The last 9 years was the happiest and most fulfilling time in my life. This was because I was blessed to spend it with my dearest Tak who has left a vacuum that can never be filled.

Tak was always perfectly charming, with a keen intellect and had a profound dedication to his profession. He had a great love for friends and family and whether as a doctor, friend, or relation, enhanced so many lives leaving this world a better place for his time with us. He had a phenomenal career, his hallmark was his softspoken humility that I admired most. Tak always insisted his achievements were God’s good grace and never credit for what he did. He had a profound belief he was merely a “tool” used by the Almighty to do good; he had a clear vision and doors opened for him everywhere.

There is one thing though he never denied; he was handsome. Whenever people commented on how very handsome his grandsons Obie and Remi are, Tak would smile and say, “Like Grandpa like Grandsons.”

We spent so many happy times together. We enjoyed travelling. Tak’s favourite place was the Maldives and he always looked re-charged and gorgeous after just 2-days there. He so enjoyed the ambience, chilled, and napped with the calming seas breeze in preparation for pre-dinner drinks. Whilst Covid prevented us from travelling of late, Tak’s evening ritual of Dry Martinis remained undiminished. He declared with good authority the anti-viral properties of a well-made Martini and was very particular as to its preparation. The glass must be chilled, the Gin Tanqueray 10, the vermouth Noily Prat and of course, “shaken not stirred.” All our friends knew Tak loved a good Gin and our home is full of a variety of Gins sent to us by friends and well-wishers during festivals and occasions. I have kept his martini glass in its appointed place in our fridge to remind me of his love of what he considered the finest of cocktails.

Tak was playful with an enthusiastic sense of humour. He teased me claiming he had many girlfriends from a variety of countries and given his charm, I don’t doubt it. I have vivid memories of his mischievous gestures, his posing for pictures and his unique jokes. Fun and joy are fragrances surrounding dear Tak. He was always first to put on a Christmas hat and use props to enhance the festivities. He cherished his family and loved Christmas time with them.

Nothing kept him down and he was especially pleased when his doctor prescribed Viagra to improve his toe circulation. Tak was an incredible fighter and he did so with a stoic demeanour without a single complaint.

Fate smiled on me when Tak came into my life. He was so caring, loving, and supportive. He had so much love and affection to share. Tak was an untiring romantic, a thoughtful friend, a profound life coach always guiding me to be better.

No one can fill his shoes for me, and mere words cannot express how much I will miss him. Tak is always in my thoughts and forever in my heart. God has taken his finest and may Tak be at peace in his embrace.

Tak was one of life’s true gentlemen   He had an infectious laugh and a  wonderful sense of humour    He will be sorely missed and my thoughts go to his family and friends   

Diana Weiss