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Vijay Varki Obituary
December 14, 1948 - September 11, 2024
Miami, Florida - It is with heavy hearts and joyful memories, we announce the passing of Vijay George Varki on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. As a caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Vijay left us peacefully at the age of 75 at his Miami residence with his family by his side.
Vijay was born into an Orthodox Christian family in Kerala, India. He completed his schooling at Bishop Cotton in Bangalore, India. Vijay Varki then obtained his Bachelor's in Architecture at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, India. He subsequently earned a master's degree in City Planning and Urban Design from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
After completing his education, he was appointed Director of the Miami Downtown Development Authority, where he worked as Principal Planner and Urban Designer. Recognizing his accomplishments, Vijay Varki was featured in Smithsonian magazine. Vijay Varki played a crucial role in developing several infrastructures on Brickell Avenue, Miami, High-rise financial centers, Miami Riverfront, Bayside Marketplace, Performing Arts Center, Miami Arena, and the construction of Metro-mover and Metrorail systems.
Vijay helped build a real estate and construction firm partnering with Armando Codina and former Governor Jeb Bush. As an exceptionally qualified professional, Vijay's contributions to the City of Miami and the State of Florida with integrity and honesty were unique and remarkable. Vijay also served as a trustee and Greater Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors member. Vijay's hobbies included stamp collection, reading, fishing, traveling, and enjoying friends and family company.
Vijay Varki is survived by his wife, renowned oncologist/hematologist, Dr. Jolly Varki, and children Dr. Vinod Varki, Dr. Vivek Varki, and Dr. Veena Varki, as well as siblings Ajit, Usha, and Shantha. His grandchildren are Arielle, Zachary, and Remy. His daughter-in-law's are Esther Varki and Dolly Mathew. He devoted 45 beautiful years to his wife, Jolly, building a life filled with laughter, love, and countless cherished moments. Together, Vijay and Jolly took many adventures and raised their remarkable children, who carry on his legacy of honesty and professionalism.
A visitation and viewing will be held at the Caballero Rivero Funeral Home in Westchester, Miami, Florida, on September 28 from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. Funeral and Prayer services will follow at the same location according to the rites of the Malankara Orthodox Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Vijay Varki
Al Arostegui
October 26, 2024
My condolences to the Vijay family. I met Vijay at one of my listings, and he asked me to see the family home on Bayshore Ln. Many years ago, we had several conversations about life and real estate. He was a fascinating man. Jolly's clothing collection was more than that of most stores. I hope there is peace and light in the family now. Warm regards, Al Arostegui
Marie Carmen Moran
October 21, 2024
Dr. Carli,
My heartfelt condolences for your loss.
Keeping you and your children in my prayers.
Carmen Moran
O.C. Ninan
October 18, 2024
My deepest condolences to Mrs Jolly Varki & the family,
I have known Vijay Varki, since 1957, when he was in Bishop Cotton Boys School, Bangalore, India. He was 3 years junior to me in school, and coincidentally our paths met again, when me and my wife moved to Miami in 1978, when I went to work for FPL. He and had been recently married then, and we used to frequently get together for various social and cultural events.
We will all miss Vijay a lot, and I pray that His departed soul would rest in Peace.
Best wishes to the family,
O.C. Ninan
Bishop Cotton Boys School, Class of 1961
Elbert L. Waters, MCP, LF. JD
September 29, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Varki Family on your loss. I met Vijay years ago in the Georgia Tech-Graduate City Planning and Architecture Program. We developed a friendship that lasted for years. When he moved to Miami to join Roy Kenzie at the Miami Downtown Development Authority, I subsequently joined the City of Miami Planning Department...we maintained our friendship to this day. Heavenly Peace and Blessings my friend!
Elbert L. Waters, MCP, LF, JD
E.L. Waters and Company, LLC
Jacob Varghese
September 29, 2024
Our heartfelt condolences and prayers!
Monichan, Suja, Jessica and Jason.
Leslie Cassel
September 27, 2024
Dear Jolly,
I was so very saddened to hear of Vijay´s death. My heart goes out to you and the family at this difficult time. I wish you comfort in your time of grief and the love of your beautiful family to get you through the difficult days ahead. With fond memories, Leslie Cassel
George Knox
September 27, 2024
Deepest condolences.
It was my pleasure to work closely with Vijay during the formative days of Miami's growth and development.
He was a key player.
Peace to his family.
Vijay was a good and decent man.
Lisbeth Bustin
September 26, 2024
Dr. Varki, so sorry to hear about your loss. Mike and I send our best wishes to you and family during this most difficult time.
Lisbeth Bustin
Dr. Michael + Lisbeth Bustin
September 26, 2024
Our deepest condolences
in this difficult time. Sincerely.
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