We have decided to keep our ceremony private between close family. We thank you for your understanding. If you wish to view the proceedings, the recording can be found at http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/37696.
Giving
The memorial organizer requested donations in honor of Rishi Sharma
NRDC is the nation's most effective environmental action group, combining the grassroots power of 1.4 million... moreNRDC is the nation's most effective environmental action group, combining the grassroots power of 1.4 million members and online activists with the courtroom clout and expertise of more than 350 lawyers, scientists and other professionals.
The New York Times calls us "One of the nation's most powerful environmental groups." The National Journal says we're "A credible and forceful advocate for stringent environmental protection."
Our dedicated staff work with businesses, elected leaders, and community groups on the biggest issues we face today. Our priorities include:
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We created an online memorial to celebrate the life of Rishi Sharma. Collecting your stories, memories, and photos here will offer us great comfort during this time. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial and celebrating Rishi's life with us.
OBITUARY
Rishi Sharma was an adventurous and fun-loving individual, always ready to strike up a conversation and befriend a stranger. He had a knack of finding out what people were passionate about and providing insight into it. He had an unparalleled sense of humor that was loved by friends and family. When we traveled as a family, Rishi was leading the pack. He could find his way around a city and knew exactly what the hot spots were. If we... see more
Rishi Sharma was an adventurous and fun-loving individual, always ready to strike up a conversation and befriend a stranger. He had a knack of finding out what people were passionate about and providing insight into it. He had an unparalleled sense of humor that was loved by friends and family.
When we traveled as a family, Rishi was leading the pack. He could find his way around a city and knew exactly what the hot spots were. If we ever forgot the name of a place we visited or a tour guide we had, all eyes turned to Rishi: he had the memory of an elephant. He had a passion for history and geography from a young age - we stopped trying to compete for knowing the most capitals or remembering when certain wars began. This love culminated in an intense passion for seeing the world. He was a self-proclaimed wanderer, but he never forgot to bring back something for the family to see, from pictures to souvenirs to great tales.
Rishi was an absolutely incredible chef and loved trying out new recipes while paying careful attention to what those around him might like to eat, from vegan spicy tacos to Thai curry. He enjoyed sharing his dishes with the people in his life and seeing their faces light up when they took that first bite.
We will never forget Rishi's unique entrepreneurial spirit. Most people might leave old clothes or technology in their closets to become dusty and forgotten, but Rishi was quick to find these items, refurbish them, and turn them over as soon as possible.
Rishi had a passion for environmental justice. From pushing us to start recycling in the home to donating to environmental causes, he was committed to seeing a more sustainable future for the next generation. This is why we are designating the Natural Resources Defense Council as the charity for friends and family to donate to in his memory. We chose this charity because they seek to protect elements of the earth that Rishi cherished and saw as basic human rights: clean air, land, and water. Learn more about NRDC here: https://www.nrdc.org/about
Rishi was a wonderful son, brother, and friend to all who knew him. We will miss him dearly and keep him in our hearts forever.
As we get closer to two years since you passed, I find myself reaching out to see your pictures. Rishi, you were a very special person and know that you are missed. You made a big impact in a short time❤️.
So many of my memories of Rishi were from my conversations with his dad over the years, though Radhi and I do have fond memories when Rishi and family visited us in Dallas. Through these years and often virtual interactions I could see how Rishi... moreSo many of my memories of Rishi were from my conversations with his dad over the years, though Radhi and I do have fond memories when Rishi and family visited us in Dallas. Through these years and often virtual interactions I could see how Rishi blossomed from a kid to a wonderful adult. My most vivid memory and lasting memory though was when we were all together at a wedding in Colorado. I think Rishi had just started a new and possibly his first job. He was excited, often anxious of the deadlines, partaking in the festivities yet running off laptop in hand to find a quiet corner to work! Rishi's life touched many, he will be missed by all, yet forever will be in our hearts. Vandana, Raj, Rhea, Mummy, we continue to shocked and deeply saddened by your terrible loss. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with you. less
As one of my favorite cousins, Rishi always held a special place in my heart. He was always someone I looked up to being so tall, strong, funny, courageous and overall be able to be friends with everyone. I loved how Rishi lived life to the fullest and I... moreAs one of my favorite cousins, Rishi always held a special place in my heart. He was always someone I looked up to being so tall, strong, funny, courageous and overall be able to be friends with everyone. I loved how Rishi lived life to the fullest and I always wanted to do the things he thought were “cool”. I wanted to play football, be personable, and travel the world just like he did. From all the memories, including wildly running around your house naked when we were kids, I can not remember nothing less than an amazing day with my lovable favorite cousin. I miss you so much Rishi and you will always hold a special place in my heart. I’ll always remember that beautiful smile and brightening everyone’s life. I hope you’re resting and are looking over all of our shoulders, King. Love you Rishi ❤️ less
Rhea SharmaSo much love for you Soham! As angry as I seemed about you copying everything Rishi did when we were kids, it was just because I was extremely jealous. Except maybe about the naked part hahaha. Both these pictures make me so, so happy, brother - thank... moreSo much love for you Soham! As angry as I seemed about you copying everything Rishi did when we were kids, it was just because I was extremely jealous. Except maybe about the naked part hahaha. Both these pictures make me so, so happy, brother - thank you for posting.
