RAVI SHANKAR

I was so sad to hear that Ravi had passed away. He was one of the friendliest people I have ever met. My deepest sympathy and warmest thoughts go out to his family. I had only known him for a year, but he was a true inspiration for me and my two tennis-loving kids. It was always a pleasure to come by the store to chat, and I am forever thankful for the tennis lessons you gave me. I will continue playing and try to improve the best I can. I will always remember you when I'm on the courts.

So sad to learn of Ravi's passing just now. He had restrung and regripped our rackets in January before our vacation and had seemed pretty much his same wonderful self. We had been looking forward to chatting with him again. Had first met him at Yates Field House some years ago. Our deep sympathies to his family; he will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

The sad news about Ravi reached me two weeks after we lost forever Ravis sincere and enthusiastic smile, a greeting that invariably boosted my spirit and brightened my day. Although Ravi imparted his expertise, he taught me far more than tennis. Ravi showed me how to enjoy the moment. Thank you for embellishing my appreciation for a life well lived. I miss you my friend.

We just read about Ravi's passing. Unbelievable and so sad. We would just stop in and say hello if we were nearby, even if we didn't need new strings... Ravi was always welcoming with a smile and good conversation. Dianne just bought a new Babolat from him and we were ready to schedule a few tune up lessons. What a shock and a loss. Our deepest sympathy to Ravi's family. Dianne and Buzz Seltzer, Washington DC

Ravi was such a genuinely kind and caring soul. I actually looked forward to breaking my strings so I could go chat with him at the shop, and he always went out of his way to help me. Thank you for everything Ravi, you will be sorely missed and remembered fondly.

So very sorry to hear of Ravi's passing. He was a great friend to the DC tennis community. I and many others will miss his kindness. Condolences to his family.

My sincerest condolences to Ravi's entire family. Ravi was a wonderful teacher and friend. He always had a smile and a kind word. Ravi was a gentle, gracious and kind soul. Ravi's many friends in the Washington tennis community will miss him.

This was a terrible shock for those of us who took for granted Ravi's gentle presence in the DC tennis community. I once mentioned to him that Dunlop stopped making the raquet I use and if he came across a used one to let me know. I never thought he would remember until one day he called to say he found a racquet for me. That was typical for Ravi. My deepest sympathies to Ravi's family. We in the tennis community are grieving with you.

Ravi, you were a great friend of the tennis community and a great friend to me. I will always remember your kind face and great spirit.