Thank you for being the heart and soul of our family
It has been two long years since my dearest wife Hemamali departed this world, leaving an irreplaceable void in our lives. I find solace in the cherished memories we created together and wish to express my heartfelt gratitude for the remarkable person she was.
Hemamali, affectionately known as Mali to those close to her, was an extraordinary individual in every sense. Her love, kindness, and compassion touched the lives of all who crossed her path. I was truly fortunate to share my life with her and while her physical presence may be gone, her spirit and the impact she made on all of us will endure forever. Hemamali “Mali” Weerasekare was born on June 8, 1957, to W. M.Abeykoon and Tikiri Manike Navaratne in Kandy. Mali grew up on her family's tea estate in Galaha alongside her elder brother, Asoka Weerasekare. Mali attended boarding school at Hillwood College and after completing school, she earned her Diploma in Piano from the Royal College of Music, UK.
We married in 1980 and a year later, she gave birth to our daughter, Asha.
Mali embarked on her teaching career at Hillwood College in 1987, commencing a 31-year journey in education. She started as a nursery schoolteacher and went on to teach piano. After Hillwood, Mali taught piano at Trinity College until our relocation to USA in 1998. There, she continued her teaching career as a Montessori school teacher. In 2018, she retired, dedicating her time to caring for her baby grandson, Ayan.
Mali's hobbies included playing the piano, listening to music, exploring new cuisines, travelling, and indulging in cooking and travel shows. She was a person of immense gentleness and peace, welcoming all with open arms, and her kindness left a lasting mark on everyone she met. Mali possessed a generous heart, offering aid to those in need, and had a profound love for animals.
Her unwavering love and support for our family was our bedrock. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and doting grandmother. Her ability to make every family gathering special and filled with warmth is a treasure we shall forever cherish.
As I reflect on our shared journey, I am reminded of Mali's unwavering support and love during my recovery from heart bypass surgery. From the moment of my diagnosis through the anxious days leading to surgery and the occasionally painful and frustrating days of recovery, she stood by my side. Her reassuring presence was a beacon of hope during one of the darkest chapters of my life. She managed our home, cared for me, and ensured I followed medical instructions with care and affection. Her patience, empathy, and ceaseless efforts played a pivotal role in my healing journey.
Mali's resilience during trying times, her wisdom in offering guidance, and her patience in understanding me made her the ideal partner. Mali and I travelled to many countries and had hoped to continue our adventures. When she was diagnosed with cancer in 2020, our world was shaken to its core! The shock, fear, and uncertainty we all felt were overwhelming. We faced a journey filled with pain and heartache, but we also discovered the remarkable strength that bound us together as a family.
Mali’s courage and determination served as a guiding light for all of us during her battle with cancer. As time went on, and we witnessed the toll cancer took on her body, we cherished the moments we had left. Our family gatherings, once filled with laughter and joy, now held a bittersweet note, as we were all acutely aware of the fragility of life. Mali passed away on November 23, 2021, at the age of 64, with me and our daughter by her side. The grief we felt was profound and it still lingers today. But even in her absence, her love continues to bind us together. Her memory serves as a reminder of the importance of love, compassion, and cherishing each moment we have with those we hold dear.
Mali, thank you for being the heart and soul of our family. The impact you made on my life, the lives of our family, and our friends is immeasurable. You have left a lasting mark on all our lives, and we are forever grateful for the time we had with you. Asha, Ayan, our son inlaw, Sandeep, and I miss you very much!
May you attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana.
With all my love and gratitude,
Tony Dodanwela