Rishi, you are an absolute legend. I’m incredibly grateful that we became closer over the last 5 years and we were able to share great memories with great people together. From tailgating in Ann Arbor, to hanging out in SF and Palo Alto, to celebrating... moreRishi, you are an absolute legend. I’m incredibly grateful that we became closer over the last 5 years and we were able to share great memories with great people together. From tailgating in Ann Arbor, to hanging out in SF and Palo Alto, to celebrating the 4th in Lake Tahoe, every experience has been memorable. You have a natural ability to make impactful impressions onto others which I will forever carry on in my heart. I want to embody your courageous, passionate, and loving spirit and make a difference like I know you would want all of us to do. Thank you for that man. Rest well my friend, love Shivam less
We cannot forget your contagious smile.
Your unassuming, but ever present charm.
Your love of adventure and discovery.
Your light will not dull but will continue to shine even brighter.
Praying for Vandana, Raj, Rhea Fui, Tina, Nitinbhai,... moreFor Rishi
We cannot forget your contagious smile.
Your unassuming, but ever present charm.
Your love of adventure and discovery.
Your light will not dull but will continue to shine even brighter.
Praying for Vandana, Raj, Rhea Fui, Tina, Nitinbhai, Nisel, and Eva. We are all grieving with you. Sending you our prayers and Gods strength for this difficult journey ahead.
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Rishi.
Rishi, thank you for being a true light in everyone’s life. We had really great times with all of our friends and I always have known you’re an amazing person who I am so grateful to have... moreMy sincere condolences to the family and friends of Rishi.
Rishi, thank you for being a true light in everyone’s life. We had really great times with all of our friends and I always have known you’re an amazing person who I am so grateful to have known. You said to me around our graduation from high school to “never change who I am” and I remember that so fondly to this day; I think about that often. It has been a while since we have spoken has but you were always such a kind friend and someone I always looked too for smiles. Rest In Peace, or as we used to say, Reeshes Peeshes. 💜 less
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Rishi.
Rishi, thank you for being a true light in everyone’s life. We had really great times with all of our friends and I always have known you’re an amazing person who I am so grateful to have... moreMy sincere condolences to the family and friends of Rishi.
Rishi, thank you for being a true light in everyone’s life. We had really great times with all of our friends and I always have known you’re an amazing person who I am so grateful to have known. You said to me around our graduation from high school to “never change who I am” and I remember that so fondly to this day; I think about that often. It has been a while since we have spoken has but you were always such a kind friend and someone I always looked too for smiles. Rest In Peace, or as we used to say, Reeshes Peeshes. less
Dearest Vandana, Raj and Rhea, we are absolutely heartbroken over this terrible loss I wish I had words to lighten your agony but sometimes words are just not enough, please accept our condolences, you are in our thoughts and prayers. sonia and jay
Words cannot do justice to the profound loss you have suffered.We are all feeling the pain. We just want to comfort you in any way possible.Praying for all of you every minute. Your family is an example of ideals, character and love that we all look up... moreWords cannot do justice to the profound loss you have suffered.We are all feeling the pain. We just want to comfort you in any way possible.Praying for all of you every minute. Your family is an example of ideals, character and love that we all look up to. All our love and prayers.
