Obituary for Bertram Nanayakkara
January 3, 1939 - May 24, 2024
From MCCAULEY-SULLIVAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORIUM. IL640440
After moving to England, Bertram married his loving wife, Sunil, and together they built a beautiful life, welcoming two children, Sonali and Himesh. His passion for pediatrics was evident in his unwavering commitment to his young patients and their families, always going above and beyond to ensure their health and happiness. His kind and gentle nature left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Following the lead of his wife's sister and her husband, Mali and Asokan, Bertram and his family moved to the United States, where he continued his medical practice and extended his dedication to helping children and families in his new community. Of note, the Asokans, who had welcomed him back in 1982, were also of immense support during the challenges of the final months.
Bertram is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Sunil, who lived and worked by his side. In retirement years, he experienced the true meaning of “in sickness and in health” as she cared for him until his last breath. He is also survived by his daughter, Sonali, who has dedicated her life to the art of healing, following in her father's compassionate footsteps. He was preceded in death by their cherished son, Himesh, who passed 24 years ago.
As one of nine siblings, Bertram is survived by his youngest sibling, Gamini, and is fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives spread across 4 continents. His family and friends will always remember him for his warmth, wisdom, and the profound love he showed for his family.
A celebration of Bertram's life and legacy will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity that is closest to your heart.
Dr. Bertram Nanayakkara will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy of compassion and dedication to helping others will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Private services will be held at McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home.
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I remember Berty well in the faculty. He had a wonderful sense of humour. Wherever he went what ever he did he found a story and something to laugh about. I recall he travelled about and came to the faculty riding his BSA Bantam which had a recognisable beat. In between classes and our busy schedule he was often seen chatting in the Mens Common Room. The last I saw him was at the London Reunion of the batch in 1992.
ReplyDeleteI pass on my condolences to his family.
May he reach the ultimate Bliss of Nirvana
Nihal
ReplyDeleteI remember Bertie as a quiet, well mannered rather chuby batchmate.
I too attended the batch reunion in Windsor UK in 1992 and met so many batchmates including Bertie. I was doing a locum in Bedford, Nithya and Neela gave me a lift up and down.
I have a photo where I was sitting at a table where you and Bernadette were sitting on either sides of myself. I think I sent this photo to you.
I met him again at our batch reunion at the Jetwing Blue Hotel, Negombo in 2017. That was the last I saw him.
What is left for us are these happy memories.
Chira