Sumithra Dwarakanathan

It is with deep sorrow and enduring love that we announce the passing of Mrs. Sumithra Dwarakanathan, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left us peacefully on August 2, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on September 14, 1951, in Chennai, India, Sumithra was the cherished daughter of Professor P.S. Manisundaram and Anusuya Manisundaram. Raised between Chennai and Trichy, she grew up in a home rooted in education, values, and compassion. Her life took a new direction when she married Dr. Dwarakanathan and moved to the United States, settling in Flossmoor, a suburb of Chicago, where she built a home filled with love, warmth, and boundless generosity.

Sumithra was the proud and devoted mother of Dr. Suri Dwarakanathan, an ophthalmologist whose life and accomplishments brought her immeasurable pride. She welcomed his wife, Dr. Mona Dwarakanathan, as a daughter, and delighted in the joy and energy of her beloved grandchildren, Nikhil and Aariya, who were truly the light of her life.

A pillar of strength and grace, Sumithra served as the matriarch of the Manisundaram family in the U.S., quietly and consistently supporting her siblings and extended family through acts of love, generosity, and steadfast presence. Her selflessness was legendary—she gave freely, without ever expecting anything in return. Whether it was a quiet word of encouragement, an open home, or unwavering support, Sumithra touched countless lives.

Always lending a helping hand, she was always eager to assist her friends in many ways. She had an incredible connection with many in the community and created a home where everyone felt welcome. Friends and family would come by anytime, and they were treated to incredible hospitality. Her cooking was exemplary, and guests would enjoy multiple delicious dishes whenever they would visit. She had a strong connection with spirituality and enjoyed spending time in prayer whether at home or in the temple.

She stood firmly beside Dr. Dwarakanathan, not only as a life partner, but as the heart of their shared journey. Her strength was the quiet force behind his busy medical practice, and she anchored every aspect of their personal, professional, and emotional life together. Family, to Sumithra, was everything—and she was everything to her family.

Her sense of humor, elegance, and humility made her beloved by all who knew her. She enjoyed all types of sports and music, spending hours enjoying both with her family, with great passion. She even found time to contribute to Dr. D’s golf game—yet another example of her unending generosity and quiet cheerleading from the sidelines.

Sumithra Dwarakanathan leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the many lives she shaped through kindness, strength, and unconditional love.

Family and friends are invited to join us on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, for a visitation from 9:00 AM until time of Puja Ceremony at 11:00 AM at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. A video recording of the Puja Ceremony is posted below. Cremation to follow.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400