Obituary of Kuriakose I. Kuruppan

Kuriakose Kuruppan was born on May 11, 1951, in Vengur, Ernakulam, India, to the late Mr. Ittoop Kuruppan and Mrs. Ely Kuruppan. He was one of eight siblings —three brothers and five sisters—growing up in a close-knit family rooted in love and perseverance. He was married to Thankamma Kuruppan, the daughter of the late Evangelist P. M. Mathew, Maikavu. Together, they raised three children: Neena, Aby, and P. M. Mathew, Maikavu. Together, they raised three children: Neena, Aby, and Teena, along with their spouses, Daniel, and Abraham. His three granddaughters— Meela, Ocean, and Nia—were the greatest joys of his life. Kuriakose was a highly educated man of exceptional intelligence and wisdom. He completed his high school education at Kizhakenchery High School in Vadakkencherry and earned his bachelor’s degree in English from N.S.S. College in Ottapalam. He later served in the military for one year but was honorably discharged due to health concerns. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States, discharged due to health concerns. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States, where he continued his studies at faith theological seminary. Eventually, he settled in New York and devoted his professional life to public service, working for the New York City Department of Social Services until his retirement. From a very young age, Kuriakose faced significant health challenges. As a child, he suffered from rheumatic fever, which left him with a weakened heart—a con dition that shaped the course of his life. Despite this, he demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination. He fought tire-lessly to overcome obstacles, becoming resilience and determination. He fought tire-lessly to overcome obstacles, becoming the first in his family to earn a college degree and achieving his dream of coming to America. His will to live and persevere carried him through many hardships and allowed him to live a long and meaningful life. Kuriakose was known for his generosity and compassion. He provided unwavering support to his extended family in Kerala and was a dependable father, uncle, and role model. As a father, he loved deeply and encouraged his children to grow, flourish, and become the people they were meant to be. flourish, and become the people they were meant to be. In the final months of his life, his health declined severely, and he spent five long months in the hospital. Even as his body weakened and hope seemed scarce, his spirit remained strong. He held on to life with remarkable determination, longing to watch his grandchildren grow. Ultimately, God called him home, bringing an end to his long and courageous journey and granting him eternal rest. Kuriakose Kuruppan is survived by his devoted wife, Thankamma Kuruppan; his children, Neena, Aby, and Teena; and his cherished grandchildren, Meela, his children, Neena, Aby, and Teena; and his cherished grandchildren, Meela, Ocean, and Nia. He was deeply loved and admired by his children’s significant others, and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Until his final days, he carried himself with dignity, independence, and an unyield ing thirst for life. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of strength, love, perseverance, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams. Forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace