Chaman Lal Malhotra

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chaman Lal Malhotra, 87. On February 13, 2025, Chaman passed peacefully and surrounded by family in Istanbul, Turkey from an unexpected illness while en route to India.

Chaman is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Aruna Malhotra; his children Neal Malhotra and Sonia Malhotra Evans (Tad Rodgers), his grandchildren Katherine Malhotra, Mackenzie Malhotra Evans (Sean Lally), Madeline Malhotra, and Brendan Evans; and countless nieces and nephews who adored him.

Chaman was born on August 6, 1937, the 6th of 8 children, in the small village of Jagraon, India. Of his three brothers, he was considered the troublemaker and rule-breaker. The first of his family to leave India, he boarded a ship at the age of 18 to attend the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where he graduated with a degree in geological engineering. In the late 1950s, Chaman began a 60+ year career in the petroleum industry, starting off as a roughneck on the oil field rigs and eventually rising through the ranks to become CEO and President of worldwide operations for a major air drilling company.

Chaman married Aruna in India in 1964, and they settled in Alberta, Canada to raise Neal and Sonia. In 1981, Chaman’s work brought them to Denver, Colorado where he lived until his passing. He took great pride in being an Indian, then a Canadian, and then an American citizen. He was often referred to as the only East Indian with a Texas accent.

Chaman was a passionate traveler, eagerly sharing his love for exploration with family and friends until the very end. Known as the life of the party, he had a knack for bringing people together in a way that no one else could. He loved eating Indian food twice a day, cups of chai filled less than halfway, little bites of someone else’s dessert, early morning workouts, countless naps, singing happy birthday, and above all, doting on his grandchildren, who were the true joy of his life.

Chaman touched the lives of many with his unwavering support, humor, generosity, and kindness. He was considered the second dad of many. His legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Since 1981, Aruna and Chaman have sponsored children through World Vision. In lieu of flowers, the Malhotra family asks that you consider making a donation to the World Vision Save the Children Fund.