It is with deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of Felix Arulnayagam (Aras) Christopher, beloved husband, father, engineer, and community leader, who passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at the age of 83.
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Felix was deeply involved in cultural and community life. As an active member—and later President—of the Ilankai Tamil Sangam of America from 1999 to 2000, he worked tirelessly to preserve and celebrate Tamil heritage while fostering unity among the Ilankai Tamil diaspora in the United States. During his presidency, Felix led several significant initiatives, including efforts to organize a U.S. Congressional Human Rights Caucus hearing on Sri Lanka; a large-scale letter-writing campaign to the United States Congress; the creation of subcommittees to address challenges faced by Tamils in U.S. detention centers; and the establishment of a working relationship with Amnesty International. He also organized the first-ever Kalai Vila hosted by the Sangam. It should be duly noted that Kalai Vila has since become an annual event of the Ilankai Tamil Sangam, attracting participants and attendees from across the Tri-State area.
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He was the son of Arulanandam Christopher and Annama Francispillai Christopher. Born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, Felix’s life was marked by courage, generosity, and an unbreakable devotion to his family and community. His remarkable journey took him from Sri Lanka to the UK, then to Canada, and finally to New Jersey, USA. He later lived in Rochester, NY and his final years were in Annandale, VA. Along the way, Felix was instrumental in helping many family and friends to relocate from Sri Lanka to Canada and the US.
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Felix attended school in Colombo and graduated from St. Benedicts College. He later went to Technical College in Colombo. A gifted engineer, Felix began his professional career with Bruel and Kjaer, where he spent 10 years refining his expertise in sound and vibration analysis. Inspired by his passion and entrepreneurial spirit, he went on to establish West Caldwell Calibration Labs, a sound and vibration engineering company that grew into two branches with international reach, employing six dedicated professionals. His pursuit of excellence and integrity earned him a stellar reputation in his field and the respect of his peers and clients around the world.
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Felix married Ranee Christopher on March 6, 1974. Beyond his professional success, Felix was a devoted husband to his wife, Ranee Christopher, and a loving father to his two children, Dawn and Neil. His dedication and sacrifice for his family remain an enduring testament to the depth of his love.
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In 2010, Felix developed Parkinson’s Disease, but this didn’t slow him down. He continued to work until age 77. He was a devoted Grandpa who was there for all his grandkids’ births. His joy was ever present when he played with Averie, Madison and Aiden. He continued to travel and enjoy life, even traveling to Bali and Singapore last year.
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Felix’s life was one of resilience, service, and compassion. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and faith- values that will continue to inspire everyone who knew him.
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Felix A Christopher is preceded in death by Arulanandam Christopher, Annama Francispillai, Stanley E Christopher, Julia A Christopher. Felix A Christopher is survived by Ranee Christopher, Dawn Christopher, Neil Christopher, Lisa Christopher, Alex Christopher, Raji Gunaratnam, Jerry Christopher, Averie Christopher, Madison Christopher, Aiden Christopher.
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He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Ranee, his children Dawn and Neil, daughter in law Lisa and grandchildren Averie, Madison and Aiden, his extended family, and friends.
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May his soul rest in eternal peace in heaven. He will be missed forever.
