When I first heard the news from my brother, I did not have the courage to call anyone in the family and convey my condolence. I didn’t know what to call and tell them. Instead, I travelled back in metro memories (lane) : Known you for 30 years, but first 1-2 years I remember knowing/addressing you as “Air Lanka Uncle” living in 8-3-4. Even though you lived a floor up, we rarely see you, but I do remember seeing you climbing down stairs in the middle of night with (big) engineer briefcase (filled with technical documents) going to Katunayake to release aircrafts back to service (quality check) and flying to destinations to bringing in new aircrafts to Sri Lankan Airlines/Air Lanka. Don’t know, whether these impressed me to choose your field of interest. When I look back, I see and realise that you planted the career seed in me about 30 years ago; a time where I didn’t even see my future. I also remember & wont forget, as a Mid-Schooler with little interest and a rain-drop knowledge in Aviation.; you still found time talking to me (us) after those busy days at work ,standing in those metro staircases. You also guided me in picking my higher education in aviation and also helped me in relating “what I learned” to the work environment. Then, at the start of my career – you trained me for interviews and I firmly believe you played a key role in what I am today. In the past, I thanked you several times, but didn’t tell you how much you meant to me. You are a god gifted mentor to me. Sadly, I never got a chance to sit with you and express my gratitude verbally . In my life, these beautiful memories will be remembered & cherished.