Prakash Kulkarni
Dr. Prakash Kulkarni, age 79 of Charlottesville, Virginia passed away peacefully on Saturday, 27th January 2024.
Prakash was born on 1st July 1944 to parents, Mr. Govind Rao Kulkarni and Mrs. Gayabai G Kulkarni in Hyderabad, India. After Prakash graduated from Vivek Vardhini College in 1964, he went on to higher studies in Osmania University. He worked as teaching staff in New Science College before, he moved to US in 1967 to continue his education in the field of Poultry Research for a PhD at Mississippi State University in 1970–1971.
In the year 1969 Prakash got married to Mahmooda Syed, in Hyderabad, India. Prakash and Mahmooda lived a very happy life for close to four decades and enjoyed spending their time with beloved pets, travelling and spending time with close family and friends.
His outstanding accomplishments in academics had fetched him a great career in both academia and industry and with his longest stint with Mead Johnson and executing in multiple positions including senior leadership roles. In January 2020, Prakash retired from Mead Johnson and spent his time in gardening, as a member of Boars' Head Sports club and meeting friends and family. His distinguished career, accomplishments, zest for life, generosity, resilience and adaptability will remain as a constant source of inspiration for his circle of family and friends.
Prakash was predeceased by parents and beloved wife.
He is survived by sister Jyoti Deshmukh and her family, Hrishikesh, Parithosh, Krupa, Netra, Arnav and Atharva. He never missed to wish their children on birthdays, who fondly called Prakash “Laptop Dada” meaning “Laptop Granddad” reminiscent of virtual interactions through video meetings. While, his physical absence will be gravely felt by his near and dear ones, he will be cherished in their hearts for his affection and memorable moments.
Prakash is also survived by his wife’s nephew, Zille Hasnain, as well as Zille’s wife, Marzia, and their children, Maaheen and Zeeshawn. Zille’s family visited from their home in Winston Salem, NC every year for Thanksgiving, where they also celebrated Maaheen’s birthday. Prakash always made his signature dishes and took Zille’s family to his favourite Afghan restaurant each year. He found joy in talking sports with Zeeshawn, chatting with Zille, cooking with Marzia, and telling stories of Maaheen’s childhood. He watched Maaheen and Zeeshawn grow up and considered them his grandchildren. Prakash held a deep affection for Zille, Marzia, and their children, and the void he has left in their hearts will always be filled by the warm memories of their time together.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriners Childrens’ an organization strongly felt and supported by Prakash.
