Viswanathan Krishnan

Viswanathan Krishnan, known as Viswan to close family and VK to the community, aged 67, of Upper Darby, PA, passed away surrounded by family and friends on April 30, 2024. Born in Kerala, India, he was the son of the late KR Krishnan and Karthiyayani Krishnan of Vengassery family. He is survived by his wife Sarayoobala Krishnan, daughters Nitha Viswanathan and Dr. Nikhila “Nikki” Viswanathan, siblings Vilasini, Asokan, Murali, Malathi, Prasad, and many nieces and nephews.

VK was known for his kind heart, dedication, and generosity to all who knew him. Growing up, he was a star athlete excelling in running and long-jump at the district level. When he was 14, his mother became bedridden and tasked him with the duty of raising his four younger siblings as their older sister was away in Northern India pursuing higher studies. This is when he developed his signature flavor and spice and where his love of cooking was born. Some years later, he learned resilience when he and his brother, Murali, went to Punjab, India to provide for their family. Later, the two would arrive in the US together on the 24th of April, 1984. While in the US, they both acquired certifications in allied healthcare disciplines. VK went on to work at the Childrens’ Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and DuPont Hospital for Children as a medical technologist for many years until he went into early retirement due to health issues.  

After getting married to his wife Sarayoo in 1986, the two learned to garden various vegetables, plants, and flowers. VK would share his vegetables and curry leaf saplings with friends, family, and neighbors. He was compassionate to living creatures big and small;  he would make sure to leave abundant food and water for birds and other animals that visited his backyard. Friends and family came to love his backyard parties and everyone who came to his backyard left with their hearts and stomachs full. 

VK’s difficult medical journey began in 2002 following a medical procedure. At the age of 47, he was told he would not live past 50. He proved everyone wrong by living 21 years longer than they had expected. VK’s doctors appreciated his positive outlook on life. VK used to say that his retired life began earlier than expected, but that he didn’t mind it. 

VK had a big heart and always helped those in need. No matter how small or how big a problem was, he was always there to support anyone. He also had a wonderful sense of humor and was a great storyteller.

VK was a devotee of Sree Narayana Gurudevan. He was an active Lifetime/Director Board member of the SNA Philadelphia and was serving as the Auditor of the organization until the time of his passing. He was one of the founding life directors of Sivagiri Ashram of North America, SANA. He found so much joy in going to the Sivagiri Ashram and supporting his community.  His belief in God is what supported him throughout his difficult journey in life.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing and service from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, May 4^th, 2024.

Live Stream of the funeral can be found here: https://aerodigitalstudio.com/live/