George Joseph Bens – Forever Remembered

1954-2025

Retired Senior Manager, Kerala Gramin Bank

Formative Years

Born on February 14, 1954, in Kodikkulam, Mylacompu-Thodupuzha, as the second son of Mr. Joseph VK (Appichi) and Mrs. Rosakutty (Amminji). Brother to Adv. Sunny Joseph MLA, Mr. Innocent Joseph, Mr. Isal Joseph, Mrs. Shelly Kuttiyachan, Mrs. Shiny Thankachan, Mr. Shaji VJ, Adv. Joshy Jose, and Mrs. Sheeba Benny.

*Sunny Joseph and George Joseph with their maternal uncle,* *Mr. John Mundakkamattam (Kunjichayi)*

Migration to Malabar

He began his schooling at Mylacompu in Idukki, then part of the Travancore region. At the age of nine, his family migrated from Travancore to Malabar, settling in Puravayal, Kannur. Like many families of that time, they took to farming as a way of life. It was in Malabar that he continued his education, attending the Vayathur and later the Kiliyanthara schools.

Following in the footsteps of his elder brother, he joined Newman College, Thodupuzha, for his pre-degree studies.

*A moment from 1964: altar boys with the Vicar of Puravayal church Fr. John Arackathottam. Among them are George Joseph (2nd from left, bottom row) and Sunny Joseph (4th from left, bottom row).*

*George Joseph with Appichi, Amminji, and siblings.*

Career

After completing his pre-degree, his first job was as a conductor on the Karshakan bus. Later, he joined the Aralam Farm, where he worked for the development of the area, despite the difficult and often unreasonable working conditions.

Subsequently, he cleared his bank interviews and began his banking career as a clerk at North Malabar Gramin Bank. His compassion and expertise helped many common people who approached the bank with their varied queries and needs.

*Addressing the gathering at the inauguration of the KGB Perumbavoor Branch*

Family

Married to Dr. Dolly George in 1982, they built their life and home in Thalassery.

Blessed with two children, Ashish and Anjali, their Pappa was the cornerstone of a stable home – a unique blend of resilience, discipline, and unconditional love and support.

Ashish is a gynecologist and is married to Dr. Anitta; they are blessed with three children: Evan, Teza, and Juan. Anjali is a dentist and is married to Col. Jithin Thomas; they are blessed with two children, Ethan and Michele.

Retired Life

A humble career that began as a clerk spanned over 36 years, culminating in his retirement in 2014 as a Senior Manager of Kerala Gramin Bank.

His retired life stands as a reflection of a journey completed with integrity and commitment. This new chapter of his life was shaped by choice rather than obligation. He started spending more time reading, gardening, and going on family trips, and also found time to catch up with his dear friends. Above all, he was a doting grandfather who regularly attended PTA meetings, annual day programmes, and anything and everything associated with his grandchildren.

Highlights from the journey through Singapore and Malaysia

Interests

Anyone who knew Pappa was well aware of his love for automobiles. His cars were always the neatest and tidies – comparable to those in a showroom.

He was a voracious reader with knowledge of almost everything under the sun. Long before Google and the internet became part of our lives, he was our one-stop solution for any and all doubts.

Pappa loved traveling and adventure. He would thoroughly study the places to be visited and, many a time, proved to be a better guide than even the most seasoned ones.

Above all, Pappa was an exceptional grandfather. His love for his grandchildren was beyond words. He ensured that morning walks and evening household chores with the children were always fun-filled and educational at the same time. He taught them cycling, took them to parks and beaches, reviewed their homework, and often acted as the mediator in their little disagreements.

The lockdown days deserve special mention, when the children were with their Pappa and Mummy. The various activities invented and executed by Pappa kept the children away from screens and boredom.

Time well spent during the lockdown.

*Mr. George and Dr. Dolly with their grandchildren*

All our lives were wired around each other, and the comfort and happiness it gave us were unmatched.

His passing came suddenly and without warning, leaving our hearts unprepared and our home filled with an unexpected silence. The morning of 9 February 2025 felt unreal, as if time had paused in disbelief and the world around us had changed in an instant. Though he left us too soon, the love, values, and memories he gave us remain deeply etched in our lives, guiding us even in his absence.

