My deepest condolences to Johann, Peter, and their families on the passing of your beloved father, Uncle Christy. My family and I wish all of you the Lord's comfort in this time of sorrow. Although I have never met you in person, I know how precious all of you were to Uncle by how highly (and regularly) he spoke of you.
Uncle was a welcome pillar of graciousness and civility in our family. An absolute gentleman in all respects. In all the interactions I have had with him over several years, I cannot recall him uttering a word of complaint about anything or anyone. If I asked him how he was, and his answer was "managing", or "so-so", I knew he was either in a lot of pain or feeling quite ill; otherwise, he was always "quite well". In recent years after Chinnamma's passing, we had several very personal conversations about life, family, faith, etc. He was always a source of wisdom and comfort, delighting in our joys and sharing in our sorrows. I could confide in him and know that anything I spoke of would never be shared with anyone.
Of course, we were not always so serious. Our conversations were not without some good doses of humor. If I shared a story that had to be told in a round-about way, I knew he had caught my meaning by the absolutely mischievous chuckle I would hear through the phone. It is probably the thing I will miss most of all.
I am very thankful for the privilege of knowing Uncle Christy for the past 34 years. He was my most beloved family member from that generation. I am especially grateful for the way Chinnamma and he doted on my daughter. We will never forget how kind they were to her, and to our sons as well. Rest in peace, dearest Uncle. You will live on in all of us.
Ilanka (Reggie), Ajita, Jeevan, Thivya, Indiran, and Theepan
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" - Matthew 5:4