A man of wisdom and lovable personality

I was grieved to learn of the unexpected sad death of Mr. Theophilus Kirupakaran Augustine on December 16, 2018 in Adelaide, Australia. He was born on July 23, 1938 at Pandiyanthalvu, Jaffna to orthodox Catholic parents, father Augustine and mother Mariama with three brothers and three sisters who pre-deceased him.

During the time his father was a teacher at St Patrick’s College Jaffna, Theophilus Kirupakaran joined St Patrick’s College and excelled in studies and co-curricular activities. Completing his sec- ondary education he moved to Colombo for employment and joined the Govt. Service in the Auditor General’s Department. He passed the competitive exam and was selected as an Accountant and was posted to the Govt. Railway Department.

He married Indra Saverimuttu on June 1, 1966 and they were blessed with one son Emil Rohan. He was a devoted husband, an affectionate father and loving grandfather, always concerned about the wellbeing and welfare of his family. Having served with honesty and sincerity he was rewarded with the promotion as Deputy Chief Accountant in the Railways Department. Having proved his professional excellence in serving as Chief Accountant he was appointed as Director, Internal Audit in the Treasury. While working in the Treasury, he represented the Government as a Director in the Trans Asia Hotel. He also never lost touch with Tamil culture.

After retirement, he migrated to Adelaide with his wife Indra to join their beloved son Rohan. They lived close to St Francis of Assisi Church and Augustine was much involved in church activities and social work.

A gentleman par excellence, lovable personality with simplicity, a faithful friend at times of need, many were privileged to have moved with him closely and enjoyed his love and wisdom. May he rest in peace.