With a heavy heart, we wanted to inform you about the passing of Arockiam Irudhayam Pillai, fondly known as Rocky, husband of Viji Mary Arockiam, father of Christina Arockiam and Benedicta Josephine Xavier, and grandfather of Susan, Jenna, and Ria, who entered eternal rest on September 20, 2025, at O’Connor Hospital in San Jose, California, surrounded by his devoted family.

His funeral service and mass will be held on Saturday, September 27th, 2025, at the Church of the Resurrection, located at 725 Cascade Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. The service will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and all family, friends, and loved ones are welcome to attend to pay their respects and celebrate his life.

Your contribution will honor and help Arockiam's family with medical, shipping to India, and funeral expenses and provide him with the farewell he deserves.

In 2007, Rocky moved to the United States, where he lived in Bakersfield and later San Jose, California. He found joy in walking, biking, reading, cooking, praying, and visiting churches. He cherished time spent with friends and extended family, embodying the virtues of humility, discipline, hospitality, and love. Elegant and stylish, yet profoundly simple, he lived a life of integrity and faith, caring for others with an open heart and a welcoming spirit.

He actively volunteered at numerous Tamil community events, consistently supporting cultural and festive celebrations. One of his most beloved roles was portraying Santa Claus during Christmas events, where he brought smiles and festive cheer to children and families alike. In addition, he played a key role in Tamil Manram’s major event, TVNO (Tamil Vetri Nadai Odu), contributing his time and energy to help ensure its smooth execution.

In his final weeks, Rocky bore illness with grace and resilience. Despite the challenges of heart and lung disease, he remained prayerful and cooperative, ever trusting in God’s plan. With family by his side, he peacefully returned to his Creator, completing a life of service, faith, and love.

We share this message with humble hearts, asking for your love, prayers, and support during this incredibly painful time.

Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and generosity.