paflyer
Final Approach
Send him to Detroit.
Garmin aviation engineers shot
- Thread starter 172andyou
- Start date
labbadabba
Pattern Altitude
Yep, I lived there for 8 years, I was more worried about being killed by a rogue bicyclist cutting through traffic.
mscard88
Touchdown! Greaser!
Wow. Great to see that.
Maybe inquire with a big company who might volunteer their jet Ted?
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Garmin have a corp jet?
Everskyward
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Everskyward
I know it's expensive to ship a casket (my aunt had to be shipped to San Francisco from the Netherlands where she died on vacation), however I doubt the fuel expenses for a business jet would be cheaper. There would also be the problem of how to get a casket on board, although you could do it with a stretcher and body bag. I've seen that done too.
mscard88
Touchdown! Greaser!
Good points. But if a company donated it wouldn't cost a thing, and the company could write it off possibly?
Ted
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iFlyNothing
And as a cyclist, I was mostly worried about taxis or busses running me over. Most of the crazies there were harmless.
Everskyward
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Everskyward
I agree that it would be a wonderful gesture, and his friends and family could go along.Good points. But if a company donated it wouldn't cost a thing, and the company could write it off possibly?
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
That GoFundMe is up to $330 and 9k donations. That's a lot of $20-$50 donations, a lot of them.
One count first degree murder, 2 counts attempted first degree murder.
Kansas does have the death penalty, lethal injection, and 10 on death row, but it isn't used. The last execution was in 1965, a double hanging. There were two double hangings that year: Hickock and Smith ("In Cold Blood"), and York and Latham (spree killers) a couple months later.
The paper this morning has some more details:
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134581204.html
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article134634354.html
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134542779.html
The shooter lived 4 block from my house. We walk right past it all the time:
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134644944.html
One count first degree murder, 2 counts attempted first degree murder.
Kansas does have the death penalty, lethal injection, and 10 on death row, but it isn't used. The last execution was in 1965, a double hanging. There were two double hangings that year: Hickock and Smith ("In Cold Blood"), and York and Latham (spree killers) a couple months later.
The paper this morning has some more details:
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134581204.html
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article134634354.html
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134542779.html
The shooter lived 4 block from my house. We walk right past it all the time:
http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article134644944.html
That's really awful. I'm so sorry Ted.
labbadabba
Pattern Altitude
If it's officially tried as a hate crime (or terrorism) it would be up to a federal prosecutor, no?
Murder is murder to me, if it was intentional I don't really care why. Murder is bad enough on it's own...
I hate stupid people and that goes x1000 for stupid people who apply their stupidity to harming others. Literally why we can't have nice things anymore.
I hate stupid people and that goes x1000 for stupid people who apply their stupidity to harming others. Literally why we can't have nice things anymore.
-1, fake news.
For those who might be interested in knowing what it's actually all about: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
Drove past Garmin about an hour ago. The TV news trucks are in their lot and their flags are at half staff.
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
Right now, best I know, he's been charged by Kansas. I haven't heard anything about Federal charges.
Maybe I'll finally get called for jury duty?
Zeldman
Touchdown! Greaser!
I was called for jury duty for a murder case and after a day of jury selection I was actually chosen.
On the first day of the trial, we were called in to a deliberation room where the bailiff gave us the ground rules. Then we waited, and waited, and waited, then some came in and handed us some Styrofoam containers holding a club sandwich and chips while another person handed out bottled water. We finished that wonderfully crappy meal, then was told to go home but not to talk to anyone about the case. Like we knew anything anyway. The next day we showed up at 8:30am as instructed, then waited, and waited and was not wanting another fantastically crappy meal.
Then, a few minutes before noon, the bailiff came and took us to the courtroom and sat us in the jury box. The judge came in and thanked us for our patience, explained how we were doing our civic duty, then explained that the person charged lawyer had plea bargained and the suspect excepted a sentencing for a lesser charge.
All this for 4 bucks a day jury pay.
On the first day of the trial, we were called in to a deliberation room where the bailiff gave us the ground rules. Then we waited, and waited, and waited, then some came in and handed us some Styrofoam containers holding a club sandwich and chips while another person handed out bottled water. We finished that wonderfully crappy meal, then was told to go home but not to talk to anyone about the case. Like we knew anything anyway. The next day we showed up at 8:30am as instructed, then waited, and waited and was not wanting another fantastically crappy meal.
Then, a few minutes before noon, the bailiff came and took us to the courtroom and sat us in the jury box. The judge came in and thanked us for our patience, explained how we were doing our civic duty, then explained that the person charged lawyer had plea bargained and the suspect excepted a sentencing for a lesser charge.
All this for 4 bucks a day jury pay.
denverpilot
Tied Down
Might not want what you wish for. The murder case I was called up for, the estimates of the court time and likely sequestration would have cost me tens of thousands of dollars. I was still willing, but during individual interviews I was honest and told the judge my wife and I had pre-paid tickets for an upcoming vacation and that I was still willing to cancel it to serve. I also had documentation that would show the fiscal hardship such a long trial would cause, but still willing to serve. Judge dismissed me. Dude was sentenced to death row months later.
