Vale Ranjini Manopavan

Greetings to the members and friends of the UCA Parish of Balkara

 It is with much sadness that I write to advise of the passing of Ranjini, wife of Rev Subramanium Manopavan, better known as Papa Mano across the Parish.  Ranjini had a fall in the driveway at home and suffered a severe head injury resulting in brain damage.  She was on life support in ICU but passed away the next day (yesterday, 27 th March, 2024).

Rev Mano and his family came from Queensland in 2003 as Papa Mano had accepted a Call within the Parish of Balkara with specific responsibility for the Tamil congregation.  Mano and Ranjini were the first occupants of the Macrina Street manse – arriving within the hour of Doug Tillotson and I taking possession.  I then joined the congregation with a traditional housewarming service later that night.  Those present were however very careful to not let the milk cascade over the saucepan and onto the brand new stove top.

Ranjini was active with the women and with cooking for special events.  I was rather partial to some of her sweet creations.   She supported Papa Mano in his work with the Tamil community and the wider community – including Carols in the Park and our Pancake Days at Oakleigh.  They also had Curry Runs where the congregation and wider parish placed orders for their specialities.  Another culinary night was the Kool Nights – hot curry fish soup.  Back home it was easy to catch the fish and pick the ingredients for the curry but when made in Melbourne, it was a more costly exercise and an opportunity to learn more about another culture.

Ranjini and Mano celebrated their 49th Wedding Anniversary last month.

At the end of his Placement, Rev Mano, Ranjini and family moved back to Queensland although we sometimes saw Papa Mano around Oakleigh and surrounds.

We extend our condolences to the Subramanium family at this sad time.  Please keep Papa Mano and his family in your prayers as they prepare to celebrate Ranjini’s life. We don’t know funeral arrangements, but it is expected to be in Brisbane. 

Thank you to the friends of the Parish who alerted us to this event.

Blessings