One fine day in New York City a guy met his sister, three years his senior, for drinks and dinner. They clinked their glasses — containing vodka martinis — and set off on a fabulous evening of discussing film, theatre, museums, Catholicism, and other shared interests. They encouraged each other in the area of writing: he with his screenplays, she with her research into her family’s history in India. They parted company on an upbeat note, looking forward to the next time.

Actually the guy was me, Tom Chacko; and my fellow martini connoisseur was my sister, Nina. My gratitude is profound that the fine days were many; each as uplifting as the one previous; sometimes joined by her friends — good company, all.

Each get-together with Nina was educational, too; stemming from her lifetime curiosity and love of reading. She usually praised my writing, but her criticism and questions were constructive and helpful. That made those days even finer.

Nina was known as dynamic and dedicated in her work as a Human Resources Director. Her talents built a resume covering, among other things, the Guggenheim Museum, Amnesty International and finally, SEIU 32 BJ. She was one of the most organized people you could imagine. Stamp collecting was one of her earliest hobbies. At a relatively young age, she became the family chronicler, surprising us with long-forgotten photos, postcards, and clippings. Her file folders at home would fill an office.

She remained a firm believer in the Franklin Planner — which yes, involves handwriting! Her prolific daily notes not only kept the positive memories fresh, but aided her in handling people who, as she put it, “revised history” or “suffered from convenient memory lapses.” Her planner was as heavy as an antique hardcover from the Strand!

Nina attended Vassar College and The New School, but forged her own path forward in the face of harsh criticism and deep uncertainty. New York was not only her birthplace, but her lifelong home. (Please note: that’s the West Side, particularly her beloved Chelsea.) She remained single and steadfastly maintained her privacy. Along with a dignified reserve, her reassuring voice nurtured several friendships for over 50 years. You good people know who you are!

After three years of a happy retirement, Nina left us on the 25th of July to move to her place in Heaven. It’s almost redundant to say how much she’ll be missed. But those who will include Yours Truly (who cherishes those dinners) and his wife Christianne. Then there’s the Minnesota branch of the family: our brother Eapen, his wife Barbara, their children Christopher and Rachel, and Rachel’s husband Brad. Not to mention the many relatives in India with whom she kept in touch (and who enjoyed her skills as a family historian).

Perhaps you might consider, if you’d like, a donation in Nina’s honor to the American Cancer Society. She was also a supporter of The Carter Center and the Indo-American Arts Council.

“I Love NY” was a way of life for Nina. So think of her whenever you take in a museum or see a play — on or off-Broadway. Enjoy your favorite restaurant and while you’re at it, hoist a cocktail to her. She’ll be glad you did!

Dear Nina, thank you for being!