We created a memorial page to celebrate the life of Eruch Parbhoo. Collecting your stories, memories, and photos here will offer us great comfort.
OBITUARY
Eruch embodied the best of humanity. He was charming, brilliant, and compassionate and sincerely cared about every person he encountered. He showed us that true strength was born out of love and kindness, that true security came from opening your heart up to world.
Even as an older man, he never succumbed to the fear that seems to come with age, that wants to hate the 'other', to keep things like they were in the 'good old days'. He... see more
Eruch embodied the best of humanity. He was charming, brilliant, and compassionate and sincerely cared about every person he encountered. He showed us that true strength was born out of love and kindness, that true security came from opening your heart up to world.
Even as an older man, he never succumbed to the fear that seems to come with age, that wants to hate the 'other', to keep things like they were in the 'good old days'. He was always forward thinking and wanted what's best for all, especially the weak and voiceless.
Forty years ago he suffered a paralyzing stroke that should have taken his life. Instead, through pure determination, he embraced his condition and met each new day with gratitude and humility. Rather than feeling sorry for himself, he reserved his empathy for the down trodden, always giving what little he had to those who needed it most.
He'll also be remembered for his sly sense of humor. Often he was the only one in on the joke (whether waving to an invisible friend or laughing in bed at some stray thought), but his joy was contagious. His levity drew people in and made us feel that, even the in darkest moments, everything was going to be ok.
He was eternally playful and sharp. He never missed an episode of Jeopardy nor shied away from giving you an earful about the latest issue of the day. He was true to himself to the very end and we all loved him for it.
Eric, there was no way for us to celebrate Christmas or even have a simple get together without missing your presence and remembering you. I miss you and wish you were still with us. I look at our pictures together with our children and family, and I am... moreEric, there was no way for us to celebrate Christmas or even have a simple get together without missing your presence and remembering you. I miss you and wish you were still with us. I look at our pictures together with our children and family, and I am reminded of how solid our relationship was. Despite the separation we had, we had great respect for each other, and genuine love. We both wanted the other to be happy. If my choices showed some selfishness, you forgave me, because you understood and cared. It is no wonder that our children are good spouses and parents. We, like my parents before us, set a good example to them. I pray that our legacy continues through them. I already see yours in everything they do. Love and miss you. P. S. I cannot help but wonder and smile when I think that you and Alex Trebek might have already started together Jeopardy in Heaven. I know that you will be his first participant :). May your soul rest in peace. Keep us in your prayers since you are much closer the Almighty today than we are. less
I got to really know my dad and bond with him after he had his stroke. Dad was always loving of course, but he was old school when I was very young and he was more like a principal whose main job was to educate and train me. Unlike the way most fathers... moreI got to really know my dad and bond with him after he had his stroke. Dad was always loving of course, but he was old school when I was very young and he was more like a principal whose main job was to educate and train me. Unlike the way most fathers are today, fathers back then were a bit distant, busy with their work and adult life and spent most of the time they spent with their kids instructing and setting down the law. Oh there were times when I would want to sneak away from the strict Briitish style education LOL!
But after he had his stroke, unfortunately he lost his job and stayed at home. And as part of his physical therapy, he had to walk daily for about 30 minutes to an hour. He would come down (we lived in an apartment building in Kuwait) to walk in the front of our building daily in sight of where my friends and I were playing soccer. He would walk on his own back and forth about 50 yards each direction and one day I decided to join him. It was hard to give up time to play soccer at my age (I was maybe 6? 7?) but watching him walking on his own made me sad. So I walked with him that day.
Then I walked with him the day after, and the day after. Suddenly it became our thing. I'd walk with him almost everyday and slowly he opened up to me. It was a very tough time for dad. In Kuwait, once you were disabled physically, like from a stroke, they didn't expect you to work and even wondered why you would want to. And for all who know my dad, you know how self reliant and independent he was. This was a hard pill to swallow. It was tough to see his wife have to go to work to support the family when he couldn't get a job.
SIDE NOTE: I must say. my mom did so much for us in those days and the weight she had to carry was tremendous and I honor her for what she did. A lot of times people only see the person with the physical disability and feel with them. Often...too often, the anguish and struggle the spouse or loved one who is caring for them endures is not visible or acknowledged.
At first he was angry and bitter. Can you blame anyone for feeling like this?? Stroke in mid to late 40's. Lost job. Old fashioned man (when it came to this) not being able to support his family and seeing his wife have to work even more?
