Motilal R. Gunaratna

Born on November 16, 1938 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Motilal was the oldest of four children. After a childhood of being afraid of hospitals (specifically, doctors coming outside to stick needles in him as he rode past), he went on to dedicate 46 years to a distinguished career as an obstetrician-gynecologist, providing around-the-clock care and dedicated support to many patients. Because he was meticulous and passionate about his profession, he was renowned for his work all around Sri Lanka.

Motilal immigrated to New York from Kegalle, Sri Lanka on October 21, 2007, accompanied by his wife and youngest daughter. In his leisure time, he enjoyed taking long walks in nature, drawing, stargazing, listening to music, and reading about various subjects. He also liked to assemble model cars and planes, and spending time with his friends, Bob and Joan.

Motilal had a great love of learning, and an even greater sweet tooth. He was a treasure trove of historical and scientific information, and enjoyed passing his knowledge on to whoever would sit down and listen to him.

Motilal is survived by his loving wife, Sitthi Razeena Cader, and his daughters, Dilhara Mendis and Shalini Gunaratna. He also leaves behind his sisters, Indira Richards and Shirani Wijesekera. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Norman Gunaratna and Regina Mudiappah, and his brother, Arjuna Gunaratna.

Motilal was cremated on November 12th, 2024 at the Garden State Crematory in North Bergen, New Jersey. His life and legacy will be remembered by all who knew him as a husband, father, and a caring physician.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal."