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
Lise Maisonneuve
Katie Greenwood
So sorry for your loss Mike, Priya and Eli. As a passionate colleague at PHAC, Paromita always talked so warmly of her family (including the dog!). Always kind, funny and passionate. I have thought about her so often over the past few years. So, so sorry to hear this sad news. Take care of each other.
William Purdy
Mike,
I have you all in my thoughts, as does my whole family. We are all so sorry for your loss.
Candida Cianci
My heart is with you and the beautiful children that Paromita and yourself have raised. May she live on in your hearts and memories. You all have been so brave and fought so hard, I continue to send you strength during this difficult time.
Rashmi Luther
Sincere condolences to you all. What a tragic loss. Thinking of you and sending our love and support through this difficult time of grief.
Josee Stone
I am so sorry for your loss Mike. Thinking of you and your family during these difficult times.
Pierre Lahaie
To you and your family Mike, Please accept my sincerest sympathies for your loss. I feel reassured that your strength of character will help you and your children in getting through this difficult time.
Julie Leblanc
I am so sorry for your tremendous loss Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your kiddos, and your entire family. Sending you hugs.
Leanne
My deepest condolences to this precious family. May you be comforted in this difficult time.
Malcolm McKee and family
Mike, Priya and Eli, we are all so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that our hearts and thoughts are with you all, during this sad time.
Mike, Priya, and Eli,
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Paromita was such a kind and compassionate soul. She fought hard and even refused to miss book club. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Sincere condolences. Lise, Colin, Théo and Antoine