You got lucky. Being mine mentioned above was a death penalty case, hundreds were called, and there was two days worth of multiple page questionnaires about the death penalty for the lawyers to use for jury selection, plus half a day of watching a video made by the judge about responsibilities and publicity and another few days waiting in side rooms to see if you'd be called to a personal interview, and then the interview day, which even with being not seated and dismissed, lasted all day for me.
I seriously don't know how working people can afford to serve on really long trials. The numbers were impossibly bad, and I could see someone without any savings literally having to tell the judge that serving could be a literally bankruptcy-inducing event for them and their family.
Which then leads me to believe that it's VERY unlikely if I ever had a long trial for something I was accused of, that there would truly be a "jury of my peers" in the box. No way. It'd be retirees and folks not earning enough that jury pay would be any particular hardship.
Certainly not any real working engineers, and if there was one, he or she would probably be quite mad the entire time thinking about trashing their personal finances for an entire year, and not paying much attention.
Zeldman
Touchdown! Greaser!
I have always thought that it is a bad deal to be judged by people that don't know how to get out of jury duty....
Z06tink72
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My z06 is faster than your C172
I worked with Sri during his years at Rockwell Collins Fly By Wire. Closely at times. All the things people are saying in the news is true. Ultra nice guy, easy to work with as they come, and pulled more than his share. Maybe two engineer's worth. Sometimes it makes me mad when people die and all of a sudden they are saints even though it wasn't really true. Respect for the dead I guess. But this guy really had all those traits most can only strive for.
This has been weighing on my mind heavily since I got the news. Sad and so ****ed off all at the same time.
This has been weighing on my mind heavily since I got the news. Sad and so ****ed off all at the same time.
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
The place reopened today. I haven't been by it yet.
It's a local bar & grill. Decent dinner specials and families tend to visit early in the evenings. Lots of TVs tuned to sports. No smoking indoors, so they have an enclosed patio as a smoking section. That's where it happened.
edit: About two or three store fronts over from the bar is a health food store. Was owned by a pilot buddy of mine and his wife. He was on the red board, I'm not sure about this one. He also owned a nice Archer, I safety piloted for him a couple times. He lived in the subdivision right behind those shops. A heart attack got him a little while ago. Pretty much local neighbors hang out at that place, and almost all are decent folks. But it only takes one.
It's a local bar & grill. Decent dinner specials and families tend to visit early in the evenings. Lots of TVs tuned to sports. No smoking indoors, so they have an enclosed patio as a smoking section. That's where it happened.
edit: About two or three store fronts over from the bar is a health food store. Was owned by a pilot buddy of mine and his wife. He was on the red board, I'm not sure about this one. He also owned a nice Archer, I safety piloted for him a couple times. He lived in the subdivision right behind those shops. A heart attack got him a little while ago. Pretty much local neighbors hang out at that place, and almost all are decent folks. But it only takes one.
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Ted
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iFlyNothing
I agree fully on both your points. It also annoys me when people are elevated to sainthood when they die and really weren't that way. But as you said, all the stories and statements people are making about Srinivas are true. On Thursday night my wife and I were talking about Srinivas (she had never met him) and I said I could honestly not think of a less deserving individual.
I'm sorry for our mutual loss.
denverpilot
Tied Down
Only the good die young, as the song says. It sucks.
Too many years involved in dispatch and public safety stuff in an ancillary way (communications) and therefore too many friends directly in that "biz", so you hear all the stories. It highlights the utter randomness of it.
It's usually auto accidents for most folks who go out at the "wrong time of life" but it can be stranger things. Murder is included, but honestly murder was always pretty low on the list in dispatch of things we expected to hear, which is what makes it more shocking for nearly everyone it touches. Murder truly usually is "for a reason" and not racial or commonly seen done to strangers. Murders amongst repeat domestic violence couples and murder/suicides of "successful" suburbanites who had some fiscal challenge were the commonly dispatched ones. Random murder is relatively rare.
The younger someone dies the more people it naturally touches, too. Just the way the numbers work.
Friends have been going out in odd ways as I get older:
Had a good friend die of falling on his face at home during an epileptic seizure. Jammed things into his brain that aren't supposed to go there. Wasn't found for a few days. 40s.
Another almost bit it from a strange medical condition where he had to have a significant part of his intestines removed an an ostomy done. With my wife being a wound care and ostomy nurse it's impressive what Docs can do these days in that regard. My grandparents would have been dead with that friend's condition. No doubt. 40s.
Aunt had a rare and fast form of cancer of a melanoma type usually that can be detected and stopped but wasn't. Dead in three months. 40s.
A cop friend I knew better than an acquaintance but not to "personal friend level", drank himself to death one weekend after he learned of a medical condition. 40s.
Former coworker slammed himself into a tree skiing, and was an expert level skier I knew pretty well this year. 40s.
A few friends have already cheated the C word via chemo or radiation... three in their 40s.
One engineering friend I knew through ham radio, massive coronary lifting sandbags into his pickup truck for traction in his garage. Not a sign of it in any medical visit ever. Mid-50s.
My dad. Massive brain stem stroke at 61 a month from his 62nd birthday.
I have a feeling the death toll in folks I know personally is going to start to rise significantly going into 50s and definitely 60s. It's normal but mildly unnerving. By the numbers, I'm not too surprised I haven't seen at least one of those be a murder, but do know a friend (he was late 30s at the time) who was sliced up pretty good by a mad boyfriend of an ex and the guy was charged with attempted murder and sentenced).
