Celebrating a remarkable life

By Dinu Dehigama

Every year, the 20th of July brings with it cherished memories of family celebrations. It was always a day filled with laughter, gratitude and togetherness as we celebrated my father’s birthday. Although three years have passed since he left us, I still find myself hearing his voice and recalling his reassuring presence before reality reminds me that he is no longer with us.

Some people leave behind accolades, trophies or photographs. My father left something far more enduring. He left behind unwavering principles, immense courage, boundless kindness and a legacy that continues to guide our family every single day. Time may soften grief, but it can never diminish the love and admiration we have for him.

Christopher Jerome Abeyaratne, affectionately known to everyone as “Christie” and to us simply as “Thaththi”, lived a full and rewarding life with no regrets. Whatever challenges or disappointments came his way, he accepted them with remarkable grace and resilience. He feared no man, only the Almighty, and carried himself with quiet confidence, dignity and humility.

Born on 20th July 1940, he was the second eldest child of a military father and an artistic mother and grew up alongside five siblings. From his father he inherited courage, discipline and determination; from his mother, an appreciation for beauty, creativity and compassion. These qualities shaped the exceptional man he became.

Educated at St. Benedict’s College, Kotahena, he was a sportsman who excelled sports and studies and remained deeply grateful to his alma mater throughout his life. He often spoke with pride about the values his school had instilled in him, believing that education and sport played an equal role in shaping one’s character. Adventure was another part of his spirit. In his younger days he travelled extensively across Sri Lanka on his motorcycle with his closest friend, Mervyn, who was also my mother’s brother. Those journeys reflected his love for discovery, friendship and the simple joys of life.

His entrepreneurial journey began in the early 1960s as an apprentice and later a foreman at DIMO. While many would have been content with secure employment, my father dreamed of building something of his own. Armed with determination, experience and unwavering self-belief, he established Sparklit Motors (Pvt) Limited in 1964, beginning with a mechanical workshop and spare parts store.

Through hard work, perseverance and exceptional business acumen, Sparklit Motors grew to become one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering companies in hydraulics, hydraulic hoses and genuine spare parts, and was the only company at that time manufacturing hydraulic jacks. Every success was earned through honesty, discipline and dedication. He never believed in shortcuts and often reminded us that success achieved with integrity lasts a lifetime.

One of the principles he lived by was never to borrow beyond his means simply to create an appearance of success. He believed in growing steadily, within his capacity, and building a reputation that money alone could never buy. His word was his bond, and customers returned not only because of the quality of his products but because they trusted the man behind the business. In an era where integrity is often spoken about, he quietly lived it every day.

Despite his many accomplishments, his greatest pride was never his business. It was his family.

For over fifty years he shared an extraordinary marriage with my mother. Their relationship was built on unconditional love, mutual respect and unwavering support. Together they travelled the world, celebrated each other’s successes and faced life’s inevitable challenges hand in hand. He encouraged and supported my mother’s career and stood beside her through every chapter of their lives together. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, partnership and enduring love.

As a father, he gave my brother and me every opportunity to become the people we are today. He provided us with security, education and every comfort he could afford, but more importantly, he taught us values that no wealth could ever replace. He taught us to be humble, compassionate, patient and respectful. He never corrected us through fear or anger, but through gentle explanation and by setting the example himself. Looking back today, I realise that the greatest inheritance he left us was not material wealth, but the principles by which we continue to live our lives.

His love only grew deeper when he became a grandfather. His grandchildren were among the greatest joys of his life, and nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with them. Through his wisdom, gentle humour and calm guidance, he taught them confidence, resilience and the importance of finding happiness in life’s simplest moments. They will forever carry with them the lessons he so effortlessly shared.

To our extended family, In-laws, friends and colleagues, Thaththi was more than a relative or a businessman. He was a mentor, a counsellor and a trusted friend. Many turned to him for advice, knowing they would receive not only wisdom but genuine care and encouragement. He possessed a remarkable ability to bring people together, resolve differences and make everyone feel valued. His generosity extended quietly to those in need, never seeking recognition for the many lives he helped along the way.

His commitment to serving others found expression through numerous community initiatives. Organising medical clinics, promoting road safety and supporting charitable causes were simply part of who he was. Becoming the Charter President of the Lions Club of Kadawatha allowed him to serve his community in an even greater capacity, a role he embraced with enthusiasm, dedication and immense pride.

Equally close to his heart was his church. As the founder and first President of the Catholic Youth Council of St. Andrew Avellino Church, Kadawatha, he devoted countless hours to strengthening his parish community. Whether welcoming a new parish priest, organising the annual feast, Easter celebrations or any parish event, he was always among the first to volunteer his time, energy and leadership. His faith was not something he merely professed; it was something he lived every day through service, compassion and humility.

Those who knew my father will remember not only his leadership but also his warmth, wit and unmistakable charisma. He had an incredible sense of humour, a visionary outlook and an ability to make everyone around him feel at ease. He commanded respect without demanding it and led by example rather than authority. Strong yet compassionate, confident yet humble, he inspired countless people simply by being himself.

Three years may have passed since we said goodbye, but there are still moments when I instinctively wish I could seek his advice or share life’s milestones with him. His absence is deeply felt, yet his presence continues to live within every value he taught us, every decision we make and every act of kindness inspired by his example.

As we remember him on what would have been his birthday, we celebrate far more than the eighty-three years he lived. We celebrate a life defined by integrity, courage, generosity, faith and unconditional love. We celebrate an entrepreneur who inspired many, a husband who adored his wife, a father who shaped his children, a grandfather who cherished his family and a community leader who devoted his life to serving others.

Christopher Jerome Abeyaratne’s story did not end three years ago. His greatest achievement was never simply the successful business he built or the positions he held. It was the values he instilled in everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Happy Heavenly Birthday, Thaththi.

Your love, wisdom and example remain our greatest inheritance. Though you no longer walk beside us, your legacy continues to light our path every day, and for that, we remain forever grateful!