Meera, Atul, Saniya ,Ananya, Aryaman less
Dear Aunty, Raj, Vandana and Rhea
Words cannot capture the grief we feel on hearing the sad news. Our sincere hope is that the wonderful memories that you have built together as a family provide you solace at this difficult time.
Rishi was more than a best friend. Rishi was someone I would talk to on a daily basis. We would chat about sports and soccer, we traveled together with our other friends, we celebrated our birthdays together (our birthdays were 4 days apart), we would... moreRishi was more than a best friend. Rishi was someone I would talk to on a daily basis. We would chat about sports and soccer, we traveled together with our other friends, we celebrated our birthdays together (our birthdays were 4 days apart), we would talk about the countries we would like to visit (even though Rishi had been to over 80 countries!) and we would reminisce about our high school days. Rishi was more than a best friend, he was a part of my life. I will never forget our friendship and all the great times we had together. Some of the best times of my life were with you, and for that I would like to say, thank you. Sending my deepest sympathies to your family. less
Heartbroken and sad is how we feel today!. Sages always tell you that life is not fair...not equal in how it treats people. Well for us it just got a whole lot unfair this week. Handsome and dashing Rishi being... moreDear Raj, Vandana, Rhea and revered Aunty
Heartbroken and sad is how we feel today!. Sages always tell you that life is not fair...not equal in how it treats people. Well for us it just got a whole lot unfair this week. Handsome and dashing Rishi being snatched so cruelly from a loving and beautiful family ....our heart cries out for justice...before the Almighty. May he give you all strength and resolve to fight this injustice. The world is surely a sadder place today! Let's try to make it a little less melancholic by reminiscing the many joyful moments that you all enjoyed with him.
Rishi was a year younger than my own son, almost to the day, so even though we never met with him, we feel we have lost a near and dear one. May god bless the family and provide the much needed helping hand to overcome this big vacuum in their lives. less
Dear Raj, Vandana, Rhea on behalf of your extended MSU Family please accept our deepest condolences to you and family in this time of grief.
Rishi was such a beautiful presence in this world it seems to me he lived his life like a candle in the wind.... moreDear Raj, Vandana, Rhea on behalf of your extended MSU Family please accept our deepest condolences to you and family in this time of grief.
Rishi was such a beautiful presence in this world it seems to me he lived his life like a candle in the wind.
Goodbye Rishi, May you ever grow in our hearts
Now you belong to heaven
And the stars spell out your name
And it seems to me you lived your life
Like a candle in the wind
Never fading with the sunset
These empty days without your smile
This torch we'll always carry
For the Sharma's golden child
And even though we try
The truth brings us to tears
All our words cannot express
The joy you brought us through the years
And it seems to me you lived your life
His soul has moved on, but he will always be with you.
Please know we are thinking of you during this time. less
Words cannot describe the shock from this untimely tragedy. I had the pleasure of watching him grow from a toddler into the wonderful young man that he had become. His sense of adventure, his love for travel, his love... moreDear Aunty, Vandana, Raj and Rhea,
Words cannot describe the shock from this untimely tragedy. I had the pleasure of watching him grow from a toddler into the wonderful young man that he had become. His sense of adventure, his love for travel, his love to create and experiment foods, his drive to make his parents proud, his love for his grandmother and family...Rishi, I could go on about all the wonderful things that made you, you. But I would like to note the impressions you left behind. Your love for life and your drive to live life each day in its fullest is something most of us strive for. Your laughter was real and contagious and you found a way to always engage in conversations and connect with people.
Rishi's presence will be missed and I pray that you find comfort from your faith, family and friends. He will live in our minds and hearts forever.