What was amazing was being able to see him evolve in those days...on our walks. To see a man who had to come to terms with tough realities. Who had to decide how he was going to live the rest of his life. To be bitter and angry or find peace somehow.
We would discuss many subjects as we'd walk. We'd discuss his travels, his memories from childhood, Egypt, etc. We would talk about the world. I always loved geography and always wanted to see every country, so he would share what he knew about different exotic places. But more importantly we bonded like father and son. He became a dear friend to me, not just a father.
Watching him through his faith, his strong will and mind go beyond anger and bitterness was a HUGE lesson to me as a human. Dad was not perfect and he'd be upset with you if you tried to say so. But his inner strength, his ability to Let Go and Let God will always be like a beacon of light to remind me when I feel down or depressed, that there is always a path through.
Ammo Eruch was always kind, sincere and tolerant. Omar and I we’re always being little rascals coming into the apartment at odd hours and he was MORE than tolerant with Omar and I. I remember how warm our encounters were. He is a gentlemen at the core.
Eric was my brother-in-law. He will be terribly missed! He touched my life and the life of others in such a positive way. I have many nice memories of Eric, but my fondest memory of him was when my brother Nabil and I lived with him in Bombay, India. It... moreEric was my brother-in-law. He will be terribly missed! He touched my life and the life of others in such a positive way. I have many nice memories of Eric, but my fondest memory of him was when my brother Nabil and I lived with him in Bombay, India. It was our first year of college and everything was new to us and we were very apprehensive, but Eric made sure to make it one of the best times in our lives. I remember Eric instantly making us feel welcomed! He treated us like we were his brothers. He was also our mentor and a teacher. Anytime we needed advice he was there to guide us. After a long week of studies and commuting to college, he would always make the weekends special and fun for us…. taking us to Juhu Beach, lunch, swimming, visiting friends and family. He truly enjoyed life to its fullest!
As a sister-in-law, I remember how strong, kind and generous Eric was. He had such a bright and beautiful smile, a smile that represented his beautiful spirit and his love for life! He had a lot of kindness in him that he shared with others… I don’t ever remember a time that he wasn’t kind and caring! It was always so comfortable talking with him. He always had a calmness about him that made it so effortless! I do remember him being very wise and always great with a story.
We are truly blessed to have known Eric! He has gone away from this life, but never from our hearts. Our deepest condolences to Sami, Natalie, Omar, Miranda, and his extended family. Hope you are comforted knowing that so many others loved and are missing him too…… George and Monica Hirezi less
Mr. Eruch was a beautiful person, humble man, and a gentle soul. He will live on in his beautiful family he helped create and shape. Thank you for molding your son, my dear friend, and brother Sami into the man he has become. He, in your likeness, is... moreMr. Eruch was a beautiful person, humble man, and a gentle soul. He will live on in his beautiful family he helped create and shape. Thank you for molding your son, my dear friend, and brother Sami into the man he has become. He, in your likeness, is a true gift to me, and my family. We love you and miss you. God Blesd less
Omar, Amee, and the Parbhoos - We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Sending our thoughts and love from afar. With love, John Plaisted, Nancy Widjaja, Alice Tang
So many memories. Snippets here and there, so I'll post as I remember them more clearly.
My dad was quite tough on me as a child.
It seems like fathers are the most strict with their first-born (I see that even with me with Layla as compared to Noah... moreSo many memories. Snippets here and there, so I'll post as I remember them more clearly.
My dad was quite tough on me as a child.
It seems like fathers are the most strict with their first-born (I see that even with me with Layla as compared to Noah & Ava). As a young mischievous boy in Kuwait who only wanted to play soccer, dad was like a military captain. His British educational system upbringing made him a very detailed and strict authoritarian.
At a very young age I learned the importance of working hard on homework, education and studying. How? If I didn't do my homework well, if I didn't have good handwriting or misspelled a word and couldn't erase it gently, my homework was ripped and I had to start over, taking away from my time playing soccer with my friends. Oh, it was very soon that I learned to do better.
As strict as he was (sometimes I'd picture myself escaping like the movie The Great Escape, crawling under tables and sneaking past everyone to go play) he always showed how much he loved me. I think that is a VERY important combination in being a good parent. If you are going to be military strict with your child, you must also show tenderness. And he definitely did that. less
Miranda Hirezi-Mugnier
No way!!! wow! where did you get these pictures of Eric's and my wedding? Once upon a time.. Love the memory and the pictures. Thank you Benaifer for sharing.
