

Raj was born on February 13, 1938, in Kanjrur, in what is now Pakistan. As a young boy, he experienced one of the most significant events of the twentieth century when his family was displaced during the Partition of India. They eventually settled in Gurdaspur, Punjab, before making their home in New Delhi. Though the journey began in uncertainty, it shaped the strength, determination and optimism that would define the rest of his life.
In New Delhi, Raj studied Civil Engineering at Delhi University and began his career at AIIMS, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Annamma. She was a nurse, he was an engineer and together they began a partnership that would span decades, countries, adventures and countless cherished memories.
After marrying in Ontario, Canada, Raj and Annamma built a life rooted in courage and possibility. Their journey eventually brought them to Fanwood, New Jersey, where they raised their three children and built an amazing life then finally settled in Sarasota, Florida.
Raj enjoyed a successful career with Prudential Insurance where he worked for nearly three decades. Through hard work, integrity and perseverance, he became one of the most successful agents for the company earning numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
He was a gifted bhangra dancer whose energy could light up a room. He was a lover of old Hindi films and the timeless songs of his youth, melodies that connected him to cherished memories and simpler days. He was an enthusiastic traveler who delighted in exploring the world alongside his beloved Annamma. He was a committed volunteer in his community and an active supporter of the Democratic Party, believing deeply in civic engagement and the responsibility of giving back. He also had a special talent for finding luck at the casino slot machines, much to the amusement of family and friends.
Raj was Grandpa, Daji and Nanaji to his seven grandchildren, Saira, Riya, Nick, Yash, Amalia, Deven and Kaleb. He was not only their grandfather but a teacher, storyteller, advisor and lecturer. His "Nanaji talks" became a beloved family tradition. Whether offering life lessons, sharing stories from decades past or giving advice that may or may not have been requested, he spoke from a place of deep love and a sincere desire to help those he cherished, navigate the world.
Raj was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annamma Dogra, whose absence he felt deeply. Their love story was one of devotion, partnership and unwavering commitment. Together they built a family that became their greatest achievement.
He leaves behind his children, Veena Kashyap, Amit and Karen Dogra and Renu and Marc Greenberg; his seven grandchildren, family across the world and a community of friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.
The measure of a life is not found in the years we are given, but in the lives we touch along the way. Raj's journey carried him from a small village touched by history, across continents and cultures, through triumphs and challenges and into the hearts of countless people who loved him.
His family will remember his generosity, his wisdom, his humor, his dancing, his stories and his unwavering love. Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life fully lived and a man who left the world better than he found it.
Dad, Daddu, Daji, Nanaji, best friend, mentor and beloved partner, you will be deeply missed, forever loved and always remembered.
A Funeral Service will be held on June 5, 2026, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm, with a live stream available at https://www.youtube.com/live/LrBbRwTpaA8, followed by Witness Cremation on June 5, 2026, beginning at 12:00 pm.
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