Tissa Ranjith Athukorala

Tony Korala, known as "Tissa Athukorala", passed away on September 21, 2019 from complications related to a brain injury. Tissa, surrounded by his loving family on his passing, is survived by his wife Rajini, daughter Sharnel Mesirow, son Ashan Korala, and their spouses Nicholas Mesirow and Ashley Korala, grandsons Navin, Suren, Ayaan, granddaughter Aila, and sister Shanthi Premachandra. A celebration of life service will be held at Finley Sunset Hills Mortuary, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR 97225, on Sunday, September 29, 2019 at 11:00 am. There will be a viewing starting at 9:00 am preceding the service. Reception to follow at 1:00 pm at the Multnomah Athletic Club Grand Ballroom 1849 SW Salmon St, Portland, OR 97205. Tissa was born in Kandy, Sri Lanka on August 22, 1947, to Alfred and Susima Perera. He was a voracious reader who excelled academically. With the untimely death of his father at 19-years old, Tissa was forced him to give up school and start work. He pursued a career in chemistry at the Kandy Private Hospital, where he met his wife Rajini. They married on August 25, 1973. In February 1981, Tissa immigrated to Portland, Oregon his adopted home. In 1986, Tissa gained his US Citizenship and was naturalized as "Tony Korala." Tony worked for Legacy Emanuel Hospital for 37-years and he earned his MBA. Tony had a passion for life and prioritized his family over notoriety or personal gain. He supported several philanthropic organizations including being a founding member of the revitalized Oregon Buddhist Vihara. Always together, Tony and Rajini have explored over 20 countries. Tony's kind nature was amplified by his bright smile and hearty laugh. He was a confidant to many, and implored for his wise counsel. Tony will be dearly missed as an ideal husband, father and friend.