone.
You will feel better as time goes on. Enjoy your travels, spread happiness
wherever you can. It will honor your friend, Chris.
Many good wishes to you, Steve. Stay well, Amigo; laugh often and have fun!!
Sincerely, Judy
Thanks Judy. It seems like I’ve been through this a million times already, and it never gets any easier. But then there is no life without death. Stephen F. Dennstedt Indochine Photography Expat Journal http://www.IndochinePhotography.com http://www.Facebook.com/Stephen.Dennstedt
We are absolutely shocked hearing about Chris. We enjoyed his company whenever we were at the Cafe and made a point of visiting him for advice or just a laugh.
Thank you Fran. It is a real tragedy. My brother and I have known Chris for almost two years now, and liked him a lot. I hope he’s in a better place—I’m not sure Chris really appreciated (or understood) how many people liked him. Thank you for your comments – Steve
So sorry Steve. How wonderful you had the opportunity of knowing him. How very special and what a wonderful addition to your life. Be safe. Miss you.
Thank you Charlee … you’re very sweet. I’ve lost so many people over the years you would think I would be used to it by now. But I’m not … especially when it comes so sudden and unexpected. He was a troubled soul in many ways, but Joel and I really liked him. Give my best to Adrian, I think of you two often. We’ll definitely hookup whenever I get back for a visit. I could use a good laugh … and my ‘Pinball’ always provided me with some good laughs. Love ya kid.
“This life, this life..is not my own. I’m merely passing through.” They passed with you in their paths. What great souls to share their essences with.