Obituary

Chitra Bhat passed away on February 19, 2017 at age 61. She will be remembered as a loving wife, supportive mother, doting grandmother, and valued friend.

Chitra was born on May 5, 1955 in Madras, India to T.M. and Sita Ramachandran. She lived most of her life in Bombay, India, where she met Vasant Bhat, her husband of 38 years. While in Bombay, she attended Narsimonji College to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

In 1992, Chitra and Vasant moved with their two children to the United States and settled in Chicago. She worked as an accountant for many companies — both large and small — and recently earned her public accountant certification (CPA).

Chitra was known for her determination and perseverance. She exhibited these qualities as she worked toward becoming a CPA. She dedicated long hours to studying the complex material. Despite failing the final exam multiple times, she never gave up. She finally passed the test in 2008. Chitra exhibited these qualities again during her fight against cancer. She was diagnosed with cancer three times. With determination and optimism, she successfully beat cancer in 1997 and went into remission for 18 years. During that time, she participated in many charitable events, including the Avon Breast Cancer Walk where she walked all 60 miles with her husband by her side. Emboldened by the walk, Chitra trained for and ran a half marathon. Although she was not the most athletic person and never a runner, her perseverance carried her through and once again proved itself to be the strongest weapon in her arsenal.

Although she enjoyed her career, philanthropy, and new challenges, Chitra most loved her family and friends. She was a loving and kind person, willing to do anything possible to help others in need. Chitra is survived by her husband, Vasant Bhat; son, Anoop (Joyce) Bhat; daughter Mansi (Ernesto) Almaraz; and granddaughter, Akira Bhat. A visitation will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, February 23 at Lakeview Funeral Home, 1458 W. Belmont, Chicago. Info – 773-472-6300 or www.LakeviewFuneralHome.com.