Raj Nigam Obituary (1944 - 2022)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Raj Nigam of Pennington, NJ on January 9, 2022 at the age of 77. But it is with joy and privilege that we celebrate his life, a life defined by generosity and community where, above all, Raj served as a connector: nurturing relationships, bringing people together, mentoring others, and documenting family history. Raj was born in Lucknow, India. He was the middle child of three, and the son of a police chief and the family matriarch. Growing up, Raj basked in the stability of his family's love, which included many aunts, uncles and cousins. In 1965, Raj graduated as the gold medalist (top student) in the Pioneer Batch at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, receiving the award from then-President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. He left home for the University of California, Berkeley, where he received a PhD in Operations Research, and fell in love with a young woman from Montana named Elaine Steiger. This farmgirl became his beloved wife, and they shared 54 years together. Raj and Elaine made their home in Pennington NJ, raising two children, Kamal and Rekha, playing tennis, gardening, and gathering with friends and family. A long-time member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, Raj served in many roles including President, Worship Associate, Pastoral Associate and Sunday school teacher. He wrote and delivered sermons on topics ranging from Hinduism, forgiveness, kindness, and social justice. Professionally Raj applied mathematics to business problems first at RCA and then Merrill Lynch, his career culminating as Chief Scientist, a title that was retired upon his retirement. In all challenges, Raj emphasized teamwork, and he led his group to win the prestigious Franz Edelman award, considered the "World Series" in Operations Research. Raj delighted in ping pong tournaments, mathematical puzzles, and pranks. He read science fiction, developed a sophisticated photography hobby, told wonderful stories, and loved generously. He organized reunions for classmates and family, led charitable projects, and tutored teens locally and in India by Zoom. At the birth of each grandchild, he wrote them a letter beginning with: Welcome to fun, laughter, love, warmth, support, and in due time, "noblesse oblige" (to whom much is given, much is expected). He gave us, and everyone he touched, so much. Raj was predeceased by his parents, Brij Naraian and Bimla Rosa, and his siblings, Shail and Anant. He leaves behind his wife Elaine, his children Kamal (Milena) and Rekha (Larry), and his grandchildren Oscar, Aiya, Simon, and Macy. A memorial service will be planned for the spring. Arrangements are under the respectful care and direction of Funeral Director: Christine Cuoco of Ruby Memorial. Family & Friends may offer prayers and condolences at: www.rubymemorialhome.com