Martin Uncle

In April last year we visited Martin Uncle in Hingurakgoda, reluctantly thinking that it may be the last time we see him. He died at the ripe age of 98 in last month. He had the most colorful life among all my relatives. He was born in 1912. He became a novice Buddhist monk at the age of seven and ordained at 21.

He gave up the priesthood and restarted his life as a farmer in 1940’s. He was a pioneer in the new frontier of dryzone irrigation project of Minneriya. He became a very successful farmer and a leader among the new settlers. He was well read, outspoken and full of advice to next two generations. His advice and well wishes were sought after by relatives, neighbors, politicians and government officers alike.

He was very alert until the hour of his death. His last act was to offer good advice to his children. He was well looked after by his family, who never allowed him a minute of loneliness!