There are too many memories to share in one post ..so I’ll post them as they come to me. Here is the 1st that comes to mind
My dad (daddio as I called him, he loved that nickname), is and was the best example of positivity and perseverance of a Hine... moreThere are too many memories to share in one post ..so I’ll post them as they come to me. Here is the 1st that comes to mind
My dad (daddio as I called him, he loved that nickname), is and was the best example of positivity and perseverance of a Hine I’ve ever known. I don’t remember one time that he was just angry or in a bad mood. He was always a ray of sunshine and I knew that every encounter was full of hugs, kisses, and love. It made me want to be with him, around him and often. When we would encounter any issues during the day or during any situation, my dad would quickly start troubleshooting and brainstorming on a solution.. and FAST... he wouldn’t let me do anything else before I or we could fix the issue at hand, and he would teach me to do it all calmly and thoughtfully ..no panic, no sense of hopelessness, just pure drive until the issue was fixed so that we could get on with our day. At first I hated this! But now appreciate this tool.. I’d say this is the single most important lesson I’ve learned. I live my life this way and no problem is stands in my way. I keep on until it’s solved. Thanks daddio ❤️ less
Where do I begin? Do I start by talking about the void Eric has left in my heart with his departure? or do I talk about the joy and meaning of life he brought into my life and the lives of those around me from the day I met him as a teenager in Cairo... moreWhere do I begin? Do I start by talking about the void Eric has left in my heart with his departure? or do I talk about the joy and meaning of life he brought into my life and the lives of those around me from the day I met him as a teenager in Cairo many years ago? Or, shall I talk about the simple joys I experienced first as a wife, and then as the immediate family member and friend to this unique man? Or shall I describe the amazing father he was to our three children, and four grandchildren?
It is very difficult to describe a soul that was as large as life... Eric was a walking encyclopedia, a comedian who carried hints of jokes in his back pocket, which he used to pull out at gatherings and cocktail parties to make everyone laugh; Eric was very handsome and charming. It was no surprise that he was known in the diplomatic circles in Cairo as the most eligible bachelor in Cairo. Eric was pure, honest, loyal and very loving.
Some people come and go in our lives, leaving very little of them inside us, but not Eric. With his generous spirit Eric gave so much of himself to each and everyone of us, which will remain with us forever. Before he died, Eric asked that his ashes be spread over various parts of the world. But, what he did not know is that during his lifetime he had already spread a small piece of him and his spirit inside every person who knew him.
But to me, Eric was much more than that. He was the noble spirit that loved me no matter what. When we separated and I moved to DC, for reasons beyond our control, he told me that while I should go and live my life, I will always be his wife. He kept his promise, and our wedding ring was still in his finger in his death bed. And when I remarried in 2015, he told me something that I will never ever forget. He said that now that our three children are married and settled, and I am married to a good man, he is at peace and is ready to go. Every time I remember his words I cannot hold my tears. How can any human being be this generous and forgiving? Eric was.. I will always love him and I miss him greatly. less
I don't have one memory or one story that encapsulates my uncle, but rather a series of feelings on how I'll remember him that I'll try to put into words. Uncle Eruch was:
- Intelligent: Jeopardy just turned into a lesson in humility around him. Before... moreI don't have one memory or one story that encapsulates my uncle, but rather a series of feelings on how I'll remember him that I'll try to put into words. Uncle Eruch was:
- Intelligent: Jeopardy just turned into a lesson in humility around him. Before Wikipedia, there was always Uncle Eruch. He showed me the value of knowledge, the power of intellectual curiosity, and that learning doesn't need a goal (the act is enough)
- Practical: Who needs a pantry when you have a dishwasher? Some people need material things or status symbols to convince themselves that they are happy but my uncle taught me that it's not hard to find contentment in everything when you're comfortable with yourself
- Proactively, optimistic: He led with a smile and followed up with action - always willing to stand up for what is right and to put his money where his mouth is. He taught me that true generosity isn't a one-time act that occurs after a culmination of success and excess, but rather a way of life that is consistently proven through the little acts that happen when no one is watching. Sami sharing "Imagine" and "What A Wonderful World" as songs he loved was a reminder of the things he valued
Uncle Eruch, you will be missed. I'll miss the joy and warmth you resonated, the feeling of welcome and belonging in your presence, and the kind, inviting smile that made everyone feel like family.
