Srinivas R. Chari

Srinivas R. Chari, 75, of Green Oaks, IL, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on September 8, 2024. Born on November 4, 1948, in Madurai, India, Srinivas immigrated to the United States to pursue his Masters at Northwestern. Amrita joined him in Chicago in 1978 and they built their life together in the area ever since.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Srinivas was an accomplished engineer with an entrepreneurial spirit, contributing multiple patents to his industries professionally, and forever tinkering with home renovations and furniture designs personally. He loved his tools as much as the projects he did with them. He was interested in so many things, and pursued them all with great zeal: time with friends, travel, a great dinner, cooking your favorite dish, and music.

Srinivas had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life, and his warmth, humor, and wisdom touched everyone he met. He was known for his daily ritual of solving puzzles. With a sharp wit and an ever-curious mind, Srinivas also embraced the happenings of each decade with full enthusiasm—from sideburns and Led Zeppelin to twists and turns of 21st century elections. His love for both his native and adopted countries was profound, and he seamlessly represented the best of both Indian and American cultures.

Srinivas will be celebrated also for his boundless love for life, which was contagious to everyone around him. Whether tackling a design challenge, sharing a laugh, offering a helping hand, or reflecting on culture and current events, his presence brought comfort and joy to all who crossed his path. His family and wide circle of friends will forever remember his love for storytelling, his infectious laugh, his thoughtful advice, and his overflow of affection.

Srinivas is survived by his beloved wife, Amrita, and their children, Govind, Devi (Hari), and their grandchildren Raghav, Manav, and Kavya. He is also survived by his brother Sundar (Sandhya), and sister Sudha (Dileep), with whom he shared cherished bonds. 

A ceremony honoring Srinivas will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich, IL 60047.