Pathickal Joseph Kurian

Pathickal Joseph Kurian (or Raju or Njoonji) was born into the Pathickal family of Keezhillam, Kerala, India on August 4th, 1942. He was the third child of Mr. P. P. Joseph and Mrs. Mariamma Joseph. He grew up with his siblings, Rev. Dr. Paul Pathickal, the Late Mr. P. J. Varghese, the Late Mr. P. J. John, Mr. P. J. Stephen, Mrs. Shantha Varghese, Mr. Sam Pathickal, and Mrs. Nancy Jacob in Keezhillam. In high school, he was an avid sportsman who won many trophies and was the soccer team captain.

In 1963, he joined as a civilian in the Indian army and worked there for seven years. During his time in North India, he excelled in his training and athletics. In 1970, he moved to Abu Dhabi, UAE and worked in the Defense Department. He lived with his family in Abu Dhabi along with two of his siblings and their families. The St. Thomas Evangelical Church in Abu Dhabi was started in his home in 1976.

On June 3rd, 1972, he married Ponnamma of the Puthuparambil family, Kaviyoor and was blessed with five children: Ruby, Reeba, Reena, Reema, and Robin. After a service of 24 years, he retired from the Defense Department at the age of 52 and returned to Keezhillam.

The next phase of his life started in 1996 when he moved to Dallas, TX with his wife and three of their younger children. After initially working for the Dallas Morning News, he joined Sanden Intl. and retired after 13 years at the age of 67. He was one of the early members of the St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, Dallas, and he served as an active and dedicated lay leader for the worship services. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Ponnamma Kurian, as well as his children and grandchildren: 
Ruby, Alexy, Leah and Hannah 
Reeba, Biju, Tresha and Tessa 
Reena, Joju, Joshua and Sarah
Reema, Manu, Jayden and Emma 
Robin, Lindsey, Amari and Remi

Raju was called to be with his Heavenly Father on December 3rd, 2024. He was a very devoted family man and lived a life that was pleasing to God. We will strive as a family to follow his example of leading a life of simplicity, harmony, and purpose. Our beloved Daddy will be missed dearly, and we pray we will be together again on that beautiful shore one day.