A Year Since | 09 February 2025

With hearts filled with love and remembrance, we pause to honour the memory of our beloved Pappa, who left us one year ago. Though time has passed, his presence continues to live on in our lives; in the values he taught us, the love he gave us, and the countless memories we hold dear. He was our guide, our strength, and our greatest support, and his absence is deeply felt every day

NIHITHA HARI KOOLOTH

While reading this, I was reminded of the person who used to come to our school to pick up and drop off his grandchildren. He was always very humble towards the teachers and deeply concerned about the children. No matter the occasion, he would be there, seated in the first row, showing his constant support and involvement.
I still fondly remember the days of online classes when he would sit beside Juaan during my class when he was in first standard. His presence always reflected his love and dedication.
His demise has truly come as a great shock to all of us. May his departed soul rest in peace. 💐
Nidhin Valsan

Some people don’t just live, they leave an aura behind them. For me, that aura was George Joseph Benz. Like Ashish, he was my Pappa too.
Ashish Benz is my best friend since college days, partner in many crimes(😉).I had the privilege of knowing his father not merely as a parent, but as a personality. He was a presence that filled every room, every discussion, every talk, without ever trying to dominate it.
From our college days, Ashish and I shared countless memories and still we talk and meet frequently. Some of my fondest were the visits to his home. I loved eating delicious non veg food from Ashish’s home. And with a smile Pappa comes and sits near and and feeds me saying “Valsaa eat more. “Every time we left their house and sat in the car, I would begin the same conversation — praising his father’s charisma, his composure, his quiet strength. I would tease Ashish mercilessly, telling him he hadn’t inherited even ten percent of his father’s aura. Ashish would laugh, accustomed to my admiration, and say many of his friends felt the same way.
What made Pappa truly special was not just his knowledge, though speaking to him was always enriching; but the warmth behind it. Even in the most serious discussions, there was a gentle smile on his face. He carried wisdom lightly. He spoke with conviction, yet never with harshness. Authority never came from position; it came from character.
I watched how his grandchildren Jojo, Anna, Jose listened to him. Not out of fear. Not out of obligation. But out of love and respect. He didn’t command silence; he earned it. And that is rare.
I used to tell Ashish, half joking and half serious, that I was jealous of him jealous only because he had such a father. And I meant it. Today, I realize what I miss is not just the conversations. I miss seeing him seated calmly, miss that reassuring smile, miss the feeling of being in the presence of someone whose dignity was effortless. I miss cherishing that aura.
Some men build wealth. Some build status. But a rare few build legacy quietly, gracefully, through love and reason.
Pappa was one of them.
And I will always remain grateful that life allowed me to witness his greatness up close.
Dr.Jose A V

In Loving Memory of our beloved Bens

Bens lived a deeply meaningful life — a life guided by noble purpose. Every moment of his journey was marked by selfless care for those around him. Kind-hearted and empathetic, he was an admirable human being, loved and respected by family and society alike.
Hardworking, ever-smiling, and always ready to extend a helping hand, Bens touched many lives in quiet but lasting ways. He was someone who constantly encouraged and acknowledged me in my career.
We spent countless hours in meaningful conversations — on state and national politics, banking and finance, subtle human relationships around us and much more.
Ours was not merely a relationship of brothers-in-law; we were truly “brothers in love”.
Our travels together remain unforgettable — the Jerusalem pilgrimage, the North-East journey, and the Coorg trip — each thoughtfully planned and joyfully lived.
It is a reality we must accept that Bens is no longer physically with us. Yet the years of love and warmth we shared will always be cherished by Elsy and me and our family members.
PRANAAM BENS, You have completed a worthy journey.
Rajan KV

Geoge Joseph , Retired Senior Manager to Kerala Grameena Bank( Former North Malabar Gramin Bank ) was known by his pet name Bens among his colleague friends like me. My memories with him go back to 23rd February 1981 ( Bens was February 1954 born ) , as I joined North Malabar Gramin Bank , Kartikulam Branch at Wayanad , as Probationary Officer , where Bens had been working as Field Assistant . From Day One onwards , his decent and well-mannered nature , considerate and caring behaviour, ever smiling face , and his capability in office works with knowledge and precision , his willingness to help others, and his artistic handwriting genuinely impressed me and he was like a senior loving brother to me . He guided me in bank works , enabling me to evolve as a good officer…and in later years , an excellent family friend too , knowing each other regarding every development of our family / personal and official lives with regular mutual communications .

