Joy Kannarkat
I first met Thampi (Jacob) in 1976 while visiting his parents in Kadathi on account of his brother, my friend Sunny in Norfolk. Thampi was contemplating migrating to USA then, and upon his arrival in Norfolk we cherished family friendship for years engaging in various activities before his abrupt relocation to Florida. Though this move was puzzling then, now I understand it was because of his instinctive love for soil and year around farming. We visited him occasionally, attended his son's wedding, and met during his visits to Norfolk. We fondly cherish memories of the times Thampi and his two little boys coming along and going for fishing with my two little kiddos. These fishing episodes included the traditional Kerala style fishing: you spin around and cast/throw the net that spins and spreads over the water and then pulls the net out of the water with fish trapped inside. This was an enchanting and amusing scenario for the little ones.
Thampi had his idiosyncrasies around his stubborn personality trait, but beneath I always saw his simplicity, humility, hospitality, sincerity, helpful disposition, and sense of humor.
We are deeply saddened by his demise and pray for Lord's mercy on his soul. Our heartfelt condolences to his wife Alice, and the family members along with our prayers to console their grieving hearts.
With fond memories.
Joy & Elizabeth Kannarkat