Ham radio buddy run off the road on his motorcycle by a road rager into a telephone pole. Dead instantly. Early 50s. Wife on the back of the bike barely survived it.
And then of course, there's a few dead pilots I knew... so far none closely and all we're doing "stupid" things. That record can't hold.
Too many years involved in dispatch and public safety stuff in an ancillary way (communications) and therefore too many friends directly in that "biz", so you hear all the stories. It highlights the utter randomness of it.
It's usually auto accidents for most folks who go out at the "wrong time of life" but it can be stranger things. Murder is included, but honestly murder was always pretty low on the list in dispatch of things we expected to hear, which is what makes it more shocking for nearly everyone it touches. Murder truly usually is "for a reason" and not racial or commonly seen done to strangers. Murders amongst repeat domestic violence couples and murder/suicides of "successful" suburbanites who had some fiscal challenge were the commonly dispatched ones. Random murder is relatively rare.
The younger someone dies the more people it naturally touches, too. Just the way the numbers work.
Friends have been going out in odd ways as I get older:
Had a good friend die of falling on his face at home during an epileptic seizure. Jammed things into his brain that aren't supposed to go there. Wasn't found for a few days. 40s.
Another almost bit it from a strange medical condition where he had to have a significant part of his intestines removed an an ostomy done. With my wife being a wound care and ostomy nurse it's impressive what Docs can do these days in that regard. My grandparents would have been dead with that friend's condition. No doubt. 40s.
Aunt had a rare and fast form of cancer of a melanoma type usually that can be detected and stopped but wasn't. Dead in three months. 40s.
A cop friend I knew better than an acquaintance but not to "personal friend level", drank himself to death one weekend after he learned of a medical condition. 40s.
Former coworker slammed himself into a tree skiing, and was an expert level skier I knew pretty well this year. 40s.
A few friends have already cheated the C word via chemo or radiation... three in their 40s.
One engineering friend I knew through ham radio, massive coronary lifting sandbags into his pickup truck for traction in his garage. Not a sign of it in any medical visit ever. Mid-50s.
My dad. Massive brain stem stroke at 61 a month from his 62nd birthday.
I have a feeling the death toll in folks I know personally is going to start to rise significantly going into 50s and definitely 60s. It's normal but mildly unnerving. By the numbers, I'm not too surprised I haven't seen at least one of those be a murder, but do know a friend (he was late 30s at the time) who was sliced up pretty good by a mad boyfriend of an ex and the guy was charged with attempted murder and sentenced).
Ham radio buddy run off the road on his motorcycle by a road rager into a telephone pole. Dead instantly. Early 50s. Wife on the back of the bike barely survived it.
And then of course, there's a few dead pilots I knew... so far none closely and all we're doing "stupid" things. That record can't hold.
Ted
The pilot formerly known as Twin Engine Ted
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iFlyNothing
@172andyou there was a separate GoFundMe started for Alok. If you wouldn't mind adding that to the original post as well, I'd appreciate it.
https://www.gofundme.com/alok-madasani-medical-relief-fund
The funds for Srinivas' widow and Ian have far exceeded their initial targets. It's very positive to see so much generosity.
https://www.gofundme.com/alok-madasani-medical-relief-fund
The funds for Srinivas' widow and Ian have far exceeded their initial targets. It's very positive to see so much generosity.
labbadabba
Pattern Altitude
The shooter was a pilot as well...
Austin's Pork Tenderloin sandwich pairs very well with a Boulevard KC Pils off the tap.
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
A BBQ buddy used to cook the briskets they used for their brisket sandwich specials.
---
The news was on site when they re-opened the other day. Seemed like a decent sized crowd, mostly there to pay their respects.
---
The news was on site when they re-opened the other day. Seemed like a decent sized crowd, mostly there to pay their respects.
NoHeat
Final Approach
I am very sorry Ted for your loss.
I understand that Srinivas Kuchibhotla used to work near here, in Cedar Rapids, for Rockwell Collins. I'm sure there must be people there who are grieving also.
I understand that Srinivas Kuchibhotla used to work near here, in Cedar Rapids, for Rockwell Collins. I'm sure there must be people there who are grieving also.
Ted
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iFlyNothing
Srinivas's and Alok's GoFundMe campaigns are now closed. Ian's is still open for those who want to contribute.
The total is over $1,000,000 raised. Incredible.
Yes. One of them posted in this thread. People are grieving around the world. I heard on the radio that donations came in from all 50 states and something on the order of 40 countries.
The total is over $1,000,000 raised. Incredible.
Yes. One of them posted in this thread. People are grieving around the world. I heard on the radio that donations came in from all 50 states and something on the order of 40 countries.
Gerhardt
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Gerhardt
I've said that for years.
I read a good article about the victims yesterday. According to the article they were enthusiastic and kind, good-natured people. The world could use more people like that.
I was talking to my wife about Garmin just a couple of weeks ago. I was wondering if the company was still doing well, hoping they had adapted to life after the standalone GPS market. From what I've read they're still healthy, and I was glad to see that.
mscard88
Touchdown! Greaser!