My memories with him if written will go to volumes ….My visit to Iritty hospital years back to visit his mother hospitalised there , his enthusiastic description to his family members about my Kalarippayattu skills he had noticed during our stay at Kartikulam , his evening visit and playing volleyball at Paalvelicham court near Kartikulam , his marriage with Dr Dolly Joseph a real match to him in qualities as above , his children , my interactions with Little Ashish during my visits to his residence at Tellicherry , making little Ashish to somersault ,secure in my hands , which he enjoyed ….Memories of many such occasions wave into my heart, with the sad reality that Bens, a soothing presence for all those with whom he comes into contact, is with us in such memories only now …

His sudden and shocking departure was unbearable to me . Just one month before his sad demise he had called me . Both of us had worked at NMGB , Peratta Branch as Managers in different tenures and one Sri. Thankachan , merchant at Peratta had invited us for the marriage of his son . I attended the marriage with Bens travelling the pretty long distance from Tellicherry , in his Nexon Car enjoying his chat on different subjects and his perfect driving . He said the Benz car Ashish gifted honouring his name Bens ,is disposed and he has chosen the Nexon now.
It was such a wonderful day spending hours with dear Bens , I never knew then, that destiny had in store , such a shocking experience for me and all those who loved Bens.

Also, the Christmas prior to his departure was a special and memorable one to me … I had Christmas cake and wine with my eldest son Rohith , served by the caring hands of Dr Dolly , his wife , at his residence at Tellicherry.
Also in that Christmas season , Bens and myself spent some happy time together at the residence of his sister where they ( the Self Help Group members ) were celebrating the Christmas Carol , wherein Bens and myself spoke and in the related lucky draw, Bens was the winner .

I greatly miss the occasional calls and comfortable conversations with Bens. The departure of dear Bens is a loss not only to his family , but also to many many who had interacted with him at least once.

Such a Noble Soul indeed finds a deserving place now at the abode of GOD ALMIGHTY , as a dear inmate to HIM also …

Loving Salutations to the memories of dear, dear Bens ..

Rajan KV ,
Retd . Senior Manager,
Kerala Grameena Bank .
Ph. 9447428711
Email: rajan.kv05@gmail.com
🙏🏻🩷🩷🩷🙏🏻
Rajan KV

Dear Ashish ,
Thank you for sharing .You have done it great …and Bens was having a thousand toungues as he mentioned your love and activities with him .. and your special attention and consideration minutely suiting his wishes ….

Stay Blessed dear …

As I am not a net expert I could not post the comments in the link you sent ..

I am forwarding this in your what’s app …
Please incorporate it also .

Regards to Dr Dolly and all family members .

Rajan

🙏🏻🩷🩷🩷🙏🏻
Basil Mathew

It is difficult to put into words what Benz Uncle meant to me over the last twenty years. For me, he was more than just my close friend’s father — he was a constant presence, a guiding warmth, and for four wonderful years, a cherished neighbour.

As a neighbour, he wasn’t just someone living next door; he was someone who made the whole street feel like family. His doors — and his heart — were always open. Whether it was a casual evening chat or sharing a cup of tea, his presence made ordinary days special.

He was a true car enthusiast. Conversations about engines, models, road trips, and that unmistakable smell of a new car would light up his face. His passion was infectious — even those who knew little about cars found themselves drawn into his stories and excitement. He encouraged my wife Mary to learn driving and be self sufficient. Now she is an awsome driver.

But beyond hobbies, what truly defined him was his devotion to family. He was a loving husband, whose quiet strength and partnership were evident in every interaction. As a grandfather, he was extraordinary. Because of him, my friend could dedicate long hours to serving patients as a doctor, knowing his home and his three children were wrapped in love, discipline, and laughter. That kind of support is not common — it is selfless, steady, and deeply generous.

