Rajendra Dorian Punj Obituary (1953

Rajendra Dorian Punj, known affectionately as Dorian, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on March 19, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado. Dorian was born on June 13, 1953, in Queens, New York, to Virendra Prakash Punj and Brigitte R. Punj, Dorian's early years were a tapestry of cultures, having been raised in New Delhi, India. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, as well as a respected businessman and community member. Dorian's life was marked by his wisdom, generosity, and intelligence, traits that endeared him to all who knew him. Dorian's academic prowess was evident from a young age, culminating in his graduation from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science in Management. His time at MIT was not just about studies; he embraced the collegiate experience as a member of a fraternity, fostering lifelong friendships and a network of peers. Dorian had two daughters by his first wife Jeanne, Julia Anjali Punj affianced to Gareth Wallace, and Michelle Shivani Punj married to Gordon Spencer Clapperton. Michelle gave Dorian two beautiful granddaughters, Isla and Lucy. On August 22, 1996, Dorian married, Natalia Iounakova, in Fairfield and in 1997 Alexander Govind Punj was born. Dorian's three children were a source of immense pride and joy for him. Dorian will be deeply missed by his sister, Cornelia Punj. Memories of Dorian will be cherished forever by his immediate family, his extended family, his step-granddaughter to be, Tiana Wallace, his many friends, his business associates and employees and all those whose lives he touched. Dorian's zest for life was evident in his many hobbies and interests. He was an avid tennis player, skier, chess enthusiast and swimmer. His athletic abilities were not just for leisure; as a teenager he was the Indian national diving champion and continued to showcase his talents on the dive team at MIT. He was also a passionate Kansas City Chiefs fan, celebrating their triumphs with the same enthusiasm he brought to every aspect of his life. Professionally, Dorian was a visionary entrepreneur. As the owner and operator of Insultec Worldwide, he grew his business worldwide, with offices in the United Kingdom, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam, the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Egypt, Brunei, and Peru. His leadership and innovative approach to business provided employment for over 1,200 people, leaving a legacy of economic growth and opportunity. A Vedic service to honor Dorian's life will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield. The service will reflect the rich cultural heritage that Dorian held dear, followed by a private cremation. Friends and loved ones are invited to leave online condolences and view the livestream of the service at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com. Dorian's legacy is one of brilliance, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. His life was a testament to the power of embracing knowledge, fostering relationships, and living with a generous spirit. He will be remembered as a pillar of wisdom and kindness, leaving behind a world forever enriched by his presence.