Ekanayake, Upali

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Upali Ekanayake, who died at the age of 66. Upali was a devoted husband, loving father and “bonus father,” adoring grandfather, and successful entrepreneur, whose life was defined by his kindness, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to family.

Upali was born on May 1, 1959, to M.B. Ekanayake and Lidia Nissanka. Though he recently moved to Dover, Delaware, to be closer to his daughter and new granddaughter, Upali was a lifelong New Yorker at heart. He was a proud graduate of Royal College in Sri Lanka and carried an entrepreneurial spirit throughout his career in New York.

A true family man, Upali ensured that everyone around him was always taken care of. He had a remarkable ability to connect with anyone, a testament to his down-to-earth nature and generous spirit. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, often putting the needs of others before his own.

Upali possessed an array of passions that enriched his life, including an enduring love for music, classic and moderncars, and creating beauty through landscaping.He was also a lover of fine coffeeand had a special place in his heart for his cats. His greatest joy in recent months was his granddaughter, Aariya, and his move to Delaware this year was motivated entirely by his wish to spend time with her.

Upali is survived by his beloved wife, Harshani Ekanayake; his cherished daughter, Nicole Ekanayake, and her husband, Rishi Patel; his precious granddaughter, Aariya Patel; and his “bonus daughter,” Tynika Smith, Nicole’s childhood best friend whom he considered his own child.

His legacy is one of loyalty, hard work, and a generous heart that enjoyed the nicer things in life, but always made sure to share that prosperity and warmth with those he loved.”

All are welcome for a service on Friday December 12, at 5:30 pm at McCrery and Harra Funeral Home, 3710 Kirkwood Highway Wilmington 19808. A vieiwng time will follow until 8:45 pm. Burial will be private.