RAJA GANGADHARAN The eternal optimist. Raja Gangadharan passed away on January 30, 2021 in Pahrump. He was 80 years old. Born in a small village in southern India in 1941, Raja developed a remarkable ability to persevere in spite of formidable obstacles at a young age after his father passed away prematurely. He made it his ultimate goal to become a scientist and move to the U.S.A. despite the fact that he was too poor to afford a T-shirt. In 1968, he achieved that dream when he enrolled at Southern Illinois University with a degree in Chemistry. One year later he met Patty who would soon become his wife. His adventures in Pahrump began in 1995 where he continued his entrepreneurial ambitions from California. Raja's unwavering drive led to the creation of many businesses including: K-7 Pizza & Lounge, D & D manufacturing, and K-7 Bed & Breakfast. Most recently, Raja set his mind on starting a nano-brewery which kept him engaged until his passing. Raja's everlasting persistence in life is embodied in the 'Press On' quote by Calvin Coolidgethe 30th U.S. President. People are encouraged to read this and always remember that "persistence and determination alone are omnipotent." Raja is survived by his wife, Patty Gangadharan and their two children, Denise and Dhevan; son-in-law, Elliot Krop and his granddaughters Adia, Ayla, Adina, and Alisa; brothers, Bagyam, Jegan, Sathasivam. He was predeceased by his grandson, Asher; his parents, Lakshmanaperumal and Lakshmi; his brother, Gurusamy; sister, Janaki. A private ceremony took place on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021. There will be a celebration of his life at a future date. As a lover of conversation and beer, friends of Raja are encouraged to enjoy a beer in remembrance of him!