In loving memory of Natasha Sita Anderson (Perera), born on September 16, 1977, we celebrate her life and mourn her passing on February 1st, 2024, surrounded by her family after being suddenly hospitalized and overwhelmed by a rapid onset and inexplicable physical illness. Natasha was a compassionate soul, radiating unwavering love and empathy for all.
Though her life was taken from us, her beautiful soul is everlasting. Natasha found solace in her friends and family, both in person and in her virtual community. An avid reader, she immersed herself in the world of literature. Natasha was an ardent advocate for the underdog, dedicating her efforts to equity and fairness in all her pursuits.
She leaves behind a cherished legacy embraced by her beloved family: husband Mark, children Lena (11) and Makai (8), brother Hershel, sister-in-law Julie, and nephews Krish and Aary. Her parents, Asha (Sam) and Hiran (Lizzy), were integral parts of her life, each contributing to the extraordinary spirit she embodied. In addition, her extended family, including loving aunts, uncles, and cousins, played pivotal roles in shaping the rich tapestry of her life.
Natasha's friendships stood as a testament to her generous spirit and genuine care for others. Her friends were not just companions but her chosen family, each holding a special place in her heart, forging bonds that transcended mere friendship.
As a heartfelt tribute to Natasha, we kindly request that you play "Adore" by Prince on your own time—a song that beautifully encapsulates the enduring beauty and love she brought into our lives.
Friends are invited to gather at the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa on Friday, February 9th, after 12noon. A celebration of Natasha's Life will be held at 1 p.m. followed by a reception in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Natasha's name to the Canadian Children's Literacy Foundation.
As we bid farewell to her physical presence, let us carry forward her legacy of love, kindness, and joy. Though she may be absent in body, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.
Digital Guestbook
Utamika Cummings
Angela & Greg McNaughton
We met Natasha from being university friends with her brother Hersh and every encounter was met with such a huge smile and kindness like we had been friends for years! Only a special soul can make a lasting impression like that! Rest well Natasha
Christine white
Dear Natasha I am still struggling to accept that I will no longer see you book reviews, or receive your messages about a book you recommended. Thank you for the light that you brought to every conversation and to everyone you came in contact with. I will truly miss you.
Jasmine
Natasha, we met online over our love of books. You were one of the first people I talked to and made me feel welcomed in a space I was brand new to. When I published my own book, you supported me, loved on my art, and made me feel amazing. I send my sincerest condolences to your family because a true, genuine, funny, warm, and kind person in the world has passed on to her next journey. Rest easy, friend. You will be missed and will forever live in our hearts 🙏🏾
MGen Simon Bernard, Chief of Staff, CJOC
Mark, Lena, Makai, Anderson Family and Perera Family,
I'm truly sorry for your devastating loss. Natasha's sudden departure is a heartbreaking tragedy.
Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
I listened to “Adore” a few times last night and could only imagine what Natasha meant to husband Mark, children Lena and Makai, brother Hershel, sister-in-law Julie, nephews Krish and Aary, her parents Asha and Hiran and the extended family.
In the midst of this profound grief, may you all find solace in the enduring legacy of Natasha’s love, kindness, and joy.
Her spirit woven into the fabric of your family will undoubtedly live on, offering comfort and inspiration.
Please accept my deepest condolences to you, your friends and families during this incredibly challenging time.
Hayley Simmons
Natasha, you were the kindest, most supportive, genuine person I've met through the bookstagram community. I am so grateful to have been able to meet you to talk books over brunch and have this shared connection with you. Our friendship was brief and yet, you've left a lasting impression on me and I will miss you dearly. I will think of you anytime I read a book that you recommended to me and anytime I read one that I know you would have loved too. Keeping your family in my thoughts. Rest in peace Tash 🕊
Kerreena Bos
Although it’s been a couple years since I’ve seen your beautiful face, I will still miss you. You were my client for so long. I met your family, we shared so many wonderful moments, we laughed, we cried. Rest in peace.
Nenye
My darling friend, it breaks my heart that you are no longer with us in this physical realm.
You meant so much to me, and I take some solace in knowing that I had the opportunity to tell you how much you impacted me. It was a privilege to have known you, to share laughs, and to trade stories about our lives.
My prayers and deepest condolences are with your family. I will miss you dearly, Tash but I will carry you in my heart forever. 💜
May the lights guide you home.
Allison
Our Bookstagram community is heartbroken, Natasha will be missed, prayers for her husband, children and extended family and friends.
Diane Ford
My condolences to Natasha's family . My heart goes out to you for the sudden loss of Natasha. Natasha was a very nice person and I liked talking with her over the years at work. She will be missed. Rest in peace.
As my mind struggle with the fact you are no longer here with us in body, my heart is beyond grateful that in this lifetime I had the opportunity to meet someone like you. Genuinely caring, emphatic, kind, loving and passionate about life, love, family and friendships. You loved hard Natasha and we saw you and loved you dearly in return. Our friendship was formed by our love for books and our favourite author in common. For those you have touched by your words and kindness from miles away and for those you held and loved near, we will miss you dearly my friend. Light keeper, Encourager, Well wisher, Counsellor, Confidant, Dreamer, Advocate, Poet, Author, Friend, Cousin, Niece, Daughter, Sister, Sister-in-law, Aunty, Fur mommy, Mommy, and Wife. For everything that you were and who you were to us we will miss you!
Thank you Mark, Lena and Makai for sharing Natasha with us.
We loved her and pray that even now your hearts will be comforted. Rest well Tash! Love Always!