AN APPRECIATION – ROHAN TUDAWE

Source:Island

In one’s journey in life, one comes across many types of people. Some who do not meanmuch to you, many whom you forget after the first encounter, some you remember  once in a while, and others you rather not remember at all.

But every now and then, one is privileged to meet people of exceptional merit, who makes a lasting impression, and most often than not, becomes friend for life. Such a person in my life was Rohan. An encounter which lasted almost 60 years, from the time before he went for studies to the UK and returned in 1974 just in time to attend my wedding.

Our bond was strengthened by the very close friendship my father enjoyed with his own Father, the late Lawrence Tudawe, a genial man in his own right, whose good qualities instilled in on Rohan.

When my house at Flower Road suffered extensive damage due to the 1991 JOC bomb blast, Rohan was amongst the first to arrive at the scene and lost no time in bringing the

Tudawe Brothers workforce with wheelbarrows, shovels, and other equipment to clear the  debris and took control and rebuilt the house in a year to a better shape than before.

He was indeed a real friend. Never hesitant, always available, and ready to help.

“Mr T”, as I fondly called him will be solely missed by his wide circle of friends and colleagues whose lives he touched, and was held in high esteem.

His death has created a vacuum amongst his siblings, his beloved wife Dr. Mala, Gayan, Romali, Faith, and Dinill; and in their hearts he has left a void that can never be filled.

When the Amana Bank Orphancare Trust was launched two years ago, I was looking for people to be appointed to the Board  of Trustees. When I called Mr T, without any hesitation he said “Ruz, how can I say no to you”. He took it a step further and volunteered to be its Treasurer. That was quintessential Rohan Tudawe; ever willing to oblige.

Farewell my loyal friend…. you will be deeply missed.

Ruzly Hussain