Ramesh M. Kanojia

Bridgewater, NJ

Ramesh M. Kanojia, 89, of Bridgewater, N.J., passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at RWJ Hospital Somerset. Born in Mangrol, India, he first came to the U.S. in 1961, over a 45-day ship voyage from India. He was the first in his family to leave his native country to seek higher education in the U.S., later helping other family members to also achieve the American dream. He resided in Branchburg for 30 years before moving to Bridgewater 22 years ago.

Ramesh received his Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin. He worked as a Research Scientist for Johnson & Johnson for 38 years before his retirement. He received numerous accolades for his drug discovery research, including the prestigious Phillip B. Hofmann Award, and also had numerous patents under his name.

Ramesh enjoyed hiking, astronomy, and photography. He was an avid writer of poetry and in 2016, he published a book of his poetry in his native language of Gujarati. Ramesh loved Indian classical music and was an excellent singer. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending quality time with his family, especially going on trips with his wife and daughters.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Maniben and Maganlal Kanojia, two brothers, Pushker and Bhaskar Kanojia, and his sister, Bharati Parekh.

Surviving are his loving wife, Neela R. Dani Kanojia, two dear daughters, Preeti R. Kanojia of Jersey City, NJ; Amee R. Kanojia of Bridgewater, NJ; three brothers, Mukund, Bipin, and Girish Kanojia; one sister, Niru Lakhlani, their respective spouses, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Ramesh always kept a positive outlook in life and displayed a sense of humor throughout his numerous health challenges - he was known as a fighter and a true source of inspiration to many of his family and friends.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, from 10:30 am-12:00 pm at the Branchburg Funeral Home, 910 Rt. 202 South, Branchburg, NJ 08876.

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the charity of your choice.