That is amazing. Just goes to show there are good folks in the world. Well done World!
Srinu's wife has issued a statement and it's damn near perfect.
This is my first official blog post on Facebook, and it is with a heavy heart that I am writing these words. On the dreadful night of Wednesday February 22nd 2017, I lost my husband — my soul mate — my friend and my confidante. He was a source of inspiration, a support system not just to me but to any and all he got to know. He always had a smile for every one, respected all especially his elders. We met in August 2006 through common friends then connected on an online portal called Orkut -- not a usual face to face introduction- and started liking each other instantly. He was so charming that I could not resist.
I am the baby of my house, being the youngest with two elder sisters. I grew up to be a carefree child. It was Srinivas who gave me the courage to pursue my dream of coming to the USA and studying, which made me the person I am today — an independent, self-sufficient and strong woman. I started working only recently, May 2016. He'd played a major role in me attaining a job, always encouraging and working with me though my disappointments, especially as I was starting back again after 4 years of a career break.
His passion was to constantly innovate in the the aviation industry. Here in America, he commenced is his career at Rockwell Collins, and he worked On Flight Control System especially on Primary Flight Control Computer that would change the way flights work with improved performances. He dedicated his life to this development. There were days he used to come home to have only dinner and leave for work again - only return around 2 or 3 in the morning. He was very happy at Rockwell and liked living in a small town like Cedar Rapids, Iowa. But we decided to move from there to a bigger city so that I could get a job and be able to pursue my dreams, as he was able to do for himself. Kansas was our instant choice, and we moved here with a lot of dreams. We built our dream home, which he painted, and installed the garage door. Doing any kind of work on his home gave him immense joy. This was the home that he had built to -- for us and any kids we would have- was our first step to starting our family. It's so unfortunate that this dream of ours is now shattered. All of this, because of one person, who did not think of the impact his deed would have on the victim's family. When police came to our house that night and gave me the news of my husband's life being taken away by a random shooter, I could not believe their words, it was so surreal. I asked them repeatedly, "Are you sure?", "Are you telling the truth?", "Did you see the man you are talking about?", "Can you show me a picture to identify?", "Is the man that you are talking about 6' 2''?" They were just nodding their heads saying yes. With no family here in Kansas and his brother in Dallas, my immediate reaction was to call his brother. When I called him to say what the police had just told me, he thought I was joking.
My friends were by my side and did not leave me for even a second. Friends drove from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Minnesota, and St. Louis. Many flew from Denver, California, and New Jersey to say a final goodbye to their beloved and dearest friend, who was always only kind to them. Both his aunts from NJ and NY came to take care of me and him.
He would have turned 33 on March 9th, and we were planning to fly to NJ for his cousin's engagement. He was excited and eagerly waiting for the event, and we had plans to shop this past weekend for the trip. Things turned out differently, I was on my way to India with him in a coffin.
We got married after 6 years of close friendship, and it was not an easy process. He had to convince not only his parents but also mine. He met my family multiple times to convince them that he was capable and suitable for their beloved daughter. He answered all their questions with a smile on his face. His charm was such that he instantly became one of the members of my family and became their favorite son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle. It is still unbelievable that he is not here.
He found happiness in simple things. One of his most favorite pastimes was watching TV, which he watched with so much passion and intensity. His favorite shows lately were Person of Interest and Indian Idol. He was a family man and liked to eat home-cooked meals. Every night, I used to pack lunch for him and myself. He used to hate packing for himself and used to give me the funniest explanations for not doing so. He would say, "If I pack my lunch, I would know what I would eat later on. But if you pack it, I will have that surprise element." If anyone gave him a heartful meal, he would bless that person by saying, "Anna datha sukkhi bhava" (a saying in Telugu that translates to, "You made my heart happy with the food, so may God bless you"). This was something many of his friends picked up from him.
He really enjoyed Arnab Goswami during his lunch at work and was eagerly waiting for him to come on.
He loved kids and was an instant favorite of any kid. We were planning to expand our own family and had had a doctor's appointment just a few weeks ago. One of the last thoughts that he shared with me were "Nani (his nickname for me), we need to save money if we have to end up going for in-vitro to conceive." I am writing this as it sinks in to me that this dream of ours is now shattered. I really wish we had a child of our own in whom I could at least see Srinivas and make him like Srinu.
He always cared about what was happening around him, and he was very proud of Mr. Narendra Modi ji and India. He was sure that India had finally found the leader that could make India shine. This might seem unreal, but I know because there wasn't a day that ended without him watching the news or reading multiple newspapers before going to bed.
Srinu was the epitome of optimism. That was his motto. I remember asking him why he'd chosen to pursue digital signal processing and electrical engineering for his master's degree. He said, "I scored less in that subject in Bachelors of Technology and wanted to explore why I received a lower score." That was his optimism.
He was really happy to see Sushma Swaraj as the external affairs minister — such a brave and courageous woman, and how quick she reacted for those in need. He must have never thought that he would be one among them one day. But knowing my Srinu, he would have felt very proud of you for helping us and his family in crisis. Thanks again, Madam. I wish I could meet both you and Mr. Modi ji and share his joy posthumously.
