With him around there was never a dull moment

The very thought of not having Neilan around anymore is painful and heartbreaking. We all thought he was recovering after his surgery and were looking forward to the day when he would bounce back with the energy he was so well known to possess. Each time I telephoned him he spoke to me not as a patient but with the same exuberance that he was known for, assuring me that ‘ everything was fine’! Never did he at any time show anxiety or any doubt with regard to his progress. This makes it even more difficult for us to cope with the tragedy that hit us.

Neilan, was the youngest of three boys and a girl born to Elmo and Ursula William on the day when Neil Armstrong made his historic landing on the moon which prompted his father to coin the name ‘Neilan’. Although born to a devout Buddhist family, all three boys Jeevan, Rajan and Neilan schooled just like their father, at S. Thomas’ College and as expected were staunch supporters of their alma mater and judiciously lived in accordance with the motto Esto Perpetua which we Thomians respect and believe in. For S. Thomas’ there was nothing that Neilan wouldn’t do and the draping of the college flag on his casket was very appropriate.

The mischievous one in the family, Jeevan, Rajan and Vanessa the sister could not come to terms with Neilan’s impossible stunts. With time, his innocent pranks, diminished and he turned out to be a very responsible young adult. While at S. Thomas’ Prep School he was picked to model for a well known household brand of margarine and played a part in the filmlet which was screened in all the leading cinemas. His Sri Lankan cum German parentage gave Neilan a toughness which we all admired! He played rugger for S.T.C. and was well known for his stylish performances.

At a young age he mastered the art of running a company and excelled in expanding its business. As a director of the company he knew exactly how to win customers through his down to earth after sales service. His infectious smile and genuine concern to give his customers nothing short of the best in service was the key to his success.

Neilan was a lover of nature. Camping, fishing and wildlife were his favourite pastimes.

Knowing Neilan was a privilege and with him around there was never a dull moment… he was like a breath of fresh air, always smiling and agreeing with everything that was right. He lived a life that was in conformity with every religion. He was blessed with a loving and understanding wife, a mother who was loving and caring. He had it all, including parents, in-laws and relatives who loved him. I can imagine how it must be for Fowzie and the children to adjust themselves to a life without Neilan. Thankfully there are those who loved Neilan who will always be there for Fowzie and the children at all times.

To Ursula, his mother, Fowzie his devoted wife, his son Avanka and his daughter Raya, the shock of losing Neilan at the age of 49 is something they never expected. His life was exemplary and every virtue he was blessed with, he put to good use. All his friends and relatives will no doubt miss him. The void he has created needless to say can never be filled.

Neilan, you will stay in our hearts forever.

Sri Sangabo Corea