Obituary of Sudha Nakhate V. Rao (Bhure)

Sudha Nakhate V. Rao (Bhure) passed away peacefully with her children by her side on Thursday, March 12th, 2026.

Sudha was a woman of grace, warmth, strength, and generosity whose life was deeply centered around her family and community. She was known for her kindness, quiet wisdom, and the love she extended to everyone around her. Her curiosity and openness to learning led her to many memorable life experiences. Fiercely independent, Sudha continued to work and contribute to her community until her illness slowed her down.

In her middle age, after the untimely accident of her husband, Dr. Nakhate Vittal Rao (d. 2005), she devoted herself to caring for him with extraordinary love and dedication until his passing.

Her presence brought comfort, stability, and unity to those who knew her, and her legacy lives on through the generations of family she nurtured.

She is lovingly remembered by her children:
Atul Nakhate Rao (b. 1964) (Victoria Shepherd Rao) , Ajit Nakhate Rao (b. 1969), and Sheila Nakhate Rao (b. 1974) (Christopher David Huggins). Sudha was a proud grandmother to James Narayan Rao (b. 1998) (Kyria Anahi Sztainbok), Siddhartha H. Rao (b. 2009), and Safia H. Rao (b. 2011), and a joyful great-grandmother to Miles Sztainbok Rao (b. 2025).

Her love, guidance, and enduring spirit will continue to live in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Sudha’s family is grateful for the care and support from staff at the  Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, The Wellington West Retirement Home and Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice.

Funeral and memorial service details will be shared with family and friends.

Donations accepted for Hospice Care Ottawa and the Ovarian Cancer Charity through the Canadian Cancer Society.