The Passing of a Legend-Felix Abisheganaden

Another recent passing which thoroughly saddened me was that of Mr. Felix Abisheganaden.

I first met Mr. Felix during my first assignment with his PR firm, Prestige Communications back in October 2002. I didn't talk to him much then, but I was aware of this cheerful man who managed to elicit a smile or laugh from everyone he spoke to.

I was later asked to photograph his 80th birthday party held at Holiday Villa Subang in January 2003. 80?????? He looked at least 20 years younger, and I couldn't mask my surprise that this amiable smiling man would be 80 years old.

That night, he was the life of the party. His children, relatives & family came from near and far to pay homage to this charismatic man. I was amazed by the number of loved ones who traveled hundreds and thousands of miles to celebrate this joyous occasion. What I could not forget was the huge beam he had on his face for literally the whole night. Looking at him, I made a promise to myself to live my life fully, and hope that one day I too, will be surrounded by all the warmth and love I witnessed that night.

The following years, I met Mr. Felix on and off during Prestige's assignments, and each time we met, he always made a point to greet me and ask how I was. And always, there was a huge smile on his face.

I went to pay my respects when he passed on. Once more, I witnessed friends and relatives from all around the world surrounding him. Through the grief and sadness, however, there was still so much love for him in the room. And at that point I knew that wherever he was, Mr. Felix still had that huge beam on his face.

Mr. Felix, may you rest in peace.

You Will Be Missed, Tan Sri Murad

The nation lost two upstanding citizens recently. I've had the honour and pleasure of knowing both Tan Sri Murad bin Mohamad Noor & Mr. Felix Abisheganaden personally and professionally.

Tan Sri Murad, or "Uncle", as I know him, was a neighbour and father of my childhood friend, Maisurah. I've had the privilege of shooting Maisurah's wedding in 2003, and most recently, upon his request, his family portrait just before Aidilfitri 2007. We believe that he may have had a feeling that this would be the last official portrait of him & his family, and he had asked Maisurah to call me to schedule the photoshoot early so the photos could be ready before Hari Raya.

My wife, Ema, & I shot the family photos at Tan Sri Murad's residence in Taman Berjaya, Gombak, and throughout the session, we noticed the love and affection he had for his wife, daughter, son-in-law and especially so, his grandson. He was extremely patient with his grandson, and laughed at every single thing his grandson did. It was obvious that he clearly adored his grandson.

During lulls in the photo session, Tan Sri Murad & I talked. We talked about everything, and that is what I will remember & cherish always. The easy camaraderie, the abundant laughs and the warmth radiating from him and his family.

Tan Sri Murad, as I knew him, was a fine man. He was humble and approachable, yet he made such an impact in the lives of those who knew him.

To his family, Ema & I offer our deepest condolences, and we are just a phonecall away if you need us.

Uncle, you will be missed. Al-Fatihah.