Paromita Deb-Rinker, age 52, of Ottawa, passed away on August 22, 2023 after a long battle with lung cancer. She is survived by her husband, Mike Rinker, and her two children, who made up the entirety of her world; Priya (age 20) and Eli (age 18).
Paromita was born on 22 October, 1970 to Mihir Deb and Jhunu Deb in Kolkata, India. After graduating from Springdale School in 1989, she went to Miranda House, Delhi University for her undergraduate degree, and later to Delhi University to get her Masters Degree in Zoology. Paromita then migrated to Canada in 1994 to complete her PhD in Molecular Biology at Western University in London Ontario.
Paromita had a successful career researching human diseases at Sick Kids in Toronto, the National Research Council, and the Ottawa Heart Institute. She later joined the Public Health Agency of Canada and supported Canada’s COVID response.
Paromita dedicated her life to being a fantastic and wonderful mother. She fought to maintain her health long enough to have both Priya and Eli get on their way to university.
Paromita was a passionate reader. When she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she was filling it with books. She brought rules and order to book club, and was a pioneer in establishing and enforcing rules and criteria for her friends to follow…
She is missed…
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society - Lung Cancer would be greatly appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
John P. Hageman
Kiza Sauve
Mike,
You, Priya and Eli are in my thoughts as you all try to navigate this impossible time. I'm sending all my love and during this difficult time.
Monica Hornof and Family
Mike, Priya and Eli - please accept our deepest condolences at this difficult time. We were so sorry to hear of Paromita's passing. I hope you can find some peace in remembering the wonderful times you shared together.
Lil Tonmyr
My deepest condolences, my heart and thoughts go to Mike, Priya and Eli. She will be remembered and missed at work.
Kind regards,
Lil Tonmyr
Lisa Bruneau
Mike, Priya and Eli, we were so saddened to hear of your loss. She was a wonderful lady and so loved her family, it was evident in everything she did for you. Take comfort in that she is finally at rest and is now your Angel watching out for you all. Be good to yourselves and reach out if you need anything. Lisa, Rod, Cameron and Sarah
Caroline Purvis and Bob Irvine
Mike, we are thinking of you and your family during this very sad and difficult time.
Carley Clouthier
My deepest condolences to you and your family, Mike. Thinking of you and sending you all strength in this incredibly difficult time.
Liana
Mike, Priya, Eli,
So very sorry to hear the sad news of Paromita's passing. Thinking of you and hoping you can draw some comfort knowing that you are in the hearts of so many people. Sending you strength.
Julie Burtt
Mike, my heart breaks for you. I used to enjoy stories at the 15th floor lunch table when you would bring up your family, because it was so lovely to see your face light up when you spoke about them. One thing was clear, the love in your family unit. I'm hoping those same stories bring you some comfort in this incredibly difficult time. My deepest condolences.
Sankar Laxman and Family
Hi Mike,
My thoughts and Prayers are with you and family. Its a great Loss to you and Priya and Eli. I feel for you, Priya and Eli, as I personally understand the sorrow, specifically faced by Priya and Eli. I will pray to the GOD to give strength to you, Priya and Eli. May her memories bring you, Priya and Eli solace.
Sankar Laxman and Family.
God loves a person that gives themself in the servvice of others.