Kannan Thirunavukkarasu

Dr. Kannan Thirunavukkarasu, age 58, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026.

Born on May 26, 1967, Dr. Kannan lived a life rooted in humility, devotion, and service to others. An exceptional scientist, mentor, and collaborator, he had a distinguished scientific career in research areas that spanned multiple areas of research in bone, cartilage, arthritis, and immunology. He earned his Ph.D. at the University of Kansas, started his postdoctoral work at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and joined Eli Lilly more than 28 years ago, where he most recently held the position of Executive Director at Eli Lilly and Company. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly looking for medicines for various diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, fibrosis, and other immunological diseases, and he published his scientific work extensively. He was a friend to so many colleagues at his workplace and was known for his intellect, discipline, and quiet, significant contributions.

Beyond his professional life, Kannan was a pillar of the Tamil community. He served as President of the Tamil Sangam and was a long-time Tamil school teacher, passionately nurturing language, culture, and values in younger generations. He also dedicated his time as a volunteer for the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana. A mentor to many children and a guiding presence to families, he was admired for his wisdom, patience, and generosity.

Deeply spiritual, Kannan was a devoted follower of Lord Murugan and Lord Ayyappa, and an ardent admirer of Kirubanandha Variyar. He practiced and taught yoga for many years, embodying balance, calmness, and inner strength. He loved the outdoors, especially cycling, and approached life with a serene smile that never left his face. Known for his gentle nature, he was always calm and composed — a rare soul who brought peace wherever he went.
Above all, he was a loving husband and an exceptional father. He is survived by his beloved wife Raji, his sons Shreeram and Krishna, his mother, three sisters, and two brothers in India. His family was his greatest pride, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, values, and quiet strength.

Kannan was the kind of person whose presence brought light into every room — steady, warm, and selfless to his very core. His absence leaves a profound void, but his life remains an enduring source of inspiration to all who knew him.

Family, friends, and all who knew Kannan are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on May 7, 2026, from 2 PM to 4 PM at the Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary, located at 11411 N Michigan Rd, Carmel, Indiana. Following the visitation, a prayer service will be held at the same location from 4 PM.

He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the entire community.

Siva Siva Siva