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
Lori Sukkau
Marlène Longpré
Please accept my deepest and sincere condolences.
Om Bhargava
I am extremely pained to learn about her death. Bravely she was battling against cancer for last few years. She leaves an example of dedication and fortitude to her children and the world. My heartfelt condolences to Mihir, Jhunu and her husband Mike. May her soul attain Moksha.
Yong Chang
Please accept my deepest condolences, Mike. We are here to support you in whatever way we can!
Lindsey
I’m so sorry for your loss. She had such a big heart and a warm smile, she will be greatly missed.
So sorry for your loss Mike…
So sorry for your loss Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sheri MacDonald
Mike and family, my deepest condolences to you all. This is a tremendous loss and I hope you find comfort in each other and in sharing memories.
SUCHANDRA CHAKRAVARTY
My heartfelt condolences to all those she has left behind. She left the shores of one country to make a home in another. Now it seems that her journey continues beyond the shores of this earth. I will remember her as I last saw her at her niece Rhea's wedding: Enjoying every minute, and also, proudly showing us her children's videos. Travel well into the unknown, Mou.
Sandy Baillieul
I am so sorry for your loss. Paromita was a wonderful friend who I enjoyed sharing stories with at the gym. She had the most warm and welcoming smile. My sincere condolences to Mike, Priya, and Eli.
Steven McFaull
Mike, Priya, Eli,
I worked with Paromita at PHAC for a few years. I remember her as very kind and interesting. We shared a love of food and books. I will miss her. My thoughts are with you.
Mike, I am so very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family. Thoughts are with you during this difficult time.