Dr. Gunasingham passes away

DEATH: The death occurred in Kent, England of Dr. V. Gunasingham the former Sri Lanka hockey goal keeper after a brief illness.

Dr. Gunasingham was a product of Jaffna Central and St. Henry’s College and after an illustrious school career entered the University and passed out as a doctor.

After representing many clubs he joined the Air Force as a medical officer and continuing with his pet sport hockey, Sri Lanka colours was not long in coming. Dr. Gunasingham played in an era when hockey was at its best in the country.

He was fearless between the posts and it was a treat to watch him performing and saving many a game for his clubs, the University, the Air Force and the country.

He was a victim of the 1983 riots which prompted him to leave for the UK and his departure was certainly Sri Lanka’s loss both in hockey and the noble profession - medicine.

He leaves his wife Devi, son Kumar and daughter Sriani who are both doctors.

This sad news was given to me by Dr. J.C. Duraisingham another hockey stalwart and mentor of the late Dr. V. Gunasingham. Duraisingham is also domiciled in England. His funeral takes place in Dartford, Kent. E.R.