Appreciations

The news of the death of my dear friend Kulasiri (fondly known as Bucki) came as a great shock. He was my classmate at Ananda College, roommate in Jayatilake Hall, and batchmate at the University of Ceylon, Peradeniya.

My friendship with Kulasiri goes back to 1954, when we were students at Ananda College, Colombo. We also studied together for our university entrance examination. This was an era graced by such distinguished principals as Mr. M. L. Methananda and Mr. S. R. Wijetilake, outstanding men and educationists who had a great impact on young minds.

Kulasiri was an all-rounder. He excelled academically, represented the school in hockey, and was president of the Buddhist brotherhood. At university, he passed all his exams effortlessly. A livewire and a popular personality, he earned the pet name Bucki from the campus community.

While I joined the private sector, Kulasiri went into the state sector as a management trainee with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. He worked his way up within the organisation, where his capabilities were recognised very early. He held a number of prestigious positions in the higher echelons of the port management. The jewel in his crown was his appointment as general manager, in which position he performed with distinction. His forte was human relations. He demonstrated his fine qualities – integrity, determination and courage combined with talent and capability – at every stage of his career.

While working, he continued to study, obtaining professional qualifications from the Institute of Transport Management. Kulasiri spent two years in Saudi Arabia, where he held a top management position in one of the country’s biggest ports. After retirement, he served as secretary-general of the Ceylon Association of Ships Agents.

As a boy Kulasiri was noted for his modesty and humility, qualities that were nurtured in the Buddhist culture and environment of Ananda College. These qualities were further enhanced by his charming and personable ways, winning over all those who met him and interacted with him.

Kulasiri was a true patriot, serving his motherland for most of his working life, when he could have easily taken up any number of career opportunities elsewhere.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his dear wife Clarice and beloved daughters Imalee and Teromi. May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana.

A humility that endeared him to all