Venkataramu (73), a food catering contractor and a resident of Gangothri Layout here, passed away following brief illness at his residence on Jan. 2.

He leaves behind his wife, one son, one daughter and a host of relatives and friends.

He was also a theatre artiste and had performed as a co-artiste in many mythological and social plays in his free time.

Last rites were performed at the foot of Chamundi Hill yesterday, according to family sources.