Saramati had a strong connection with the SFBC Sangha. He was instrumental in helping set up Triratna activities in the Bay Area in 1988, when he taught Buddhism at Stanford University. He and his wife, Varasuri, practiced with us until moving to Missoula in 1991. He came back several times to lead retreats and study sessions with our sangha….
Here is the notice that went out to the international order:
20th September 2022
Dear Friends,
Our dear friend, husband, father and, above all, teacher, Saramati died on 19th September at his home in Missoula, Montana. He was cared for and surrounded by his family, and lived long enough to hold his new granddaughter.
Saramati was ordained on 30th May 1993 at Aryaloka, by Subhuti, his Private Preceptor and Sangharakshita, his Public Preceptor. He helped establish the San Francisco Buddhist Center, the Rocky Mountain Buddhist Center, and Dharmapala College.
Saramati was passionate about teaching the Dharma as an Order Member, as well as Asian Studies and Buddhism as a university professor. But he also just loved talking about the Dharma with whomever was interested. He was leading a small study group from our home up to a week before his death.
One of his last wishes was that he wanted any momentum that he had initiated to carry on even if he’s not aware of it being carried on. Today our sons Simon and Nate, and I, lovingly prepared his body for viewing. We will be holding a vigil at home for the next 48 hours when family and friends can sit with his body, chant, meditate and remember him. He will then be taken to Seattle to Recompose, a green composting funeral service.
Sometime in the coming month, Nate, Simon and I plan to travel to Seattle for the “Laying-in Ceremony” at Recompose, when Saramati’s body will be transferred into the composting vessel. There will be a memorial service for Saramati at a later date, to be determined.
With much love to all and appreciation for all those who sent him earlier wishes and remembrances,
Varasuri