Dr. Vickram Ramkumar

June 2, 1957 - December 9, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we bid farewell to Dr. Vickram Ramkumar, an esteemed Professor of Pharmacology at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, who peacefully departed this world on December 9, 2023.

Born on June 2, 1957, in De Hoop Mahaica, Guyana, Dr. Ramkumar dedicated over four decades of his life to the pursuit of scientific knowledge and academic excellence. His insatiable curiosity led him to earn a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Maryland at Baltimore, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the Duke University Medical School. Beyond his distinguished career, Dr. Ramkumar was a man of diverse interests and passions.

An avid collector of antiquities, he owned the Sangamon Antique Mall in Springfield, Illinois, where his keen eye for detail captured the beauty and uniqueness of every artifact, from a superman marble to the intricacies of carving on ivory.

Dr. Ramkumar’s fascination with the natural world extended to his passion for photography, reflecting his profound appreciation for life’s intricate details. Known for his quiet demeanor and compassionate nature, he valued human kindness in everyday interactions, always extending a helping hand to those less fortunate with respect and dignity.

In the realm of scientific exploration, Dr. Ramkumar’s focus was on unraveling the mechanisms underlying noise and drug-induced hearing loss. His commitment to finding tangible targets for innovative treatments aimed to alleviate the distress of hearing impairment resulting in the development of patents for treatment. Over the years, he mentored and taught medical students and graduated over 15 Ph.D. students, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific field with over 100 peer-reviewed and invited review articles and books.

In addition to his groundbreaking work in hearing loss, Dr. Vickram Ramkumar’s research contributions extended to myriad scientific areas, including cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s, prostate cancer, HIV, and hearing loss. His multidisciplinary approach and unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge have left an enduring impact on diverse fields, reflecting his profound influence and dedication to the betterment of human health.

On January 6, 2004, Dr. Ramkumar married the love of his life, Dr. Debashree Mukherjea, in Springfield. He is survived by his devoted wife and their three children: Rohan, Isha, and Anish.

His profound love for his children was an integral part of his life, shaping him as a dedicated father and nurturing individual. As a family man, he prioritized the well-being and growth of his three children. His commitment to their education and personal development reflected his unwavering devotion to their future.

Dr. Ramkumar found immense joy and purpose in his role as a father. He took great pride in witnessing each milestone and accomplishment of his children, celebrating their successes with genuine enthusiasm. Whether it was academic achievements, artistic endeavors, or personal triumphs, Dr. Ramkumar’s love provided a supportive foundation for his children to flourish.

Additionally, he leaves behind his father Papas, two brothers, Albert and Rabindranath, and five sisters: Vijanti, Elaine, Joyce, Sabitri, and Indramattie.

A memorial service to celebrate Dr. Vickram Ramkumar’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 East Allen Street.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial tributes be made to Dr. Ramkumar’s children’s education fund. For more information, please contact the Funeral Home. Condolences and cherished memories of Dr. Ramkumar can be shared at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com.

https://gofund.me/d0ccfc97

May the legacy of Dr. Vickram Ramkumar continue to inspire, and may he rest in eternal peace.