Obituary of Ethirajulu Venugopal

In Loving Memory of
Ethirajulu Venugopal
March 7, 1976 – May 22, 2025

Ethirajulu Venugopal, 49, of Belle Mead, New Jersey, entered into God’s presence peacefully on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, surrounded by his loving family - wife Rosy and daughter Amy.

Born in Chengalput, on March 7, 1976, Ethirajulu was raised in Tambaram, India before immigrating to the United States in 2005. After a brief period working in San Antonio, Texas, he settled in Piscataway, New Jersey, in his own home.

Ethi was deeply passionate about learning and self-improvement. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Madras and a Master’s degree in Computer Applications from Bharathidasan University. Combining his expertise in business and technology, he forged an exceptional career, contributing meaningfully across various sectors.

His professional career included impactful roles with prestigious organizations such as USAA, Ernst & Young, and technical projects with the New York City Police Department. Known for his dedication and precision, Ethi’s colleagues admired his quiet leadership and thoughtful approach to overcoming challenges.

In 2012, Ethi joined Goldman Sachs, where he served for over a decade, ultimately earning the title of Vice President. Though proud of his achievements, he remained humble, always making time to support and uplift those around him.

Ethi met Freeda Roseline in 2004, a life-changing encounter that marked the beginning of a profound spiritual journey. He embraced the Christian faith through Freeda, and together became devoted members of the Asian Indian Christian Church (AICC) in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. Ethi was baptized in his home church in India and later confirmed at AICC, where he served as treasurer and actively contributed to local missions.

One of his most lasting legacies was founding the AICC Sports Outreach Program, which supports around 43 children across the globe — India and Myanmar. Combining his love for faith and fitness, Ethi mentored young people through this ministry. An avid sports enthusiast, he cherished volleyball, badminton, and cricket, proudly supporting his favorite team, the Chennai Super Kings.

Ethi found great joy in life’s journeys — both spiritual and literal. He had a passion for driving and exploring new places with his family, whether on road trips to Florida, Canada, or to the Jersey Shore, or international travels to Europe, Dubai, and Singapore. Some of his happiest memories were made on these adventures, sharing the experience with Freeda and their daughter, Amritha.

Above all, Ethi was a devoted family man. His bond with Amritha was profound and truly special. Not only was he her loving father, he was her buddy, her biggest fan, and her greatest encourager. Their connection was playful and deep — he would sing and dance with her around the house, support her love of dance, and never missed a chance to celebrate her achievements. Their connection was filled with joy, music, and dance. One of their most cherished moments together was the father-daughter dance at her Sweet 16, a memory the family holds close to their hearts. He beamed with pride when she was accepted to Rutgers University, celebrating her accomplishments with the same enthusiasm he brought to every part of his life.

Ethi’s love for his wife Freeda was steadfast and true. Their life together was defined by faith, partnership, and countless family moments filled with laughter, mutual respect and sacrifices until the end. He never missed a chance to spring pleasant surprises on her such as an attempt to make Fish curry when Freeda was pregnant along with the several variety rices, though he never cooked earlier or thereafter. His presence was a constant source of strength, and his love left an indelible mark on Freeda as it did on everyone who had associated with him.

Ethi is lovingly survived by his wife, Freeda Roseline Ethirajulu; daughter, Amritha Ethirajulu; brother, Pandurangan, and his wife Bandari Bai; mother-in-law, Grace George; sister-in-laws and their husbands — Regina & David, Gladys & Sekhar, Jean & Santhosh, Diana & Ravi; brother-in-law Samuel Rajakumar and his wife Nancy; nieces and their husbands — Shiny & Justraj, Chinny & Santhosh, Sasi & Raj, Sweety & Vimal; nieces Pinky, Smyrna, and Sanjana; nephew Benny; and grandchildren Janave, Janusri, and Joshua. He was predeceased by his sister, Amutha.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Ethi’s honor via his GoFundMe page [Link].

Ethi’s warmth, devotion, and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.