Surender Kant Sharma

Surender Kant Sharma, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in Lake Worth, FL, on October 19, 2024. He lived his life with unwavering discipline, kindness, loyalty, and strength—qualities that profoundly impacted everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on July 10, 1938, in Iraq to Krishan Datt Sharma and Shyam Devi (Mehta) Sharma, Surender was the fourth of their children. At the tender age of four, he returned to India with his family, where they built their cherished home in Patrar, Solan. Surender was full of adventure and mischief from an early age, exploring the breathtaking Himalayan mountains and forests with his older brother, Davender. Together, they trekked to their ancestral village, visiting uncles and aunts and forging memories that would last a lifetime. His sister, Prabha Atreya, married to Pyare Mohan Atreya, often delighted the family with tales of their childhood escapades, celebrating his spirited and courageous nature.

Surender pursued Mechanical Engineering at Delhi Polytechnic, embarking on a career with the Military Engineering Service that took him across various parts of India. When it came time to find a suitable match, he proposed to Veena Pandit, a woman he had known through family ties for many years. Their families had a long history of respect and admiration for one another. Veena, a recent graduate with an MA in Sanskrit, agreed to the match, and their life together unfolded in beautiful and unexpected ways.

They were married on October 4, 1970, and soon settled in Chandigarh, where their first daughter, Shikha, was born at PGI. Their second daughter, Shefali, followed shortly thereafter, arriving in a memorable home delivery that required a ride on Surender’s trusty scooter to pick up the doctor. Together, they embraced life as a family of four, navigating the busy streets on their scooter and enjoying evening walks, laughter, and conversations with neighbors. Celebrations at the local mandir brought joy and connection to their lives.

Summer visits to Solan became precious traditions, where Surender introduced his daughters to the cool mountain air and village trails. They picked plums and savored the freedom of childhood, creating bonds that would strengthen their family ties with his younger brother, Vijay Kant Sharma, sister-in-law, Maya Sharma, and family, as well as with his parents. Surender’s own childhood adventures became shared experiences, enriching his daughters’ lives with the same joy he had known.

The family faced a pivotal moment in 1979 with the passing of Surender’s father, prompting a significant decision about their future. Surender and Veena chose to move to Florida, supported by his brothers who offered guidance during this transformative time. Leaving behind their families and familiar surroundings, they embarked on a journey filled with both excitement and trepidation. After a brief stop in London for Christmas with his older brother, Dr. Krishan Kant Sharma, sister-in-law, Pratibha Sharma, and family, they arrived in Palm Beach County on December 25, 1979, ready to embrace new opportunities. They were introduced to life in the US by his brother, Davender Kant, his wife, Joan Kant, and family.

In America, Surender worked diligently for over 20 years in the Department of Housing and Community Development for Palm Beach County. He instilled a strong work ethic in his daughters, Shikha and Shefali, offering unwavering support as they pursued their dreams. As their lives grew and blossomed—Shikha marrying Tejas Katwala and Shefali marrying Eliezer Hernandez—Surender welcomed four beautiful grandchildren Nitya Kaya, Sia, Risa, and Ravi, bringing boundless joy and purpose to his life.

Throughout his retirement, Surender dedicated himself to nurturing his family and building connections, even a second career. Honesty was at the core of his character, shaping his choices and the advice he offered to others. He was a man of wisdom and insight, able to connect with people from all walks of life through his warmth and humor. His passion for Indian politics and history fueled engaging conversations, especially with his nephews and close friends.

In his final months, Surender found comfort in small, meaningful moments. One of the greatest joys during those days was his morning coffee with his brother Davender. Affectionately known as “coffee with Sindh,” these moments became a cherished part of his routine. Each cup was an opportunity to share memories, enjoy conversation, and reflect on a lifetime of love and brotherhood. These simple gatherings offered him joy and peace, reminding him of their bond from childhood to their final days together.

Surender Kant Sharma leaves behind a profound legacy of love, laughter, and treasured memories. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, who will continue to honor his values of loyalty, hard work, and kindness. He was a guiding light in their lives, and his lessons will resonate for generations to come. Surender’s life was a beautiful journey, marked by the deep connections he forged and the love he shared, and while he may have departed this world, his impact will be felt forever.

Surender will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, sister and sisters-in-law, as well as a legion of nephews, nieces and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Surender Sharma to The American Cancer Society