He was also a reader — curious about the world, always learning, always reflecting. And of course, he was a comedian in his own beautiful way. His humour was effortless. He could dissolve tension with a single remark and turn any gathering into a space of laughter.

Above all, he radiated positivity. Even in difficult moments, he chose optimism. He had that rare energy that lifted people simply by being present.

Twenty years of knowing him feels like a blessing. Four years of living beside him feels like a privilege. His legacy lives on — in the values he instilled, in the family he nurtured, and in the countless memories he gifted us.

He will always be remembered with gratitude, admiration, and a smile.

Dr Basil Mathew
Mary Basil

Some people come into our lives only for a brief moment, yet that is enough for them to leave a lasting impression. Ben’s uncle was one such person, and I consider myself truly fortunate to have known him.

Being new to a place often means being guarded and stepping out of your comfort zone. But when I met him for the first time, there was an immediate sense of familiarity. Speaking with him felt effortless from day one. The two words that best describe him, from my perspective, are kind and positive — and he embodied both so completely.

I had immense respect for his generosity, his unwavering dedication to his grandchildren, the lengths he would go to support his children, and the beautiful bond he shared with Dolly aunty. Their chemistry was something truly special. He was someone others could look up to and be inspired by.

When I scrolled through the tribute page and read about his childhood, his migration to Kannur, and his years working at the bank, none of it felt unfamiliar. He had narrated these chapters of his life so vividly, turning them into colorful stories that stayed with us. I still smile thinking about the many stories he shared — especially about teaching Dolly aunty how to drive, encouraging Anitta to confidently take the wheel, and even offering to support me in my own journey.

He is deeply missed with every passing day. But in the love, strength, and unity of his family, his legacy lives on beautifully.

Mary Basil
Cyril Cyriac & Mrudula Cyril

It has been a year since Benz Uncle left this world, yet his presence still feels close to our hearts. He was not just my friend Ashish’s father; he was a father figure to many of us. Whenever we knocked on his door, it opened not just to a house, but to warmth and unconditional acceptance. He welcomed us with open arms and a generous heart, making us feel that we truly belonged.

Uncle spoke in a way that made us feel completely comfortable in his home. His life reflected humility and grace.

His spirit continues to guide, bless, and inspire Dolly Aunty and their children. I am sure the family now lives on in the love he gave and in the lives he shaped so beautifully.
Roy Varghese

Roy

Benzchettan always used to say that, a banker should always be a friend, philosopher and guide. Yes. He was real friend to me, philosopher to me and guide through out my life. He is one of the person who influenced me a lot to build my life, career and my family. Whenever I interacted with Benz Chettan during my young age, I used to sit with him and listened his dialogues with my family, which is filled with lot of examples, experiences, fun and stories. When I joined the bank, it was a proud to me to say that I am brother in law of George Joseph. The love and affection which I experienced because of the brand George Joseph, really speak about the personality, bonding and trust of my dear Aliyan. He was really a leader in all aspects who lead the team NNGB as a union leader.
Aliyan was instrumental in marriage. When I told him that, I know one girl working in SBT, he has immediately contacted Lysa’s parents and done everything to materialise my wish. I used to take his opinion whenever I take decisions like job change or taking higher responsibilities. He was everything for me and for Lysa and for my children. It was really a shock and loss for us. We miss you dear..
Dolly George

One year without Bens….. He has gone for ever…. The void he left behind is something I struggle to comprehend everyday. Bens was a great person. Good friend, Good son, Brother, Good Father, Caring Grandpa and above all he was an Incredible Partner for me. My heart is heavy, I lost a part of myslf, my best friend, my everything….. His excellence in career was inspiring, but it was nothing compared to the love and care showed to our family and others. He is deeply missed but his legacy of kindness, love and generosity will live on through us. He taught me resilience, love and gift of finding joy even in hard time. Though he is no longer, the spirit lives on in my heart reminding me to cherish every moment…,.. Rest in peace, My Love.., Fondly Remembered ❤️🙏🙏
Adv. Raju

