Maria Khandagle

Maria de Lourdes Mendes Teles was born on March 25, 1947, in Rachol, Goa, India, to Filomena Teles and Miguel Xavier Mendes. From a young age, Maria exhibited a zest for life, a love for learning, and a deep sense of care for others.

She began her education at the Immaculate Girls High School in Panjim, Goa, where she excelled academically and built lifelong friendships. Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, she attended Dhempe College of Arts and Science in Panjim, where she nurtured her intellectual curiosity.

Maria's spiritual journey was transformative. In her family home, she studied the Bible with Pastor N.G. Mukerjee, and through these lessons, she found a new path in faith. On February 1, 1969, Maria made the life-changing decision to be baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church at Colva Beach, Goa, transitioning from Catholicism and dedicating her life to her newfound faith. 

In 1962, Maria met her future husband, Frederick Khandagle, sparking a love that would span decades. In December 1969, just two weeks before Christmas, Maria immigrated to the United States, embarking on a new chapter of her life. On June 20, 1971, Maria and Frederick were married in a beautiful ceremony at the Washington Sanitarium Church in Takoma Park, Maryland. Their union was one of love, mutual respect, and shared faith. 

Maria and Frederick were blessed with three children: Kenneth, Keith, and Kathryn.

Maria's professional life was diverse and fulfilling. She worked as a nursing aide at Kensington Gardens Nursing Home, showcasing her nurturing spirit. She later severed at the Indian Embassy, and ultimately found a long-term position at ComSat, which later became Lockheed Martin, in Bethesda, Maryland. Maria retired from her career to dedicate herself fully to her family, especially helping to care for and raise her six grandchildren, a role she cherished above all.

In October 2018, Maria and Frederick moved to live with their son, surrounded by the love and care of family. Maria's hobbies reflected her creative and vibrant personality. She enjoyed sewing, painting, gardening, and cooking, often using these talents to bring joy to those around her. She had a wonderful sense of humor, a love for laughter. and delighted in playing Make-a-Million with family and friends.

Maria's heart was full of joy when she got to meet her first great-grandson, Damian, less than a month before her passing. Seeing the new baby brought her immense happiness in her final days.

Maria's life was a testament to love, faith and resilience. She left an indelible mark on all who knew her, embodying warmth, kindness and a deep dedication to her family, friends. and faith.

 Maria is survived by her loving husband, Frederick; her son, Kenneth, his wife, Laura, and their sons, Mason (married to Amber, with their son, Damian) and Lukas; her son, Keith; her daughter, Kathryn, her husband Daniel, and their children, Karena, Kayla, Kadan, and Kamran; and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.