Nirmala K. Bhandari

We celebrate the life of Nirmala Kumari Bhandari (née Mehta), who passed away on the morning of September 30, 2019, at 89 years old (January 26, 1930). She leaves behind her husband of 70 years, Ranbir, daughters Amita (Thomas Preisser), Neelam (Navnit Bhalla), Roopa Bhandari, and son Ameesh (Phylis) Bhandari. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren (Aman, Alex, Vikram, Varun, Meenakshi, Sonia, Alisha, and Jeremy), six great-grandchildren, a sister (Devi Thappar), three brothers (Pran Nath, Prem Nath and Praful Nath Mehta), and nieces and nephews beyond counting. Born in India, Nirmala moved to East Africa where she and her husband married, and began their family. She gave her time freely to community functions while serving her husband’s family, and also had a successful professional life as a teacher for many years. In Nairobi Nirmala also found time to host a radio program women's issues and the arts. The family subsequently moved to Canada and then the United States. She made a family home first in Pittsfield, Massachusetts before relocating to Orlando. She was well-respected in her community, and took part in many International and Indian functions. Along with her husband, Nirmala was well known for hosting foreign students in her home and was an active member of the International Club, where she received honors for her excellent contribution towards furthering international harmony among nations. Wherever her home was, it was always open to others. They were greeted warmly and welcomed without reservation. She loved to laugh, dance, and knit and sew, and she was an outstanding cook and hostess. She had a keen intellect and read a great deal of novels and various other books in three languages. She was a beautiful, sophisticated and intelligent woman who always put her family first. While it is not possible to list all her many accomplishments, suffice to say she was a strong, bright and caring woman, and totally aware of current events and trends worldwide, and all who knew her will miss her engaging personality, cheerful laughter, and the joy she brought with her. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions In the honor of Nirmala Bhandari to The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, 18 N. Terry Ave., Orlando Florida 32801 Funeral Friday October 4. 2019 Woodlawn Cemetery in Gotha Florida 10-11 Viewing. 11-12 Prayer Service