Obituary of Xeph Kalma

Xephiral (Xeph) Kalma (May 6, 1983 - June 6, 2020)

With immense sadness and broken hearts, our family shares that our sister and daughter Xeph Kalma passed away suddenly on June 6, 2020.  

Xeph will forever be remembered and deeply missed by her mother Eily Lordan Cowan; father Nataraj Chettiar; brother Alan Chettiar (Melissa); sister Jill Chettiar (David Cunningham); nieces Elabi, Layla and Lucy; nephew Naomhán; her extended family of cousins, aunts and uncles in Canada, Ireland, Mauritius and beyond; and her community of friends and loved ones in Toronto, New Brunswick and from around the world.  

Growing up in northern New Brunswick, Xeph was surrounded by the natural beauty of the maritime provinces, which left her with a love of solitary walks in forests and spending time near the water. She studied at St. Mary's University in Halifax, earning a Bachelor's in psychology and making many friends along the way.  After graduating, she moved to Korea to work as a teacher, a profession that she found rewarding and at which she excelled. On return to Canada, she lived in Vancouver and worked in video game development - a lifelong passion of hers - before moving to Toronto and continuing work in the telecommunications field.  No matter where she was, Xeph was quick to make new friends with her great smile and sense of humour. 

Xeph loved writing prose and poetry, and some of her work relaying her experiences as a trans woman was published in print and online. Xeph never shied away from calling out transphobia in its many guises, instances of patriarchy, racism or any injustice. She was a fierce friend to have in your corner, and often gave more than she could truly spare to help someone in need. 

Xeph's time was marked by great joy and great struggle, and tragically ended far, far too soon.  

In Xeph's memory, for those who would like to make expressions of sympathy we would request that donations be made in her name to SAINTS Rescue for senior animals (https://www.saintsrescue.ca/), or to the Trans Lifeline (https://www.translifeline.org/). These donations can be made using the Donations Tab on her home page.

Rest in peace Xeph, we love you so much. 

Please share your memories, photos and sentiments of Xeph's life here at her memorial web page.

Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc. 

Life Celebrations. Done Differently.