Love - Jonathan less
My memories of Eric go back to whenever I was in Cairo at 17 years old. I was still at the ELI (English Language Institue) preparing for the first semester at AUC. One evening Miranda informed me that she met two Indian guys who were studying French... moreMy memories of Eric go back to whenever I was in Cairo at 17 years old. I was still at the ELI (English Language Institue) preparing for the first semester at AUC. One evening Miranda informed me that she met two Indian guys who were studying French with her in her night classes at AUC, and that they would be visiting us at the dorm. The next day, two men arrived, one tall, very handsome young man in his twenties, and another, a little older with a much smaller stature. From the direction where the two men stood to greet me, I found my eyes followed the older man who stood so proudly and confidently. I knew right there and then the purpose of their visit. Knowing that Miranda always liked mature men, I guessed right then that her eyes where on Eric.
After marriage, Eric and Miranda took me under their wings. I was always there in their cocktail parties that included ambassadors of foreign countries and elite personalities. I was fascinated by Eric’s popularity among all these people. Everyone talked so highly of this man. The parties would have over forty or fifty people, yet he would be the star in his demeanour, conversation, and yes, jokes told.
During their residence in Cairo, Miranda and Eric assumed the responsibility of being my guardians. I remember one night my friends and I were craving French bread and sweet Arabic white cheese. So, I called Miranda and Eric around 10 or 11 pm. I casually mentioned that to her and 15 minutes later, the dorm’s receptionist called us to tell us that Eric and Miranda delivered French bread, cheese and other items, for all seven of us who shared the apartment. I still can remember the French bread crunch with that tasty cheese like it happened yesterday..
To say that he was the strongest man I have ever met would be an understatement. Despite his fragile body and the pains he endured for more than forty years, he always had a wide smile and sparkles in his eyes that made everyone around him feel so loved and appreciated.
My dear brother in law, you are already missed. May your soul rest in peace.
I was just a small kid when my grandfather, your brother passed away. Eruch uncle you were for me the grandfather I lost. I will always appreciate how you would teach me about arts and patience. I remember how you would play cards with your siblings.... moreI was just a small kid when my grandfather, your brother passed away. Eruch uncle you were for me the grandfather I lost. I will always appreciate how you would teach me about arts and patience. I remember how you would play cards with your siblings. You would always show me love and kindness. You reminded me of my own grandfather and I will always appreciate the time and the memories I have of you Eruch uncle. My mother would always share her memories of you and I wish I had more time with you. We were continents apart but you have always been close to me and in my thoughts. I miss you but now my grandfather will not be alone. Love you less
Everyone who knew Eruch Kaka will have good memories of him and so much to talk about him.
As Hormuz wrote about Eric Kaka's handwriting, I would like to share this story. When I was in my teens and had my first summer job I met an elderly man who had... moreEveryone who knew Eruch Kaka will have good memories of him and so much to talk about him.
As Hormuz wrote about Eric Kaka's handwriting, I would like to share this story. When I was in my teens and had my first summer job I met an elderly man who had worked for Air India. I mentioned to him that my uncle also works for Air India and he asked me his name. I told him his name was Eruch Parbhoo and he says Oh ! I remember Eruch. I thought he just said so to please me. But then he said I chose Eruch for his handwriting. He had interviewed Eruch Kaka when he had applied for the job. Just imagine to remember somebody for his beautiful handwriting after 20 odd years.
Eruch Kaka has done so much for me and my sibblings. He was like a father figure for us. He had a big heart like our Dad.
Eruch Kaka will always be in our thoughts and heart. Thank you for everything. I love you and miss you Kaka. May you rest in eternal peace. Amen. less
Throughout my life, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit with Uncle Erich numerous times at family gatherings. With each visit, I could always count on 2 things: 1) a sincere greeting with a smile; 2) a bone crushing handshake.... moreThe Handshake:
Throughout my life, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit with Uncle Erich numerous times at family gatherings. With each visit, I could always count on 2 things: 1) a sincere greeting with a smile; 2) a bone crushing handshake.
This is the story about the “handshake”...
Early on in my life, as a boy who loved World Wrestling Federation, Bruce Lee and sports, I would attempt to give Uncle Erich a firm hand shake; but alas, he would crush my hand rather painfully (never intentionally).
After some time, I began to anticipate the greeting and I adapted. As the wise Bruce Lee had said “...be like water”, so instead I began to shake his hand with a grip that was more malleable. I discovered that it was less painful, but still hurt a little.
As I became a man, I stumbled upon a revelation...
Instead of a handshake, why not just give him a hug. Wonderfully, I discovered there was no pain...just love.
Whether it was through the way he lived his life OR my journey with the “handshake”, I believe Uncle Erich taught me a couple of valuable lessons:
1) Adapt to your situation/environment
2) Have compassion/love for others, it can be rewarding
3) Wisdom comes with time and adversity
You will be sorely missed. Rest In Peace Uncle Erich.