സ്മരണകൾ .
ലക്ഷം മാനുഷരിൽ ലക്ഷണമൊത്തവർ ഒന്നോ രണ്ടോയെന്ന് പറയാറുണ്ട്.അത് നേരാണെന്നാണ് അനുഭവം.കാൽ നൂറ്റാണ്ടിലേറെയായിഅടുത്ത ബന്ധമായിരുന്നു ജോർജ്ജ്ജോസഫുമായി ഉണ്ടായിരുന്നത്.
ഏതാണ്ട് ഒരേസമയമാണ് ഞങ്ങൾ സ്ഥലം വാങ്ങി വീടെടുക്കാൻ ആരംഭിച്ചത്.പരിചയപ്പെട്ടത് മുതൽ അടുത്ത സുഹൃത്തുക്കളായി.
ഒന്നിച്ചുള്ള പ്രഭാത നടത്തത്തിൽ സംസാരിക്കാൻ വിഷയ ദാരിദ്ര്യം ഉണ്ടായിരുന്നില്ല.പ്രശാന്തമായ ഭാവം, വിചിന്തനം ചെയ്തുള്ള സംസാരം,സകല വിഷയങ്ങളിലും ഉണ്ടായിരുന്ന സാമാന്യ ജ്ഞാനം, മറ്റുള്ളവരെ കേൾക്കാനുള്ള ക്ഷമ ത, നല്ല നിരീക്ഷണപാടവം ഇതൊക്കെ ജോർജിൻ്റെ സ്വത്വ വിശേഷത്തിൻ്റെ ഭാഗമായിരുന്നു.മടിയെന്ന വാക്ക് ജോർജിൻ്റെ നിഘണ്ടുവിലില്ല.എപ്പോഴും കർമ്മനിരതൻ.മനസാ വാചാ കർമ്മണാ ആരോടും പിണങ്ങില്ല.ഒരു പണിമുടക്ക് ദിവസം കണ്ണൂരിലെ സ്വകാര്യ ആശുപത്രിയിലേക്ക് സ്വന്തം വണ്ടിയോടിച്ച് എന്നെ കൊണ്ടുപോയതും ക്ഷമയോടെ കാത്തിരുന്നതുമടക്കം വിസ്മരിക്കിനാവാത്ത ഒരുപാട് സന്ദർഭങ്ങൾ.
ഔദ്യോഗിക രംഗത്ത് വളരെ മികച്ച പ്രകടനം കാഴ്ച്ച വെച്ചിരുന്നു വെന്ന കാര്യം ഏവരും അംഗീകരിച്ചതാണ്.
വ്യക്തിപരമായി എനിക്ക് ഒരുപാട് സഹായം ചെയ്തു തന്നിട്ടുണ്ട്.ആകർഷകമായ വ്യക്തിത്വത്തിന് ഉടമയായ ജോർജ് ജോസഫ് എല്ലാ കാര്യങ്ങളിലും തൻ്റെതായ വ്യക്തിമുദ്ര പതിപ്പിച്ചു.സംസാരത്തിലും വണ്ടിയോടിക്കുന്നതിലും വണ്ടികൾ കഴുകി വൃത്തിയാക്കുന്നതിലും തോട്ടം നനക്കുന്നതിലും കുട്ടികളെ പരിപാലിക്കുന്നതിലും ഉപദേശിക്കുന്ന തിലും പഠിപ്പിക്കുന്നതിലും മാതൃകാരീതിയുണ്ടായിരുന്നു.ജോർജ്ജിന്റെ യഥാർത്ഥ മഹത്ത്വത്തെ വർണ്ണിക്കാൻ വക്കുകൾ മതിയാവുകയില്ല.
ആ വിയോഗം ഉണ്ടാക്കിയ നഷ്ടം
ഒട്ടും നികത്താനാവുന്നതല്ല.സന്തപ്തരായ കുടുംബാംഗങ്ങളോടൊപ്പം,
സ്മരണാഞ്ജലികൾ

Adv. Raju
Chungam
Eranholi
Thalssery