It is with deep sorrow that I speak these words. The unexpected and untimely passing of Selva has left an empty space amongst our close friends. We are all blessed for having known Selva. I am proud to call you a friend - you were one of the best friends I ever had. Death is inevitable, but why did the God take you so early. I will miss you very much. I have had the good fortune of being a friend of yours for 52 years including the five years we both were in Kuwait. I came to study at Teesside in 1968 and you came in 1970. We both settled in Teesside after graduating along with another friend, Ravi, who also came to Teesside in 1970. Selva, you had a happy life surrounded by your loving wife, Rani, daughter, Jennifer, son, David, their spouses and adoring granddaughters, Ava and Mia. You doted on your granddaughters and moved to London to be with them. It is a pity that after you moved to London we saw each other less often, but I was happy to see you how content you were together with your family. You were well-mannered and always had great respect for everyone in your family and others. You were unassuming and had a good-hearted soul. You were well thought of by everyone who came to know you. You were loved and respected by not only your extended family, but also Rani’s family and all your friends. As friends, we laughed a lot and sometimes argued on political issues. I will miss your intelligence, sharp wit and your infectious laughter. You are a true friend and will live in our hearts until the day we meet again. May the good Lord treasure your soul in his garden of eternal peace. For now though, I bid you a fond farewell. Rest in peace my friend