P. K.Senadeera:An appreciation

To us all Richmondites, he was PK. His period at Richmond College taught him many values that our Principals, and teachers inculcated in us. He certainly realised that humility must be an important ingredient for a successful life. A student and teacher of Richmond College with a humble and contrite heart.

I came to know PK more closely when his son, Harsha, married one of my most sincere and close friends Chandrasinghe Vithanawasan’s and his beloved wife Pushpa’s daughter Esha. PK was a silent worker of the Richmond 60 club as I recall his dedication and commitment to co-ordinate with our Dadalla Cemetery keeper to ensure that the tombs belonging to our Past Principals were properly maintained as per fees paid by us when I was the secretary of the Richmond 60 club. It was a voluntary job no claims made as cost of travelling, etc.

A close family friend of ours Prof Michael Roberts on hearing his sudden demise said that he had been very helpful to him when he had visited Galle on Vacation from Australia, even though he did not know him, prior to this occasion in finding some information he required which displayed his interpersonal skills.

His dedication and commitment whilst teaching is spoken by many of his past pupils.He was a virtuous person. He believed in that concept that ” To err is human and forgive is divine”.

PK was a good listener as he believed that confident people listen with care to ensure that they respect the thoughts, feelings and ideas of others, whatever their status or skills.

The confident person always looks out for the opportunity to learn from others and that was PK. Even his association with the extended family was a clear example of human feeling respecting their views and decisions at any time.

His wife Clarice and the children Harsha and Vidura loved him as he was a devoted husband and a loving and caring father. PK maintained a close association with his family , upholding family values.

It was perfectly shown even with the daughters-in- law Esha and Bagya, not forgetting the lovely grandchildren Diyana, Vimandya, and Bhavindya on whom he poured out so much of love and affection. My heartfelt sympathies to his wife Clarice, and the whole family.

It is sad to miss him as a true and sincere friend who displayed great humility and feeling. I as a Christian believe he is in eternity. WE WILL MISS YOU PK.

Nihal De Alwis (for and behalf of all Richmond 60 club friends )