Nirmala and I are shocked and saddened at the untimely death of our beloved brother and brother-in-law, John Alfred Thuraisamy (known to the family as Balaratnam). I am privileged to have had close bonds with him and as a brother-in-law, we had an excellent relationship which is very unique. Balaratnam joined my Travel Group in Oman, as Chief Accountant of Oman Travel Bureau, General Sales Agents for Bangladesh Biman and Sabena Airlines. He was responsible for introducing profit-oriented strategies and controls which brought the company a welcome increase in profits year after year. The founder of the Travel Group had so much confidence in him that he made Balaratnam a signatory to the company bank accounts. He had long innings with the Travel Group and after settling down in Canada for a few years, was recalled by the founder to rejoin the company as their Group Internal Auditor – which goes to prove the very high level of faith and confidence he endeared in others. He was a highly devoted and hardworking individual. Balaratnam – having been entrusted with all responsibilities - worked nearly 12 hours a day, as if the Travel Group was his own company. Balaratnam was always well-dressed, meticulous and extremely systematic. He was indeed a good soul and very religious, a man who lived a God-fearing life adhering to God's commandments. I am more than certain the good Lord has accepted him into his heavenly abode. His sudden death has left a huge void amongst his family, his relatives and friends. While collectively mourning his death, Nirmala and I will treasure the joy he brought to our life. Deepest sympathies go out to his wife Ranees, daughter Shanthini, and sons Niendran, Sashi, Ruchi, their spouses, and their grandchildren on this irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace and may the Almighty grant the bereaved family solace and consolation during this difficult period.