Lazar Anumappa Kalluri

In Loving Memory: Lazar Anumappa Kalluri (December 3, 1945 – July 8, 2023)
Our beloved father and grandfather, Lazar Anumappa Kalluri, peacefully departed this world on July 8 th , 2023, at the age of 77, surrounded by his four children at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. Lazar leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering strength that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Lazar was born on December 3rd, 1945, in Mahboobnagar, near Hyderabad, India, to the late Anumappa and Shanta Amma. He was the fourth of seven children, with four sisters and two brothers, and held the position of the eldest son. When Lazar was in 5th grade, his father passed away, and as the eldest son, he assumed the responsibility of caring for his siblings and mother. He inherited over 40 acres of ancestral land, which is still productive, yielding rice, peanuts, and lentils. Lazar divided the land equally among his siblings and ensured their well-being until his final days. He wholeheartedly supported his siblings and their families, displaying unconditional love and ensuring their education and sustenance. As a result of his efforts, three of his nephews became a doctor, a pharmacist, and a civil engineer. Lazar also led his family's conversion to Christianity. He was a man of integrity and compassion, wholeheartedly dedicated to his family and friends. Throughout his life, he touched the lives of countless individuals with his warm smile, gentle nature, and willingness to lend a helping hand. His selflessness knew no bounds, leaving a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was deeply passionate about learning and was the first in his family to actively pursue higher education. Lazar excelled quickly, winning many awards including the school’s best student award in mathematics studies. Mrs. Rathna Seshappa, the Dean of Methodist mission schools, adopted Lazar as her son due to his extraordinary intellect and dedication to his studies. She guided him in pursuing his college degree, and he was forever grateful and admired her throughout his life. He was awarded a Methodist merit scholarship by the Methodist church to pursue college and earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Allahabad. After graduating, Lazar worked at Andhra Bank Headquarters in Koti, Hyderabad, India, and was appointed as the Branch Chief Officer during his tenure there.

To fund his education, Lazar worked as a teacher during his summer breaks. During one of those summers, he met his late wife Pramila while they were working together in a mission school in Chandrakal, Hyderabad. Lazar and Pramila were married for 42 years and had 4 children, Dimple, Simple, Twinkle, and Emmanuel. Their love was an inspiration to all who witnessed it, a true testament to the power of commitment and devotion. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

As a father, Lazar was an unwavering source of strength and guidance. His children were the center of his universe. He instilled in them the values of honesty, perseverance, and empathy. He taught them to find joy in life's simple pleasures and always cherish family’s importance.

Lazar’s love for his children knew no bounds, and his unwavering support and encouragement will forever be treasured.

Although he had a great life in India, he relinquished his position and luxuries to move to the United States for his wife. In the 1980s, Lazar, along with his wife and son, relocated to Queens, New York, and eventually settled in Silver Spring, Maryland. They were later joined by his three daughters. Lazar was a devoted, loving, and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He was a man of few words, practical, and humble in his faith. He wholeheartedly embraced his role as a grandfather and shared a special bond with all three of his grandchildren: Babu, Wolfy, and Ronnie. He often spent quality time with them, taking them to the park, and eagerly looked forward to attending their school performances.

After relocating to Maryland, Lazar worked in accounting and as an auditor for many years, displaying a keen analytical mind and a strong work ethic that was admired by many of his colleagues. Despite experiencing a few failed business ventures, he persevered and continued his studies, ultimately earning a two-year nursing degree. Lazar was a self-made man, renowned for his strong principles, diligence, and integrity. He was not only admired for his professional accomplishments but also for his talent in building meaningful connections and fostering a sense of camaraderie among his colleagues.

Lazar had a zest for life and pursued his passions with enthusiasm. In his youth, he loved to travel and actively followed the sport of cricket. He was a big fan of the Washington Redskins and the Chicago Bulls, while also keeping up with American and Indian politics. Lazar was a dedicated coin collector and stayed up to date on world events, sharing these hobbies with his children and grandchildren. Additionally, he found solace and beauty in nature's creations as an avid gardener. Lazar possessed a keen interest in history, spending countless hours immersed in books and documentaries. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge were truly admirable, and he eagerly shared his wisdom with those around him.

Lazar's presence will be sorely missed, but his memory will forever live on. He leaves behind a family united in grief, yet strengthened by the love he showered upon them. His unconditional love for his family, peace-loving nature, kindness, and generosity to all who knew him will be forever remembered. He was cherished and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. His spirit will continue to guide us through life's challenges, and his legacy will forever remind us of the importance of love, compassion, principles, and perseverance.

With love, KALLURI FAMILY.

To our dearest father, grandfather, and friend: Although our hearts ache with grief, we take solace in the knowledge that you are now at peace. We are forever grateful for the love and wisdom you shared, and the beautiful memories we created together. Until we meet again, rest in eternal peace, dear Dad and Grandpa Lazar.