He was always worried about immigration and its laws. He followed them very closely over the internet. There were days when he used to talk about how it's been quite a few years since we applied for our permanent residency card, and he didn't know how much longer we have to wait for it. He used to say having one would give him the chance to explore even more his passion for the aviation industry. He very closely monitored the H4 EAD rule and did whatever he could do in his capacity for the rule to be passed - not just for me, but for every woman and for those who deserve a career and a chance to fulfill their dreams. He was filled with joy when the rule passed and was so happy that he said, "Nani, now you can work. It is not that we need the money, but it's so that you can follow your own dreams and make your parents proud."
This is my first official blog post on Facebook, and it is with a heavy heart that I am writing these words. On the dreadful night of Wednesday February 22nd 2017, I lost my husband — my soul mate — my friend and my confidante. He was a source of inspiration, a support system not just to me but to any and all he got to know. He always had a smile for every one, respected all especially his elders. We met in August 2006 through common friends then connected on an online portal called Orkut -- not a usual face to face introduction- and started liking each other instantly. He was so charming that I could not resist.
I am the baby of my house, being the youngest with two elder sisters. I grew up to be a carefree child. It was Srinivas who gave me the courage to pursue my dream of coming to the USA and studying, which made me the person I am today — an independent, self-sufficient and strong woman. I started working only recently, May 2016. He'd played a major role in me attaining a job, always encouraging and working with me though my disappointments, especially as I was starting back again after 4 years of a career break.
His passion was to constantly innovate in the the aviation industry. Here in America, he commenced is his career at Rockwell Collins, and he worked On Flight Control System especially on Primary Flight Control Computer that would change the way flights work with improved performances. He dedicated his life to this development. There were days he used to come home to have only dinner and leave for work again - only return around 2 or 3 in the morning. He was very happy at Rockwell and liked living in a small town like Cedar Rapids, Iowa. But we decided to move from there to a bigger city so that I could get a job and be able to pursue my dreams, as he was able to do for himself. Kansas was our instant choice, and we moved here with a lot of dreams. We built our dream home, which he painted, and installed the garage door. Doing any kind of work on his home gave him immense joy. This was the home that he had built to -- for us and any kids we would have- was our first step to starting our family. It's so unfortunate that this dream of ours is now shattered. All of this, because of one person, who did not think of the impact his deed would have on the victim's family. When police came to our house that night and gave me the news of my husband's life being taken away by a random shooter, I could not believe their words, it was so surreal. I asked them repeatedly, "Are you sure?", "Are you telling the truth?", "Did you see the man you are talking about?", "Can you show me a picture to identify?", "Is the man that you are talking about 6' 2''?" They were just nodding their heads saying yes. With no family here in Kansas and his brother in Dallas, my immediate reaction was to call his brother. When I called him to say what the police had just told me, he thought I was joking.
My friends were by my side and did not leave me for even a second. Friends drove from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Minnesota, and St. Louis. Many flew from Denver, California, and New Jersey to say a final goodbye to their beloved and dearest friend, who was always only kind to them. Both his aunts from NJ and NY came to take care of me and him.
He would have turned 33 on March 9th, and we were planning to fly to NJ for his cousin's engagement. He was excited and eagerly waiting for the event, and we had plans to shop this past weekend for the trip. Things turned out differently, I was on my way to India with him in a coffin.
We got married after 6 years of close friendship, and it was not an easy process. He had to convince not only his parents but also mine. He met my family multiple times to convince them that he was capable and suitable for their beloved daughter. He answered all their questions with a smile on his face. His charm was such that he instantly became one of the members of my family and became their favorite son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle. It is still unbelievable that he is not here.
He found happiness in simple things. One of his most favorite pastimes was watching TV, which he watched with so much passion and intensity. His favorite shows lately were Person of Interest and Indian Idol. He was a family man and liked to eat home-cooked meals. Every night, I used to pack lunch for him and myself. He used to hate packing for himself and used to give me the funniest explanations for not doing so. He would say, "If I pack my lunch, I would know what I would eat later on. But if you pack it, I will have that surprise element." If anyone gave him a heartful meal, he would bless that person by saying, "Anna datha sukkhi bhava" (a saying in Telugu that translates to, "You made my heart happy with the food, so may God bless you"). This was something many of his friends picked up from him.
He really enjoyed Arnab Goswami during his lunch at work and was eagerly waiting for him to come on.
He loved kids and was an instant favorite of any kid. We were planning to expand our own family and had had a doctor's appointment just a few weeks ago. One of the last thoughts that he shared with me were "Nani (his nickname for me), we need to save money if we have to end up going for in-vitro to conceive." I am writing this as it sinks in to me that this dream of ours is now shattered. I really wish we had a child of our own in whom I could at least see Srinivas and make him like Srinu.
He always cared about what was happening around him, and he was very proud of Mr. Narendra Modi ji and India. He was sure that India had finally found the leader that could make India shine. This might seem unreal, but I know because there wasn't a day that ended without him watching the news or reading multiple newspapers before going to bed.
Srinu was the epitome of optimism. That was his motto. I remember asking him why he'd chosen to pursue digital signal processing and electrical engineering for his master's degree. He said, "I scored less in that subject in Bachelors of Technology and wanted to explore why I received a lower score." That was his optimism.
