WILLEMSTAD – Herbert Anthony Mensche, former director of Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK) and former chairman of fuel distributor Curoil, passed away last weekend after a short illness. He was widely regarded in Curaçao and abroad as a respected expert in oil refining and the international petroleum sector. 

Mensche led RdK from September 2003 to January 2011, returning briefly as interim director in 2012. From September 2014 to February 2019, he served as chairman of Curoil’s supervisory board. His career began at Shell Curaçao and later at the Isla refinery under PdVSA’s management, where he held a variety of technical and leadership positions. 

Colleagues and friends remember him as a friendly, social, and diplomatic man with a broad network and exceptional professional knowledge. 

Community Engagement and Personal Life 
Beyond his professional career, Mensche was active in community life. In 1988, he was a member of the Carnival Committee, involved with the Willemstad Jaycees, and gave training sessions and lectures. 

Raised in the Domi neighborhood, he grew up alongside well-known local figures such as Randy Wiels and Stanley Betrian. Politically, he served as a board member of the Social Independiente (SI) party and was a candidate in parliamentary elections. 

His family describes him as a “sociable and caring man, sharp-minded and fair in his decisions,” someone who quietly helped many and always listened patiently to others’ problems. 

“Papa never let himself be discouraged and always advised us never to reveal our intentions,” his children wrote. He was equally at ease at a table with dignitaries as he was at his favorite café, where a patio is even named after him. 

His youngest granddaughter, Nandi, was “the apple of his eye.” “Papa leaves an enormous emptiness in our hearts and will be deeply missed,” the family said, thanking everyone for their support and condolences during his brief hospitalization and after his passing. 

Mensche is survived by his wife, Dejanira “Jenny” Salasso; his children, Herby, Deya, and Rahid Mensche; and his granddaughter, Nandi.