Muscat: Shaji Varghese, an employee of the Oman Daily Observer for over three decades, passed away after a brief illness in his hometown, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, early on Monday.
He was working as a graphic designer at the time of his death. Shaji Varghese, fondly known as Shaji among his colleagues and friends, served Observer since 1992 and had been a part of the daily in bringing to the readers the national march of renaissance.
“It is a sad day for the Observer family. May Allah Almighty rest his soul in peace and grant strength to the bereaved family and friends to bear this irreparable loss,” said Abdullah al Shueili, Editor-in-Chief of Observer.
The ‘ever-smiling Shaji’ was a man for all seasons. Whether addressing production concerns, page-making challenges, or offering spontaneous support, Shaji was the guiding light.
“In this tragic moment, our heartfelt prayers go to his family, hoping they find the strength to endure the loss, and may God protect and support them during this difficult time. It is really shocking news! The void created by the demise of Shaji will remain forever as he was so dear to one and all at work. RIP and condolences to Shaji’s family,” said Shaddad al Musalmy, senior editor, at the Observer.
“More than a dedicated colleague, Shaji is a good human being, and we all at Observer will miss him,” said M Rajesh, a News Editor, who has known him for more than two decades.
Yasser al Kiyumi, the chief designer, who knew Shaji for 19 years, says he was a best friend who will be missed by him and his colleagues in the design department.
Shaji worked hard and was very cooperative in his daily duties, he recalled.
Samuel Kutty, a former colleague who started his career at the Observer around the same time as Shaji, said, “Shaji was known to me for more than 25 years and professionally, he was exemplary.
His commitment to work was unparalleled. Before joining the graphics department, Shaji worked in the purchasing department.
In the late 90s when Observer was not fully computerised, Shaji was of great help to the editorial staff in finishing the work and sending the paper for print. In every trying circumstance, he was available with his assistance help disregarding the duty hours.”
Another long-time colleague Samba Sawant said, “Shaji will always be remembered for being a happy person. May God rest his soul in peace and give his family and friends strength to cope during this difficult time.”
Shaji is survived by wife Jessy Mariamma George, working in SQUH, daughters Irene Anna Shaji (Architect), and Ilene Maria Shaji who is pursuing MBBS.
Vicars, managing committee and all parish members of the Mar Gregorios Orthodox Maha Edavaka (MGOME) extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and remembered him as a very loyal and service-oriented believer who never spared any opportunity to help fellow beings hoping for the departed soul rest in eternal peace.
Family members of the deceased informed that the funeral will be held at St Stephen’s Orthodox Cathedral Church, Makkamkunnu on Wednesday
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