Dr. Keshava Murthy

Dr.  Keshava Murthy

June 30, 1936 – February 20, 2025

Keshava Murthy passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, February 20, 2025.  He was the devoted husband of Aswathalakshmi, loving father to Aparna, Shila (Andy) and Lalitha, and adored Thatha of Alexander Santiago, and Cassandra.  He was a revered doctor and a loyal friend.  Truly, one of the good guys.

Affectionately known as Prasanna to his family, he was born in the small South Indian village of Saragur to mother, Venkatalakshamma, and father, Venkateshaiah.  His 2 older brothers, Venkatasubbarao and Ramanna, preceded him in death.

Keshava wed Aswathalakshmi on May 6, 1963, in a marriage arranged by their respective families.  They had only had short glimpses of each other before their ceremony, and had never spoken until that day!  This May would have marked the 62nd anniversary of their beautiful union.

Keshava was an excellent student. In 1964, he left for the US to pursue his medical education, leaving his pregnant wife in the care of family.  He arrived here with $8.00 in his pocket, which he guarded with his life!  Aswatha joined him the following year, with Aparna in tow.

Over the next several years, they moved around a bit, ultimately settling in the south suburbs of Chicago, where they have lived in Flossmoor since 1971.  As the first generation of their families to live in the US, they led the way for many family members to follow suit, with their first stop in Flossmoor.  Keshava was considered the patriarch (with matriarch, Aswatha by his side).  The network of family and friends they built over the years is one that now transcends generations.

Dr. Murthy was a beloved Pediatrician for decades, serving multiple generations of children.  He continued to practice medicine until he was 80 years old.  No matter where he went, he ran into his patients, who were always thrilled to see him!   His retirement years were spent tending to his deep faith, as well as to his flourishing garden.  And always, to his beloved family.

He was kind, humble, quiet, and introspective—loved by everyone who knew him.  He will be so deeply missed by all those who were lucky enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to your favorite charity.  St. Jude's was one of Keshava's favorites, but he supported many worthy causes.

Service Information:

Thursday, February 27, 2025 John N. Maher Funeral Home 17101 71st Avenue Tinley Park, IL 60477

9:00am – 10:00am:  Viewing/Visitation 10:00am – 11:00am:  Eulogies, Dedications 11:00am – 11:45am:  Hindu Rites Ceremony

12:00pm – 1:00pm:  Private Cremation Ceremony at Cremation Society of Illinois (immediate family)

Services for Keshava Murthy will be streaming live. Please see the YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/live/kN6jd6NMUZk?si=F9xQbmYriTNErNUE