Karpen Reggie Vythilengam, aged 82, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family on September 18, 2025.
Born in the village of Hampshire, Berbice, Guyana, to the late Eddie Karpen and Marie Karpen. He was also lovingly raised by his godmother, Racheal Barry, known as Nenen.
In 1968, Karpen married the love of his life, Claris Vythilengam, and together they raised three children: Camille, Vickey, and Anita. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to seven cherished grandchildren: Michael, Shabana, Shazena, Rashad, Natalia, Jenna, and Aaliyah. He was also the father-in-law of Afzal, Neil, and Jennifer.
Karpen was the beloved brother of eight brothers and three sisters: the late Solomon, Harry, Ivan, Ned, Saul, Harvey, Jorge, Edit, and Katherin, and is survived by his siblings Ruben and Angelay. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who were blessed to know him.
Karpen was a man of routine and great pride, with a passion for the simple joys of life. He found immense satisfaction in gardening, often preparing for the spring season with love and care for his vegetables. A frequent visitor to Home Depot and local supermarkets, he had an ability to stock up on just the right supplies—always with extra cleaning tools and toiletries on hand. Whether it was a brush, a tool, or anything else, Karpen was sure to have it, and his family will dearly miss his preparation and foresight.
Karpen was meticulous, whether it was with the cleanliness of his clothes or the crispness of his bed sheets, which he ensured were always solid-colored and properly placed. His attention to detail and the small comforts of life were a testament to his character.
His favorite food was dried fish with dhal and rice, flavorful curries, stews, and his pork, or “piggy”, dishes. He loved to cook his cook-up rice, and his grandkids especially loved his soup.
Karpen’s dedication to his family was unwavering. He would often check the house late at night, ensuring that doors were locked and windows secure, and making sure his loved ones were safe and sound. His love and protection knew no bounds, and he will be remembered for his constant care.
A teacher by profession, Karpen was an influential figure in his community. He graduated from the Berbice Educational Institute, where he trained to become a teacher. He spent most of his life in the village of Kwakwani, located on the Upper Berbice River, where he taught generations of children. Karpen was deeply respected in his community and was affectionately known as “Mr. Karpen” by his students, many of whom still cherish their memories of him.
Karpen’s reputation as a firm but fair educator remains etched in the memories of many. He was known for his strict yet caring nature, always pushing his students to achieve their best, whether in reading, spelling, or times tables. He would even travel along the Berbice River to teach Amerindian children, ensuring that education reached every corner of the community.
One of his former students, Jocelyn Morain, shared a beautiful tribute, remembering Karpen’s impact on their lives: “Many of us have stories about Karps that we can tell. He was made for the time when he taught in Kwakwani Primary School. He implored us to read, learn our times tables, and to focus on what he meant when he left us his words: 'A time will come when you must have a CAG-ADGE.' ‘We had to take notes’ He was a teacher that made no distinction between Amerindian, East Indian, and Black, and he left a legacy that will last forever.”
Karpen leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, discipline, and dedication to his family and his community. He was a man who cared deeply for others, who believed in the power of education, and who took pride in the little things that brought joy to his life. His presence will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in the lives of those he touched.
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
-Psalm 73:26
Rest in Peace, Karpen Reggie Vythilengam. You will forever be in our hearts.