He was really happy to see Sushma Swaraj as the external affairs minister — such a brave and courageous woman, and how quick she reacted for those in need. He must have never thought that he would be one among them one day. But knowing my Srinu, he would have felt very proud of you for helping us and his family in crisis. Thanks again, Madam. I wish I could meet both you and Mr. Modi ji and share his joy posthumously.
He was always worried about immigration and its laws. He followed them very closely over the internet. There were days when he used to talk about how it's been quite a few years since we applied for our permanent residency card, and he didn't know how much longer we have to wait for it. He used to say having one would give him the chance to explore even more his passion for the aviation industry. He very closely monitored the H4 EAD rule and did whatever he could do in his capacity for the rule to be passed - not just for me, but for every woman and for those who deserve a career and a chance to fulfill their dreams. He was filled with joy when the rule passed and was so happy that he said, "Nani, now you can work. It is not that we need the money, but it's so that you can follow your own dreams and make your parents proud."
His father had a very low-income job, and Srinivas was the middle son of three sons. There wasn't a day that went by without him mentioning how hard his father worked to make his sons the way they are today, and that he would have to do a lot for his parents. I'm sure, Srinu, that you made them proud, and I wish you didn't have to leave us. He was a loving brother to both his siblings, especially the younger one, whom he treated like his own son more than a brother. He was elated when the youngest got married back in November 2015.
From what I know or heard from his parents, himself, and his brothers, all three brothers were very naughty. I remember him saying that when the three started to laugh, they would be panicked that in next 5 minutes there would be a fight and something would be broken in the house. As their father was very strict and always wanted them to focus on education, he would always be pushing them to study and many a time would have to run after them to make them sit for their studies. The youngest and eldest always managed to escape first, and Srinu, would always stay behind and get the scolding of all three brothers.
As I mentioned in the press meet, whenever there was an incident involving someone dying, both of us got worried, and I many times spoke my heart to him. We came here to achieve and fulfill our dreams. He always assured me that if we think good, be good, then good will happen to us and that we will be safe. He used to hug me tightly and sleep giving me this assurance. Srinu, now that I have gotten used to that warm hug, I might not be able to sleep. That was the only place in the world that I could sleep without any worries or tensions.
I was able to see random acts of kindness at the Kansas City airport when people recognized me and hugged me. I met a dermatologist who said I changed the purpose of her life. Maybe that was the first win during this fight to spread to love.
I think I can just keep writing and finish a book, but that still isn't enough to talk about you or the love that you spread around. I'm still trying to digest the fact that in one evening I became a widow from a wife.
Srinu, my love, I don't know how I'll be able to fill the void I now have created in my life, but I promise you I'll never let you down. It is so funny that you were my editor for any important email I had written, but now, for the first time, I am having to do it myself.
I LOVE YOU, AND YOU ARE ALWAYS GOING TO BE MINE.
I wish that you had come home when I asked you to have tea. I have many unanswered questions, and I wish you would answer them, but the only way I could get those answers now is by coming to you and your new home on the other side. I don't know when that day will come.
My sincere thanks to each one of those who are helping us cope with this loss. I thank, Garmin and its employees, for conducting the vigil and allowing me to speak and share my Srinivas with you all.
Thanks to Mr. Cliff Pemble, the CEO of Garmin, for speaking such kind words about my husband and his contribution to Garmin. I can't express my happiness that you came to my home to pay your last respects to him, held my hand, and went all around the house hearing his stories. This shows me how important he was to the company. Also, Didier, Dave, Phil, Patrick, Garmin Legal Team, HR Team, and to all those sitting in the auditorium during the vigil, thanks a lot for your support.
Thanks to Mr. Frank, CEO of Intouch Solutions, for assuring me that I can take however long and still come back and continue my job. Thanks for coming home and delivering the message personally. Thanks to Katema, David, and every employee of Intouch Solutions, who came to console me and gave me the same assurance.
Thanks to the Mayor for your kind words, giving us the assurance, and making a personal visit to the house. Also, thank you for making sure we received the privacy we asked for. I was told by Congressmen Yoder and Senator Moran that you were trying to reach out to me. Thanks a lot for your concern and for working on my immigration status. This is my Srinu's dream, and it is the least I could do for my Srinivas - fulfill his dreams through my eyes - and it is for this I have to come back to the USA.
Thanks to the Detectives and District Attorney Steve for working hard on this case and finding the culprit. I know you will make sure justice is served.
Thanks to the medical team that worked on Srinu and tried hard to revive him back. I truly wish that your efforts had succeeded and he was with us today.
I do not have words to express my gratitude towards Mr. Ian Grillot for what you have done. Thanks for having the courage and trying in whatever way possible to save my husband. When I am back in Olathe, I would like to meet you personally. You and your act of kindness will help me survive and still have the faith in love and spreading love and not hate. I hope you get well soon.
Thanks to all those communities that have come forward and have been praying for Srinivas's soul and his family's well being.
Thanks to the funeral home for being so considerate and obliging to our request of sending him to his house, the house that he had built with so many dreams. I have the good luck charm that you gave me. Thank you.
Thanks to the media and press for agreeing to not disturb us and for respecting our privacy. Thanks again, and keep up your good work. A special mention to Ms. Rajini Vaidyanathan (BBC correspondent).
