Benjamin D’Souza, a noted teacher and entrepreneur from Kerarai, Mangalore, passed away at the age of 75 on Saturday, July 27, 2024 after a short illness.
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Benjamin's educational journey began at St. Joachim's School, Kerarai and then St. Aloysius College, Mangalore. He completed his Master's in Political Science at Venkateswara College, Tirupati and his Bachelor's in Education at Government College, Mangalore. His teaching career began at Rosary Institution, Mangalore and he taught in various schools at Puttur and Milagres in Udupi.
Apart from his teaching, Benjamin also embarked on an entrepreneurial journey and served as Secretary of the Bus Owners Association and President of the Dakshina Kannada District Lions Club. He was also a member of the Land Tribunal and the Bajpe Mandal Panchayat.
Benjamin was a three-term member of the Diocesan Pastoral Council and served as Vice-Chairman of the Diocesan Council, demonstrating his dedication to serving the community. A talented singer and sports enthusiast, Benjamin actively encouraged youth participation in cultural and sporting events. He also hosted and emceed many events around Mangalore. Notably, he was the first life member of the Mangalore Pradesh Catholic Sabha.
Benjamin is survived by his wife Violet D'Souza (former associate professor at Govinda Das College, Surathkal), daughter Nirmala D'Souza (senior manager at HDFC Bank), sons Benjon D'Souza (principal engineer, currently residing in Mexico) and Benoy D'Souza, son-in-law Roshan Castelino (former manager at State Bank of India, Shivbagh) and granddaughter Rachel Peer.
He will always be cherished and remembered for his legacy of education, entrepreneurship and community service.
