Urmila Shashikant Damle , 82. Born Vijaya Vasant Bhide in Pune Maharashtra, on September 5th 1943 she earned a BSc in Chemistry from Pune University and a B.Ed from Mumbai University. She attended schools all over India due to her father’s army career and absorbed all the cultural traditions she could. “Vijutai” was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, mother in law, sister in law and aunt. A born teacher, she loved teaching us all not just math and science but about life in general. She had a great fondness for literature, both Marathi and English. Three days before her passing, she recited verses from a Marathi play to her brother, breathlessly but with passion. She was a creative and artistic person whether creating beautiful coasters and greeting cards, or presenting food for guests. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and never expected anything in return. Vijutai's calm, friendly and stoic nature was exemplary for us all, as she never let adversity get the better of her. Memories of her will be cherished by all who know her.
