Always in our thoughts - Grieving Malayalee Community

Best known for bringing people together and organizing social and cultural events, Benoy Cheriyan was also an orator who won numerous awards in debates and elocutions, including the first prize in (Indian) Intercollegiate Elocution Competition. Literature and social work were his passions.After an eight-month long gallant fight, Benoy T. Cheriyan succumbed to the ravages of cancer and died under the watchful eyes of his family and friends on 30 June 2005 at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was 45.

Benoy Cheriyan took active part in the activities of our Malayalee Community in Rochester. He started as the Treasurer and then became the active President of the our Association, energizing and expanding its activities. Benoy started a prayer group for Malayalee Christians. The larger Indian Community of Rochester, too, benefited from his organizing abilities.

In addition to wife Reeta (SLC Citi Group), Benoy is survived by daughters Maria (15) and Anna (7), parents Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Cheriyan, brother Bijoy, and sister Bini.