Dr. Subramanyeswara Rao Chalasani, true patriarch to his family and friends, passed away on September 20th, 2021 at age 81. Though he spent the majority of his life in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, his strong presence was felt across the ocean in his native India.
His passions spanned both cultures. He spent Game Day watching his beloved Tigers and Saints. The rest of his week was devoted to his family and friends. His family, especially his grandchildren, filled his heart and days.
Dr. Chalasani is the true embodiment of the American Dream. He immigrated to the U.S. and built a thriving family and psychiatric practice while giving a helping hand to those who aspired for the same so they too could achieve their dreams. His nieces and nephews from India enjoyed the generosity of his home and mentorship. His legacy will live on in each and every person who had the good fortune of knowing him. For all this and more, he is truly irreplaceable and will be eternally missed.
Born in Bhatlapenumarru, Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Chalasani studied medicine at Rangaraya Medical College in Kakinada and trained in Psychiatry at UTMB Galveston. In his 5 decades of practice, he has been steadfastly dedicated to his patients, colleagues, staff and community. They have all repaid him with their loyalty, love and confidence.
He is survived by his wife, Sivakumari Chalasani; his daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Renu Chalasani and Mr. Reuben Swartz & their children, Nathan & Neela, and his son and daughter- in-law, Dr.’s Ramu & Madhavi Chalasani and their children, Sai and Sheila. He is also survived by his sisters, Suseela Dasari, Devika Rani Gottipatti, and his brother Anil Chalasani.
Public visitation will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021 from 11am to 12pm at Rabenhorst Funeral Home Downtown, 825 Government St. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to MD Anderson through charitynagivator.org, in Dr. Rao Chalasani’s name.
