Vijay Kumar Ralhan
Vijay Kumar Ralhan of Chattanooga passed away peacefully at his home on September 5, 2024, surrounded by family and dear friends.
Vijay was born in Dasuya, Punjab, India on Sept. 15, 1941.
He was graduated from Punjab Engineering College in Chandigarh, where he received a master's degree and remained as a professor.
He came to America to study at Auburn University, earning a second master's degree. He was a member of the honor society Phi Beta Kappa.
In 1977 he joined the duPont Company in Chattanooga as a research engineer. He earned the designation of professional engineer. He joined Signal Knitting Mills as a production manager, becoming vice president after two years.
In 1982, he became a naturalized American citizen. He taught evening classes in Math and Engineering at UTC and Chattanooga State College for several years.
In 1993, he started a textile company, Apollo Knitwear, in Lafayette, Ga. His secretary at Signal Knitting Mills since 1979, Doris Bethune, became his assistant in the new business.
He expanded his business opening Universal Apparel, with mills in Lebanon, Kentucky, and Clark Range, Tennessee. Knitwear for major companies were produced there: Bugle Boy, Macys, Reebok, Aeropostale.
He kept his mills open in America, even when other textile mills moved overseas.
Vijay had an amazing work ethic and was successful as a businessman. He still went to his office daily until five months before his death.
He was an early member of the India Association, serving as an officer and being actively involved.
Vijay was a spiritual man having grown up in a devout Hindu family. He loved his family, and was a loving and supportive father and grandfather. He is known by many as a friend and mentor and was a kind and caring man with a great sense of humor. He had a big heart for other people. He will be missed by many people.
He is survived by Nancy Ralhan, daughters: Rita Bachman (Taylor), Anita Ralhan, grandsons: Carter Bachman and Tucker Bachman, brothers: Dr. Surinder Ralhan, Satish Ralhan, and many nieces and nephews.
Vijay kept close friendships: Sushan Anand, Dr. Anil Bhatia, Douge Hightshue, Whitney Drayer, Shannon Mitchell.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Dr, Narinder Ralhan, Vinod Ralhan, sisters, Usha Nanda, Savitri Khuller, and a beloved nephew, Romi Ralhan.
Our family expresses gratitude to Doris Bethune, loyal assistant for 46 years.
We appreciate the assistance of Sushan Anand and Sheila Boyington in planning the services.
Visitation will be on Monday, Sept. 9, from 4-8 p.m.
Prayers and Ceremony will be on Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 1-3 p.m.