George, Dr. Vijayasekaran “Viji” – Fred H. McGrath & Son, Inc.

Dr. Vijayasekaran Daniel George of Chennai, India, and Bronxville, New York, was called home to rest on February 19^th, with the infinite love of his family surrounding him. Viji was an avid gardener, an Indian cook extraordinaire, a curator of diverse works of art, and an enthusiastic explorer of far corners of the globe. Above all, he was a proud father, grandfather, and husband. Viji’s presence was large, as is the void his absence leaves behind, but we take comfort in knowing that he is at peace in the arms of our Savior and that we will be reunited with him once again.

Viji was born on August 24^th, 1951, in Chennai, India, to George and Salome Devaprasad. As the youngest of five siblings growing up in India, his childhood was filled with simple pleasures – playing marbles, flying kites, and riding bikes until dark with friends in the streets of Chennai. In 1971, following in the footsteps of his older siblings, he emigrated to the United States. He was often fond of saying that while his heart was in America, his soul was in India.

Viji earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Concordia University, River Forest, IL, and a Doctorate in Psychology from Northern Illinois University. He accepted a position at Concordia College, Bronxville, NY, in 1979 where he would serve for over 35 years, as a Professor of Psychology, Dean of Students, Assistant to the President, Director of the Good Shepherd Center for the Family, and finally as President for 16 years. It was at Concordia that he met his wife, Janet, where together they found a network of colleagues and students that would become lifelong friends. In retirement, Viji served on several boards, including Thrivent Financial and The Mary Hoch Center for Reconciliation.

Viji adored his family. He was a proud and devoted father to his daughters, Sarah and Emilie, and a spirited companion to Janet in all parts of life, both big and small. He loved taking phone calls from his girls, attending soccer games and recitals, and hearing the assorted details of everyone’s day, even if mundane. He cherished opportunities to be close with his siblings and to gather his extended family for any occasion that might merit a reunion.

His fierce intellect, quick wit, and profound affection for those he leaves behind will be deeply missed. Viji is survived by his wife Janet George, his daughter Sarah George (Timothy Athans) and grandchildren Eleanor and Henry, and his daughter Dr. Emilie George (Dr. Joshua Gilman) and three siblings, Dr. Padmini Charles, Dr. Chandran George, and Rani Dhanarajan.

Condolences(10)

Greg and Edith Walton says
February 22, 2025 at 5:12 pm

Our hearts and prayers are with you all as you celebrate a beloved servant of God. May the peace of Jesus fill you all with comfort and hope.
Steven Hicks says
February 22, 2025 at 7:38 pm

Be in the Lordd arms our friend and leader. Blessings to Janet and the rest of the family.
Dr. David Zersen says
February 22, 2025 at 10:50 pm

On behalf of the Retired Concordia University Presidents Society, I extend our condolences to the family and the former colleagues at Concordia College in Bronxville, N.Y. Dr. George, known to all of us as “Viji”, was a beloved leader in the Concordia University System and in the larger church.
Rebecca Cruz says
February 23, 2025 at 3:23 pm

Thank you for being my professor and all the amazing things you did for Concordia. May you be in peace with our Lord. Many prayers for family 🙏💖
Evelyn Cea says
February 23, 2025 at 3:59 pm

So blessed to have you as my President and Friend, Viji and you will be watching over your loved ones for all eternity!!! (I will be visiting with you often as you will be resting beside my Stephen!!!)
Chicha akka says
February 23, 2025 at 8:10 pm

Dear Padmini, CHANDRAN, Rani
My heartfelt condolences to you all Tough when we lose a sibling May God comfort you all May he rest peace
Christine Fix says
February 25, 2025 at 12:45 pm

Heartfelt condolences to “Viiji”s” wife and family. He was a much admired presence in the community and did amazing work at Concordia College. A great loss to all.
Mark Blanco says
February 25, 2025 at 2:35 pm

Rest well, rest well, Beloved, sweetly sleeping,
That I may cease from further weeping,
And let me, too, rest well.
The grave that is prepared for Thee,
And holds no further pain for me,
Doth open heaven to me,
and close the gates of Hell.

~ JS Bach, St. John Passion, final chorus
Anita Clark says
March 2, 2025 at 8:42 pm

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18.

We are saddened to hear this news and wish we could be there.

God bless Viji and his memory. God give strength and comfort to his family.
patricia culleton says
March 13, 2025 at 11:58 am

I was deeply saddened to read of the passing of Viji. I decided to return to college for a few courses (after dropping out earlier) when my sons entered elementary school. I credit my Psychology 1 course, taught by Vigi, for motivating me to continue on to a degree. I loved how he made the students really think (for themselves) and defend their ideas. The extraordinary team of Dr. Bob Hennig, Dr. David Jacobsen, and, of course, Dr. Viji George were experts:: deep expertise in their fields, knowledgeable of what makes for a exemplary college student, faculty, and overall campus life, not to mention their spirituality, and kindness – true examples for all. I am grateful for the role Viji played in my life as a professor, as a role model and as a friend. I’m sending positive thoughts and prayers to Janet and family with my sincere sympathies on the loss of Viji… Patty Noschese Culleton

George, Dr. Vijayasekaran “Viji” August 24, 1951 - February 19, 2025

Condolences(10)

Greg and Edith Walton says

Steven Hicks says

Dr. David Zersen says

Rebecca Cruz says

Evelyn Cea says

Chicha akka says

Christine Fix says

Mark Blanco says

Anita Clark says

patricia culleton says

Leave a Condolence

Location