Thanks to people like Satya Nadella and Kamala Harris for supporting through your tweets. It means a lot to us. My sincere request to Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, and many others to keep advocating your support for human rights. We need to spread love and stop this hatred. Today, it's an employee of Garmin, tomorrow, it could be one of your employees, and I don't want anyone to go through what my family and household went through.
Thanks to the Consular General Officers who expedited the process.
Thanks to the government of Telangana for giving us the assurance that his remains will be taken to his house without any problem, and we request the media in India to be considerate of our privacy.
Mr. Amitabh Bachchan sir, there wasn't a party that ended without us dancing to your songs. Our friends used to fondly call us Amitabh and Jaya because my husband is 6'2'' and I am 5 feet. My husband used to say that our kids should be as tall as Abhishek and Shweta. Shah Rukh Khan sir, he was a huge fan of yours, and he made sure we watched your latest movie, Raees. I need all your support to pass this strong message of spreading love and giving confidence to every foreign national that their fight will be listened to.
I will now ask same question — On what basis we decide a person is good or bad, and of course, it's not based on the color of your skin. So what decides that? Many times, these issues are talked about for a few weeks and people tend to forget about them afterward, but the fight must go on towards eradicating hatred from the minds of people. So what is the government going to do to stop hate crime?
Lastly, to answer the question that is in every immigrant's mind, DO WE BELONG HERE?
Is this the same country we dreamed of and is it still secure to raise our families and children here?
-Sunayana Dumala
From what I know or heard from his parents, himself, and his brothers, all three brothers were very naughty. I remember him saying that when the three started to laugh, they would be panicked that in next 5 minutes there would be a fight and something would be broken in the house. As their father was very strict and always wanted them to focus on education, he would always be pushing them to study and many a time would have to run after them to make them sit for their studies. The youngest and eldest always managed to escape first, and Srinu, would always stay behind and get the scolding of all three brothers.
As I mentioned in the press meet, whenever there was an incident involving someone dying, both of us got worried, and I many times spoke my heart to him. We came here to achieve and fulfill our dreams. He always assured me that if we think good, be good, then good will happen to us and that we will be safe. He used to hug me tightly and sleep giving me this assurance. Srinu, now that I have gotten used to that warm hug, I might not be able to sleep. That was the only place in the world that I could sleep without any worries or tensions.
I was able to see random acts of kindness at the Kansas City airport when people recognized me and hugged me. I met a dermatologist who said I changed the purpose of her life. Maybe that was the first win during this fight to spread to love.
I think I can just keep writing and finish a book, but that still isn't enough to talk about you or the love that you spread around. I'm still trying to digest the fact that in one evening I became a widow from a wife.
Srinu, my love, I don't know how I'll be able to fill the void I now have created in my life, but I promise you I'll never let you down. It is so funny that you were my editor for any important email I had written, but now, for the first time, I am having to do it myself.
I LOVE YOU, AND YOU ARE ALWAYS GOING TO BE MINE.
I wish that you had come home when I asked you to have tea. I have many unanswered questions, and I wish you would answer them, but the only way I could get those answers now is by coming to you and your new home on the other side. I don't know when that day will come.
My sincere thanks to each one of those who are helping us cope with this loss. I thank, Garmin and its employees, for conducting the vigil and allowing me to speak and share my Srinivas with you all.
Thanks to Mr. Cliff Pemble, the CEO of Garmin, for speaking such kind words about my husband and his contribution to Garmin. I can't express my happiness that you came to my home to pay your last respects to him, held my hand, and went all around the house hearing his stories. This shows me how important he was to the company. Also, Didier, Dave, Phil, Patrick, Garmin Legal Team, HR Team, and to all those sitting in the auditorium during the vigil, thanks a lot for your support.
Thanks to Mr. Frank, CEO of Intouch Solutions, for assuring me that I can take however long and still come back and continue my job. Thanks for coming home and delivering the message personally. Thanks to Katema, David, and every employee of Intouch Solutions, who came to console me and gave me the same assurance.
Thanks to the Mayor for your kind words, giving us the assurance, and making a personal visit to the house. Also, thank you for making sure we received the privacy we asked for. I was told by Congressmen Yoder and Senator Moran that you were trying to reach out to me. Thanks a lot for your concern and for working on my immigration status. This is my Srinu's dream, and it is the least I could do for my Srinivas - fulfill his dreams through my eyes - and it is for this I have to come back to the USA.
Thanks to the Detectives and District Attorney Steve for working hard on this case and finding the culprit. I know you will make sure justice is served.
Thanks to the medical team that worked on Srinu and tried hard to revive him back. I truly wish that your efforts had succeeded and he was with us today.
I do not have words to express my gratitude towards Mr. Ian Grillot for what you have done. Thanks for having the courage and trying in whatever way possible to save my husband. When I am back in Olathe, I would like to meet you personally. You and your act of kindness will help me survive and still have the faith in love and spreading love and not hate. I hope you get well soon.
Thanks to all those communities that have come forward and have been praying for Srinivas's soul and his family's well being.
Thanks to the funeral home for being so considerate and obliging to our request of sending him to his house, the house that he had built with so many dreams. I have the good luck charm that you gave me. Thank you.
