Anand Acharya passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2024 at the age of 55, after an almost two-year battle with brain cancer surrounded by his wife and daughters. He remained unbelievably positive and accepting throughout his journey and lived each day to the fullest, spending his time with family and friends, travelling, biking, paddle boarding, walking, skating and reading. Two days prior to his passing, when the doctor asked him how he was doing he told her with all sincerity that “he was living his best life ever”. While he reached great heights in his professional life including being a Captain in the RCAF on the C130, obtaining a PhD in Economics from Carleton and being an Air Canada pilot on the Boeing 777, the thing he was most proud of was his family which he always made his top priority. He is survived by his wife (Kusum), his daughters (Nina and Jasmine), his sister (Anjali) and his parents (Padma and Jana). His wish was to be remembered and not mourned. To this end, a Remembrance of Life will be held at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa on Sunday, March 10th, 2024 from 12:00 to 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations for research may be made in Anand’s name to the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada
Digital Guestbook
John Weigelt
Bela & Paul Labovitch
We have the most wonderful memories of Anand's smile, gentleness and spirit of fun from the time we had to spend together. Our love to Kusum, Jasmine, Nina and the family.
Mark Thomasgard
Really sorry to hear that Anand was sick and of course that he has passed on. He was one of the most positive, modest, and talented guys I have ever known…an amazing example for his family and friends. My condolences to Kusum, his girls, and extended family
Marci Bulloch
I remember Anand as a kind, thoughtful, gentle young man. Such a good man, such a deep loss.
Bart Perrin
What a beauty, had the privilege of flying of flying with Anand and talking flying, family and hobbies.
Was a favorite to fly with and I always looked forward to seeing his name on the crew list. Heart goes out to family and friends.
Steve LeBlanc
Anand was great to work with. A great person and a great pilot. He will be missed.
Shawn Aaron and Karen Wolfish
Anand was our good friend. He was a brilliant conversationalist, a scholar, a chef, an accomplished economist, a sommelier, and a topnotch pilot. He was tolerant and friendly to all, except for authoritarians, whom he scorned. But above all, for us, he was a fantastic friend. We will miss the great wine, great espresso coffees, and warm lakeside moments that we shared with Anand. Our condolences to Kusum, Nina and Jasmine.
Adrienne Randolph
Anand was such a vibrant, honorable and memorable man. What a role model. I am so honored to have known him.
Cherisse Hansen
I had the privilege of knowing Anand as a dance dad. Watching his unwavering support and beaming pride in his girls throughout the years was so heartwarming.
He was always kind, warm and with a ready smile. Our deepest condolences to Kusum, Nina and Jasmine.
xo Cherisse, Dean, Saskia & Sadie
Todd Balfe
Anand was a true gentleman and thorough professional. Behind the seemingly quiet exterior was a deeply committed, highly intelligent and very humorous man. I was fortunate to know him when he was a student pilot in Moose Jaw and the quality of his character stood out. I am deeply saddened by his passing and was blessed to have known him. My sincere condolences.
Gosh, Anand was the most positive person during our RMC recruit term together. My heart goes out to all that he had a chance to connect with. To Kusum, Nina and Jasmine - Try to remember all the great moments you had together to help you through these toughest of times.