Dr. Ramesh C. Sinha passed away peacefully at Ruddy Shenkman Hospice, on June 14, 2020. Dr. Sinha was born on February 10, 1934 in Bareilly, India to Bhavani Prasad and Ram Pyari. He received his Master’s in Science from Lucknow University in Plant Pathology (1956) and Ph.D. (1960) and D.Sc. from the University of London (1974). After spending five years (1960-65) at the University of Illinois, Urbana, as a post-doctoral fellow, he joined Agriculture Canada as a Research Scientist in 1965. Dr. Sinha served as Associate Editor of Virology during 1971-74. In 1985, he was appointed Chairman of the Plant Microbe Interaction Program. During his tenure at Agriculture Canada, he published over 97 journal articles and book chapters. He was also honoured as Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1985 for achievements in the field of Plant Virology and Mycoplasmology. After a stellar career, he retired from Agriculture Canada in 1997.

Dr. Sinha is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Indu Bala Sinha, his son, Sanjeev Sinha, daughter, Sangita Srivastava, and five grandchildren: Anisha Sinha, Anuja Sinha, Sachin Sinha, Dr. Romik Srivastava and Sayuj Srivastava. His siblings include two brothers: Late Narain Singh Srivastava, Suresh C. Sinha and a sister, Late Sushila Srivastava. He also has a daughter-in- law, Sandhya Sinha and a son-in-law, Dr. Mahendra Srivastava.

A loving husband, a caring father and an affectionate grandfather, Dr. Sinha was a friend to many in the scientific and Indian community in Ottawa. He could always be counted on to help his friends and community whether it be organizing celebratory events or by consoling and handling affairs after tragedies. His absence will be felt by all but his friendship and ever-loving memories will remain with us.

Even with a life so full of accomplishments, Dr. Sinha’s greatest pride lied in his five grandchildren. Throughout each of all their lives, he remained a prevalent figure of love and generosity, keeping their success and happiness as a priority in his life. His unconditional love and support has been a driving force in all their successes. A piece of him is contained in each of them and in everything they do and will continue to be as they carry his memory moving forward.

Unfortunately, due to the current COVID crisis, there is no funeral service scheduled. The family appreciates the thoughts and prayers of everyone. We are sure, in due course, we will have time to celebrate a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Ottawa Food Bank.