Manisha less
Words fail me. Shocked, heartbroken and devastated. I can never forget Rishi's welcoming smile on numerous occasions when the Sharma family welcomed me in their house. Raj, Vandana, Rhea..can only wish all the strength you need. Rishi will continue to... moreWords fail me. Shocked, heartbroken and devastated. I can never forget Rishi's welcoming smile on numerous occasions when the Sharma family welcomed me in their house. Raj, Vandana, Rhea..can only wish all the strength you need. Rishi will continue to live in our memories. less
Dear Raj, Vandna, Shakuntalaben ( Mummy ) and Rhea, We are deeply shocked and feeling so helpless that we can't think of anything to give you some comfort. We do remember Rishi when he was a kid and last we met him at my daughter Anuradha's wedding in... moreDear Raj, Vandna, Shakuntalaben ( Mummy ) and Rhea, We are deeply shocked and feeling so helpless that we can't think of anything to give you some comfort. We do remember Rishi when he was a kid and last we met him at my daughter Anuradha's wedding in 2017. At that time he was looking so tall and handsome guy. As I was super busy with wedding I couldn't spend much time with him. But now as we are remembering him as a little kid , I cannot forget his cuteness and all those childlike mischief that made him more sweet . He used to say Sanjay 'Sanan' uncle and Sanjay used to buy him ice cream as he stayed with you guys for few months as he was new in this country. They both were attached to each other and also got along very well. I also remember the time that you guys came to India when Rishi was still a baby and his cute mischiefs. Jay shree Krishna.🙏 less
Rhea Sharma
Thank you Parul Aunty for your kind memories, thoughts, condolences, and prayers. We sincerely appreciate it and smiled at the memories you shared of more recent visits and past ones.
I don’t know where to start as we process the implications of Rishi’s untimely departure. Most days start with a reminder that Rishi lived in the moment for every moment. Strangely, even though I would never tell him to his face, I find the most... moreI don’t know where to start as we process the implications of Rishi’s untimely departure. Most days start with a reminder that Rishi lived in the moment for every moment. Strangely, even though I would never tell him to his face, I find the most comfort in the words he wrote about himself on the countless adventures he shared on his Instagram. I’m his oldest cousin, and our parents are siblings so that means there are very few early memories and foundational milestones in my life that were spared from Rishi’s sunshine or weren’t blessed by his enthusiasm. Holiday. Vacations. Graduations. Each of these are cherished memories now and in someways I will always feel both his absence and presence at the same time for future occasions. His absence will be the audible silence where one would normally expect the sound of his booming laughter or signature Sharma sneeze. Maybe even as an empty seat at the table. But I’ll feel his presence as well - it will be the reminder to enjoy the moment, or a sudden feeling of immense and unexplainable joy, as I think this is the energy he has left behind for all of us.
Rishi, I can’t believe you’re gone, but I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories you’ve left behind and I’m so deeply grateful we crossed paths in this lifetime. less
What a special person. Rishi had an incredible ability to make those around him feel at comfort. He always treated my brothers and I like family and would spread his beaming confidence, breaking us out of our timid shells, with ease. His sense of humor... moreWhat a special person. Rishi had an incredible ability to make those around him feel at comfort. He always treated my brothers and I like family and would spread his beaming confidence, breaking us out of our timid shells, with ease. His sense of humor would provide others with belly aching laughter, and he had an unforgettable laugh and smile. Rishi had an impressive knowledge of the world and left me knowing more of the places we'd be, or would have discussions about. Rishi's heart was big and you knew family was frequently on his mind, by spending a day with him, and listening to a story about a parent, sibling, cousin, aunt or uncle. I will forever cherish the time I got to spend with Rishi, and I am so grateful for how he impacted my life, for the better. less
Rishi you have visited 60 countries in this 28yrs. of life! I don’t think I know anyone who has traveled this many countries! You are a wonderful, lovable and such a kind hearted person. I am going to miss all the times we came to D.C. and eating with... moreRishi you have visited 60 countries in this 28yrs. of life! I don’t think I know anyone who has traveled this many countries! You are a wonderful, lovable and such a kind hearted person. I am going to miss all the times we came to D.C. and eating with you at Rasika, Bombay Club, and Fiola Mare. Your sense of humor and love and passion for history and geography is impeccable . We love you Rishi ♥️ less
I have no words of comfort in my heart for Raj, Vandana, Rhea, Shakuntala Masi and the immediate family. I hope you all feel surrounded by much love and may God bestow the strength you all will need in the times ahead. Love, Mallika
I have no words of comfort to provide, I wish I had actions that could take the pain away. Thinking of you all, our hearts our with you and broken with yours.
Mostly I remember Rishi as a young boy, but my favorite was at his graduation party. He was... moreI have no words of comfort to provide, I wish I had actions that could take the pain away. Thinking of you all, our hearts our with you and broken with yours.
