Ram Prakash Kanwal

Ram Prakash Kanwal July 4, 1924 - October 31, 2006 Ram P. Kanwal of State College, passed away on Oct. 31, 2006. He was born July 4th, 1924, in rural Pirabolurahman, Punjab India. He was the eldest of three children. His parents Ishardas, and Nandi Rewari, preceded him in death. He was raised by his beloved grandmother, Madaan, to whom he credits his success in life. In turn, he also helped raise his brother Hans, and sister Vanti. He is a graduate of Lahore University. He came to the United States to complete his studies in mathematics and graduated with a Ph.D. from Indiana University in 1956. Ram was Professor Emeritus at Penn State and had been a member of the faculty and resided in State College since 1959. He was a recognized expert in applied mathematics, author of eight books, and over one hundred scholarly publications. He was a visiting professor and speaker throughout the world. He was awarded a Fulbright Grant in 1988. He took great pleasure in working with his many doctoral candidates and post-doctoral fellows. He remained in touch with them and took great pride in their many and varied accomplishments. Ram and his wife Vimla enjoyed 52 years of marriage. Ram is survived by his wife, daughter Neeru; son Neeraj (Susan) and three grandchildren, Allison, Mallory, and Trevor Kanwal He was preceded in death by his brother, and sister. He has six nieces and nephews. Ram loved his family and had a special affinity with children, many of whom will remember him for always sharing chocolate treats. Ram was proud to have become an American citizen and enjoyed and appreciated his right to vote, and enthusiastically exercised it until he could no longer leave the house. He did not leave his roots far behind. He remained connected to India by regularly visiting family, friends, students and colleagues and was an active participant within the local Indian community. He felt privileged to have been part of the Penn State community. Private services have been held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Schlow Centre Regional Library, Memorial Contributions, 211 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801. Arrangements by Koch Funeral Home.