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Sunil Dutta Obituary

January 18, 1964 - May 21, 2019 Sunil Dutta was born January 18, 1964 in Jaipur, India. He came in 1986 to the United States where he married Wesley Jean Ray, moved to Davis, CA, and took his PhD in Plant Biology in 1994. Later he joined the LAPD working there for 17 years, while authoring several books, translating poetry, finishing his memoir just before his death on May 21, 2019. Great friend to many and ardent supporter of dhrupad music, he enjoyed mountain walks with Wes and their dog. He is survived by his wife, his mother, Usha Datta, brother Kaushal and predeceased by his father VK Datta. He was grateful to the LAPD for many kindnesses during his long bout with cancer; and to City of Hope and Dr. Ravi Salgia for their excellent care. Donate to Lung Cancer Research, City of Hope, Dr. Ravi Salgia. Sunil quoted Ghalib,"The horse of life is galloping; we'll never know the stopping place.Our hands are not touching the reins, nor our feet the stirrups."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Jun. 25 to Jun. 30, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Sunil Dutta

Not sure what to say?





Eric

May 13, 2025

Thinking of Sunil and his wisdom, compassion, even-tempered demeanor. An honest man

Richelle

May 19, 2024

May his memory (and writing) be a blessing.

Chaplain Ron Carter

November 23, 2021

My duties as training officer were blessed with the addition of Recruit Officer Dutta to the LAPD and to my basic car. Sunil (or Sunny) as he let me call him, was an exceptional Officer and human being. His strong character, integrity and joy of life set him apart from so many others. He was a blessing in my life and during my time with the LAPD. One of his books of poetry sits in my bookcase with such special memories attached. A favorite for myself was at start of our patrol watch, Sunny asked me "So Officer Carter, will we be looking for some dastardly deed doers tonight?" I replied....yes we will be! Rest in Peace old friend. God bless. Chaplain Ron

Leslie Pesta Wagner, PhD

November 22, 2021

Dear Wesley,

Today I learned of your stepfather`s passing, and just yesterday I was telling a friend about the play that you and I wrote together. As I looked to send you condolences, to you and your mother, I see that you lost your husband just in 2019. I remember your beautiful dancing, your beautiful writing, and your beautiful acting. Sending you lots of love. Please be in touch as you are able.

Leslie

313-978-7792.

Jeff Pailet

September 9, 2019

I knew Sunil in passing while at the LAPD, and if our several short conversations, was truly impressed with his knowledge and compassion....he was a class act all the way. For the family, I am truly sorry for your loss. He will be missed.

Sunil and wife, Wes

Wes Dutta

July 15, 2019

Wes (Sunil's wife), Nanook, and Sunil

Wes Dutta

July 13, 2019

Daniel Neuman

July 5, 2019

Over many years Sunil was a great friend and had expert knowledge on such a wide ranging list of topics that was unequaled by any one I have known.
Daniel Neuman

Let the music play on!

Samuel Johnson

July 3, 2019

Sunil was a great classmate, a friend, a mentor and overall just a great person to know. He thought deeply, communicated skillfully but never took himself too seriously. I was inspired at his courage to take risks and challenge authority through his writings. We are all made better who took the time to know him, and should be encouraged to be champions of the truth through his example. I am convinced there was a higher calling on his life, and while we agreed to disagree on some points of faith he also sensed his role in this universe was bigger than himself. I enjoyed our long walks, sipping chai tea, eating Indian food, and talking about everything from faith to family to politics to life. He will be missed. I pray comfort for Wes and all those who grieve his loss. Farwell, great Pumpkin, Mahdi and friend.

Wes Dutta

July 3, 2019

June 30, 2019

My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you, and may our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and "make you firm". (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)

June 25, 2019

My condolences to your family for your loss. May God be your strength in this time of deep sorrow. (Psalms 18:6)

June 25, 2019

How precious our love ones are to us. They are even more precious to God. John 3:16

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