A tribute to Uncle Lakshman

Lakshman Balasuriya 

By Rehan Jayawickreme

My family and I were in Melbourne for the Christmas holidays in December when I received a call from my father-in-law, Nahil. He said, “Rehan, Lakshman has passed away, and I am on my way to the hospital.”

The surge of emotion that followed is difficult to describe. I struggled to stay on my feet, and the next thing I recall is sitting on the sidewalk, trying to understand how a man I believed to be healthy and strong was suddenly gone. Without hesitation, we booked the earliest available flight. That instinctive decision felt automatic.

After reading several memorial pieces written about him, I felt compelled to put my own reflections into words about someone who profoundly influenced my life.

Lakshman Balasuriya, or simply “Uncle Lakshman” to me, was married to my mother’s sister, Janine. He was an exceptional individual, possessing qualities that often feel rare in today’s world. Soft spoken, dignified, and what Sri Lankans would describe as a true gentleman.

I cannot recall a single instance where he raised his voice. His responses were always thoughtful, composed, and considerate. That calm dignity defined who he was, and his parents would have been deeply proud of the man he became.

He shared a deep bond with his children, Amanthi and Keshav, and took great pride in their achievements, both academic and personal. Through them, he was blessed with four wonderful grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He loved each of them deeply and took genuine happiness in watching them grow, learn, and develop their own personalities. Time spent with his grandchildren, together with his wife and children, gave him a sense of peace and fulfillment that meant everything to him.

I am certain he envisioned growing old alongside those he loved most. Sadly, destiny chose a different path, cutting short what could have been many more years filled with shared happiness. That said, I know he would have urged us not to linger in sorrow.

I cannot detail everything he did for me throughout my life. Much of it remains personal, and discretion was central to who he was. He avoided attention and never fit the stereotype of a wealthy man. Modesty, kindness, and sincerity defined him.

Some of the most valuable guidance I have ever received came from him. He frequently reminded me to remain composed during challenging moments. One conversation stands out clearly. He once told me, “When you attend television debates, never resort to personal attacks. Do not lower yourself to that level. Focus on policy.” That counsel stayed with me, and I strive to live by it.

Another principle he embodied was humility above all else. Despite leading one of Sri Lanka’s most respected financial institutions, he never employed personal security and drove a modest car to and from work each day. That alone revealed how little importance he placed on status or material display.

He kept a small circle, valuing privacy above everything else. Among those closest to him was Krishantha Prasad Cooray, perhaps his dearest friend. Their bond felt almost karmic, as though forged long before this lifetime. It was KC who took Uncle Lakshman to the hospital and remained by his side until the very end.

When I spoke to KC from Melbourne, his response was immediate and heartbreaking. “Aiyo malli, I did everything I could, but we couldn’t save him. This has shaken me deeply. I don’t know what to say or do.” I have known KC aiya my entire life and had never seen him so emotionally shattered. That reaction alone reflects the depth of Uncle Lakshman’s impact. Even the strongest were left broken, which speaks volumes about the man he was.

In my view, Uncle Lakshman fulfilled every measure of a complete life. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a caring grandfather, and a respected and respectful employer. Above all, there was not a trace of dishonesty, jealousy, envy, or malice within him. To me, that is the truest definition of character.

Thank you, Uncle Lakshman, for having faith in me when others did not. Thank you for your guidance, your quiet support, and the example you set for all of us. I will miss you always, but I will treasure every memory we shared.

“As you live, you will be remembered by what you leave behind. A life shaped by integrity, compassion, and humility never truly ends.”