K.V. Rathnam passed away in his home last November.
K.V. Rathnam was a pillar of the South Asian community, the Andrews community, and the Southwestern Michigan community. K.V. was easygoing, funny, and friendly to everyone he came in contact with. He had a good sense of humor and could make people laugh. He always had a joke or two to tell anyone he met. He worked as a nurse for 37 years before retiring and pursuing his passion for the arts. He came from a village of artists, so art was always in his blood. He was a photographer, a painter, and a frame craftsman. He always gave back to the community whether it was his time or art supplies. He believed that children should have access to explore and experiment with art. He would often sponsor and provide frames for student art exhibitions at local middle and high schools. He was also known for donating art supplies to Andrews University. The Rathnam family would like to continue his legacy of giving.
K.V. was the President and one of the founding members of the Southwestern India Association (SMIA). He would often invite AU students to SMIA events to celebrate their culture and connect them to the community. He and his wife often hosted students from India at their home. He was especially supportive towards AU’s SASA (Southern Asian Student Association). He was involved with the Food Fair and helped design the Taj Mahal booth display that is often seen and used for SASA events.
K.V. was an active member of Pioneer Memorial Church. He had a heart for service and was very kid-oriented. He was part of Mission Madras 1995, a mission trip to India. He founded "Let's Get Involved," a non-profit organization that provided AIDS education and education to poor and underprivileged children in India. He often spoke of these children in India like they were his own.
K.V’s studio, Papachi International Custom Framing, is located at the Box Factory for the Arts in St. Joseph, Michigan. He was the first artist to have a studio at the Box Factory when it first opened. The Rathnam family has chosen to continue his legacy at the Box Factory. His granddaughter is taking over his studio and will continue in her grandfather’s footsteps.
K.V. Rathnam leaves behind a legacy that is an inspiration to current and future generations to come. His life was proof that you are never too old to pick up a skill and use that skill to help those around you. His generosity and passion for fostering creativity within his community has shown how service and art can harmoniously create an environment that encourages and supports its youth, and provides them the space to thrive. K.V.’s South Asian heritage was a strength to reach and uplift those within his community.
K.V. is survived by his wife, Sumathi and children, Venson and Vineesha, and granddaughter, Surekha who wish to continue his legacy of service and benevolence.
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