Obituary of Vijaykumar G. Kolpe

Vijaykumar (aka Vijay, Babudi), was born in a simple home and a loving family in Bombay on January 31, 1938.  Growing up with older siblings Vasant and Vinita in a Saraswat Brahmin family speaking Konkani language and with simple and beautiful Konkani traditions.

His young life was marked as a champion table-tennis and cricket player and also committed to a gymnasium “Vyayamshala” where he helped the teacher and gained respect of his peers. 

His promising career as a pharmaceutical rep with Glaxo and Hoechst Pharma was cut short by a rare illness that resulted in a major stroke and paralysis at the young age of 38.  He persevered to fight and come to a new normal level of independence and raised Vivek and Vaishali, with amazing partnership with wife Jyoti.  

Jyoti has been his pillar of strength through the first illness and the latest illness in 2019; and he in turn, was inseparable with her for their 52 years of married life.

Together they travelled far and wide, being doting grandparents and enjoying everlasting friendships in India and US.  His move to Simi Valley in last five years brought great happiness to friends at Vintage Paseo and the Wood Ranch community.

Deeply loved by: His wife and life partner – Jyoti  Vivek, Manasi, Vir, Malvika Vaishali, Vikran, Kashish, Kiara Siblings:  Vasant, Vinita Relatives:  Vandana (niece), Viju (SIL), Vinay (Nephew) and many many more.

His signature smile,  vigorous left-handshake and love for all, is how everyone will remember him.