MATHUR, Sukhdev P. (“Sukhu”)
Passed away peacefully on Monday, May 6, 2019. [Eulogy]
“Mourn not too long that he is gone, rejoice forever that he was.”
Born in Ajmer, India on December 28, 1934, Sukhu is survived by his beloved second wife, Kusum Mathur (née Tomer), his mother-in-law Vidya Vati Singh and his brother Durga P. Mathur. Sukhu was predeceased by his beloved first wife Veena Mathur (née Sharma), and his parents, Chhail B. Mathur and Bhagwati Devi Mathur.
Cherished father of Bela Dunleavy (Michael), Sanjiv Mathur (Cathy Orlando) and Neil Mathur (Lisa Richard). Loving grandfather to Lucas, Nikhita, Salina, Anita, Sophia, Nadia, and Natasha, he will be greatly missed by them and by his nephews, grandnephews, and grandnieces. Sukhu was a man of great kindness, compassion, and charity, who enriched the lives of his many family, friends, and acquaintances.
Sukhu was a highly-regarded scientist and scholar – as well as publishing hundreds of papers on biochemistry and microbiology during his career, Sukhu was at the forefront of theories and research on climate change (including early involvement with the IPCC).
An avid traveler for both work and pleasure, Sukhu visited more than 82 countries and 45 US states during his lifetime, fuelled in part by his passionate love of history (which he never hesitated to share over dinner, along with his love for puns and his easy laughter).
The family would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice for their care and compassion. Relatives and friends will be received at Pinecrest Cemetery, 2500 Baseline Road, Nepean, on Thursday, May 9, 2019, from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. The Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. with cremation to follow. A reception will follow at his daughter’s home (directions to be provided at service). In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice and The Ottawa Mission would be welcomed.
Published in The Ottawa Citizen on May 7, 2019