Eruch was a perfect gentleman. Always polite, loving and full of humor! He was a good friend to me. He was also a caring father in law to my daughter Amee, and grandpa to her son Adi.
I was fortunate to see Eruch several times, during past five years.... moreEruch was a perfect gentleman. Always polite, loving and full of humor! He was a good friend to me. He was also a caring father in law to my daughter Amee, and grandpa to her son Adi.
I was fortunate to see Eruch several times, during past five years. We enjoyed sharing our childhood memories, back in India. Each time, I came back with a clear impression of his love of life, and in spite of his physical limitations, always eager to meet people and learn more.
We will always remember him for his love of family and friends. Now he is in the loving care of God! We will all miss him, a lot. My condolences, especially to family, who will miss him the most. May Divine love, peace, and joy guide them!
In loving memory of Eruch, from his friend, Govind Patel. less
Eruch Kaka will always be in our thoughts and heart. Inspite of his handicap, he was always so positive and ever smiling, full of jokes and memorable experiences.
I will never forte the "Butterfly" table tennis bats he... moreThis is from Hormuz Parbhoo.
Eruch Kaka will always be in our thoughts and heart. Inspite of his handicap, he was always so positive and ever smiling, full of jokes and memorable experiences.
I will never forte the "Butterfly" table tennis bats he presented to my younger brother and me and I proudly state I became my school table tennis champion using that very bat. It was the year 1972-73. Thank you every so muck Kaka for all the wonderful gifts you used to get for us.
You had such beautiful handwriting it was a pleasure reading your letters and later on you became my inspiration as I tried to emulate your handwriting. Though you were a class apart, my handwriting was also admired by many.
And how can I forget my first shave, Kaka! You had got for me my first shaver Gillette Twin Edge Blade set. 😊
Thank you so much for everything Kaka. We will miss you a lot. May you rest in eternal peace. AMEN less
Whenever Omar and I would come back from a vacation or a work trip overseas, we'd call or visit Eruch and tell him about it. Invariably he would have stories of his own... usually he'd reveal he'd been to that destination himself! He would tell these... moreWhenever Omar and I would come back from a vacation or a work trip overseas, we'd call or visit Eruch and tell him about it. Invariably he would have stories of his own... usually he'd reveal he'd been to that destination himself! He would tell these stories without showing off but with excitement in reliving adventures from his past. He was the best kind of global citizen: curious, open-minded, excited to learn from what the world offered him.
I knew my father-in-law for too short of a time, but I learned so much from him about what is important in life, how to be humane and kind to others, how to embrace life no matter what. I will miss him, and I look forward to teaching his grandson, Adi, the values that he lived by. less
Erich was a truly joyful person and kept seeing beauty and hope even in the midst of his own suffering. He set an example for me with his grateful attitude, no matter what. I will always cherish him as the kind, wise, calm, composed yet fun loving... moreErich was a truly joyful person and kept seeing beauty and hope even in the midst of his own suffering. He set an example for me with his grateful attitude, no matter what. I will always cherish him as the kind, wise, calm, composed yet fun loving brother-in-law. I could have a conversation about any subject and he had something wise to share. I love you, Erich. Look out for each one of us from up above and intercede for our intentions to God. less
Luke HennigThis photo really makes me smile. As I was arriving at Omar and Amee’s wedding ceremony, I wondered whether I’d have much of a chance to visit with Omar’s dad during the day’s course of events. To my surprise, Eruch was one of the very first... moreThis photo really makes me smile. As I was arriving at Omar and Amee’s wedding ceremony, I wondered whether I’d have much of a chance to visit with Omar’s dad during the day’s course of events. To my surprise, Eruch was one of the very first people I saw, situated right at the entrance, greeting everyone with such enthusiasm and joy. What an amazing man!
Dad loved watching comedies from around the world. He saw humor as one of the best ways to connect with people from all walks of life. He would get an obscure film from Netflix, lie in bed, and be transfixed by the new world projected onto the screen. If... moreDad loved watching comedies from around the world. He saw humor as one of the best ways to connect with people from all walks of life. He would get an obscure film from Netflix, lie in bed, and be transfixed by the new world projected onto the screen. If the movie was good, we'd know it. It would start with a low rumble of the bed springs, then a more audible shaking of the headboard, and finally he'd let out a laughter that coursed through his entire body. I honestly believe that his ability to so deeply and fully experience joy is how he found peace in life. -Omar less
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