Mostly I remember Rishi as a young boy, but my favorite was at his graduation party. He was beaming from ear to ear all night, and gave such a beautiful speech, full of charisma, laughter, and love. Unfortunately, we didn’t see each other often, but when we did, he made a point to chat and engage. So charming and a smile that could win anyone. May he always be in peace, and may you all be wrapped by comfort and peace only God can provide. Forever in our prayers, with love, Shannon, Koumal, Anjali, and Liam less
Rishi was unique and special in his own ways. He also made friends wherever he went - he was the most gregarious person I’ve had the pleasure to know. He was creative, witty, hilarious, and had a heart of gold. He didn’t like to see others in pain.... moreRishi was unique and special in his own ways. He also made friends wherever he went - he was the most gregarious person I’ve had the pleasure to know. He was creative, witty, hilarious, and had a heart of gold. He didn’t like to see others in pain. If someone was feeling down, he was the first person to cheer them up. He had a powerful way of making everyone in the room feel special and he had a magnetic energy about him. People wanted to be around him. I’ve never put much thought into the phrase, but now I get it - Rishi truly was larger than life. I will miss you so much big brother and I love you dearly. Thank you for making my life brighter. less
Oh my gosh. Rishi’s main photo reminds me of Raj as a young man so alike. Words cannot express the sorrow of yours and our loss for Rishi As the song goes Gone too soon. May his love for you and memories comfort you. Prayers and hugs to give... moreOh my gosh. Rishi’s main photo reminds me of Raj as a young man so alike. Words cannot express the sorrow of yours and our loss for Rishi As the song goes Gone too soon. May his love for you and memories comfort you. Prayers and hugs to give you strength. Archana less
I’ve got so many memories with Rishi. So many I am going to cherish forever. So many I wish i could reminisce with you. All I can say is I’m truly blessed to have had you as a cousin and big brother in my life. You will be missed dearly. I still... moreI’ve got so many memories with Rishi. So many I am going to cherish forever. So many I wish i could reminisce with you. All I can say is I’m truly blessed to have had you as a cousin and big brother in my life. You will be missed dearly. I still have that bottle of champagne you bought me after your victory of the Security + exam. I think August 1st 2021 with Kartik is when I’m gonna pop it open. It’s still shocking to think I am writing this right now, but just like you said in that video i guess “Anything that happens is for a reason”. Love you brother. Forever. #BigReeshForeverless
My earliest and fondest memories of Rishi were as a cute and happy young boy of about five years of age with big dark bright eyes. He had come to spend time with his grandparents’ in Brooklyn where I too was staying at that time. During the weekend he... moreMy earliest and fondest memories of Rishi were as a cute and happy young boy of about five years of age with big dark bright eyes. He had come to spend time with his grandparents’ in Brooklyn where I too was staying at that time. During the weekend he could not wait for me to get up so he would come down to the basement despite his grandma’s admonitions, snuggle upto to me and ask me if I was up yet!
As the hot summer evenings drew to a close, we would go to the playground across his grandparent’s home and get ice cream. Over the years we continued to meet at family gatherings and functions. Then after a gap of a few years we met again, and I said, “Rishi, you probably don’t remember me or the fact that we would go to the playground in the evenings in Brooklyn.” He promptly responded, “Yes I do and you bought me ice cream!”.
I will forever remember and cherish not only the cuddly little boy snuggling up to me but as a young man who grew up to be smart, strong, and adventurous in spirit and heart. He will remain in my heart forever. less
I knew Rishi to be a bright, inquisitive young man. I remember fondly his graduation celebration, and got a chuckle out of him rapping Vanilla Ice in a helium-induced, high voice from one of his party balloons. I remember him at my sister's wedding to... moreI knew Rishi to be a bright, inquisitive young man. I remember fondly his graduation celebration, and got a chuckle out of him rapping Vanilla Ice in a helium-induced, high voice from one of his party balloons. I remember him at my sister's wedding to Mike. I remember him being excited to watch the Final Four during a visit to McLean. I remember like he's still here. I cannot believe he isn't. We are all grieving with you, even if not beside you. Fui, Raj Bhai, Vandana, Tina, Nitin Bhai, Nisel, Eva and Rhea, you are in our constant prayers. With all our love - The Wernekes less
To my dear cousins Raj and Vandana, Rhea, Shakuntala Fui, Tina and her family: Albert and I are heartbroken for you. Please know that we grieve with you and for you and know that are praying fervently for you all. Our deepest condolences on your unimaginable loss.