Thanks to the media and press for agreeing to not disturb us and for respecting our privacy. Thanks again, and keep up your good work. A special mention to Ms. Rajini Vaidyanathan (BBC correspondent).
Thanks to people like Satya Nadella and Kamala Harris for supporting through your tweets. It means a lot to us. My sincere request to Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, and many others to keep advocating your support for human rights. We need to spread love and stop this hatred. Today, it's an employee of Garmin, tomorrow, it could be one of your employees, and I don't want anyone to go through what my family and household went through.
Thanks to the Consular General Officers who expedited the process.
Thanks to the government of Telangana for giving us the assurance that his remains will be taken to his house without any problem, and we request the media in India to be considerate of our privacy.
Mr. Amitabh Bachchan sir, there wasn't a party that ended without us dancing to your songs. Our friends used to fondly call us Amitabh and Jaya because my husband is 6'2'' and I am 5 feet. My husband used to say that our kids should be as tall as Abhishek and Shweta. Shah Rukh Khan sir, he was a huge fan of yours, and he made sure we watched your latest movie, Raees. I need all your support to pass this strong message of spreading love and giving confidence to every foreign national that their fight will be listened to.
I will now ask same question — On what basis we decide a person is good or bad, and of course, it's not based on the color of your skin. So what decides that? Many times, these issues are talked about for a few weeks and people tend to forget about them afterward, but the fight must go on towards eradicating hatred from the minds of people. So what is the government going to do to stop hate crime?
Lastly, to answer the question that is in every immigrant's mind, DO WE BELONG HERE?
Is this the same country we dreamed of and is it still secure to raise our families and children here?
-Sunayana Dumala
NoHeat
Final Approach
Such strength she must have.
Her life was suddenly shattered. Many millions of people in her country are transfixed by her tragedy. And amidst all that turmoil, she has the composure to write a thoughtful public statement, telling her story and his so well, with the courage to make us confront a deep and challenging question about our own country.
Her life was suddenly shattered. Many millions of people in her country are transfixed by her tragedy. And amidst all that turmoil, she has the composure to write a thoughtful public statement, telling her story and his so well, with the courage to make us confront a deep and challenging question about our own country.
What a moving letter.
For anyone not familiar with the nomenclature, it sounds like Mr Kuchibotla was stuck in an immigration loop that many indian professionals find themselves in. He was on a H1b visa but as US immigration law only allows a set quota from each country to receive greencards, he was stuck in a holding pattern. Usually, a H1b visa is good for a maximum of 6 years but once someone has received sponsorship from his employer to adjust status to permanent resident, the visa can be extended on a year by year basis. His wife is now in a bind. Her H4-EAD status is dependent on his H1b visa, with him gone she can only hope for someone at the immigration service to make things happen.
Any other comments I could make would be political in nature and misplaced in this thread.
For anyone not familiar with the nomenclature, it sounds like Mr Kuchibotla was stuck in an immigration loop that many indian professionals find themselves in. He was on a H1b visa but as US immigration law only allows a set quota from each country to receive greencards, he was stuck in a holding pattern. Usually, a H1b visa is good for a maximum of 6 years but once someone has received sponsorship from his employer to adjust status to permanent resident, the visa can be extended on a year by year basis. His wife is now in a bind. Her H4-EAD status is dependent on his H1b visa, with him gone she can only hope for someone at the immigration service to make things happen.
Any other comments I could make would be political in nature and misplaced in this thread.
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Zeldman
Touchdown! Greaser!
Is there a person here that can finish this without tears in their eyes.....?
RV10flyer
Pattern Altitude
Not many, I am sure of.
Humans are darn dangerous, and possesed of a complex psychology - emotion and logic do a weird dance in our heads, and our capacity for self examination waxes and wanes. . ."safety" isn't a real option when interacting with other humans. We have a lot of survival traits that can get real ugly, real quick, especially when the wrong chunk of our mind is in charge. And so some pointless act snatches two valuable folks. . .
Tarheelpilot
Final Approach
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Tarheelpilot
Yes.
Shepherd
Final Approach
Sudden, senseless death is always hard to bear. I wish I could tell you things will be OK. My personal opinion is that only a total sociopath is ever "OK" after something like this.
Your life will change, and you will adapt. But you don't ever forget. Sometimes you can go an entire week without thinking about it.
Sometimes.
But you don't ever forget.
When I mustered out of the USAF in 1973, I was almost 25 years old. I had more dead friends, KIA, than I had living friends.
Each morning, when I wake up, I dedicate the day to one of those friends who never got to be old enough to retire.
Your life will change, and you will adapt. But you don't ever forget. Sometimes you can go an entire week without thinking about it.
Sometimes.
But you don't ever forget.
When I mustered out of the USAF in 1973, I was almost 25 years old. I had more dead friends, KIA, than I had living friends.
Each morning, when I wake up, I dedicate the day to one of those friends who never got to be old enough to retire.
Matthew
Touchdown! Greaser!
I still think about the friends I've lost over the years. Some of them have been gone 30 years now, so they will always be young in my memory.
And I remember a line in "Catch 22":
"He was very old."
"But he was a boy."
"Well, he died. You don't get any older than that."
And I remember a line in "Catch 22":
"He was very old."
"But he was a boy."
"Well, he died. You don't get any older than that."