I write this tribute in loving memory of my dearest childhood friend, Tanvi Lal. It is still unfathomable to me, that she is no longer with us. Her smiling face flashes in front of my eyes, her laughter rings in my ears, and the profound bond and friendship that we shared for 20 years, makes my heart bleed grief.

Tanvi and I met at school when we were just ten; we instantly gravitated towards each other. We were inseparable for the next five years, before she moved to Bombay. Our friendship stood the test of time, and we remained connected even as we both moved to the US, me much after Tanvi. Delhi, Bombay, New York and Boston - each city bears the stamp of our mutual bond. We fell out of touch these last few years as life’s challenges consumed me.

Tanvi lived her life with immense courage. She went after whatever she wanted with passion, and never apologised for her decisions or ambition. She was full of love, joy and child-like laughter. She shone brighter than the sun on those she chose to love.

She built a beautiful life with her loving husband, who was her friend and partner. She leaves behind their beautiful baby girl, who I know in my heart, will grow up to embody the love, courage and joy that was her mother.

“Tanvi, my heart is in pieces, but I will repair it, and that is where you will live forever. Your spirit and courage will guide me till my last breath. And I know, that we will meet again. And when we do, thousands of miles of ocean wont lie between us, and the cruel clock of time will finally be silent.”

“Love you forever, my oldest friend in the world.” ❤ ❤  - Simran 

I am devasted by this loss. Tanvi, I think you know how much you meant to me as we would have long discussions about our careers and paths forwards and who we wanted to be as humans on this earth. And we shared our appreciation of the work team we created for LA River and how much we valued each other (me, you, and Maggie). But I want you to know how much I loved you and how much of an inspiration you were to me. You were so brilliant and the way you handled complex situations was an art. I learned so much from you and I was so excited for what more we could accomplish together. And what more you would push and support me to do as a mentor. Your gravitational pull to crazy projects dragged me with you and I am immensely grateful for that. You pushed me HARD but only because you believed in me, sometimes when I didn’t believe in myself.

I am going to miss talking and working with you for 2-4 hours on the phone every day. I am going to miss your quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and sailor’s mouth. I am going to miss your approach to life and your mischievous grin. And your laugh! I am going to miss your laugh, it made everyone laugh along with you. I can still hear the way you would say my name. Sometimes sharply because you were frustrated with me. And I am going to miss your spirit that was a force of nature. You were unstoppable Tanvi and showed me that sometimes if a door isn’t open you can open it yourself.

You were a good friend, Tanvi. And a great leader. I cherish the time we had and will carry pieces of you with me for the rest of my life.

I send my love and condolences to Kaizad and the rest of the family. Especially beautiful Zaeya. Grateful a part of Tanvi is safe and alive in the world.

Our deepest condolences to Kaizad, the baby and the rest of the family. Tanvi was a truly amazing person. She was one of the youngest in her class in graduate school and worked harder than anyone to take advantage of any opportunity that was available. Although admitted to one graduate program, she choose to do the extra work and put in the extra time to add a second environmental science degree. She wanted to do good for her community and was willing to accept any challenge to reach her goals. 

She was the finest example of what a smart, motivated young woman could do. She became a consummate professional, but retained her adventurous and kind soul. She will be greatly missed by her many friends around the world.

Rich, Sandy, Chase & Cortni, and Miya Nourie

I can’t express how devastated we were upon hearing this very tragic news of Tanvi’s passing. I worked with her closely for three years and got to know her and her husband well. We are so blessed to have shared a short time on this planet with such a vibrant and passionate soul. Thankfully, we have a part of her in her beautiful and blessed daughter. 

With much love, Gilberto and Jessika Ruiz

Dear Kaizad, family, and friends,

We are deeply upset by this sudden passing. Tanvi will be greatly missed. Her uniquely effervescent personality and mischievous smile will be carried forward in her daughter. Tanvi always had a beautiful gleam in her eyes which I will never, ever forget. Rest In Peace, dear girl.

We are happy to hear that the baby is well. Take care of your health too. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, always. 

Lots of love, 

Benaisha, Jimmy, Kaus, Kash, and Daena