Winston Franklin Machado's Obituary
This page is to honor the life and legacy of Winston Machado. A man of deep attachment to his family, warm and enduring friendships, fondness for travel and music (preferably together), a brilliance that was spawned by a lifetime of intellectual curiosity, and an indomitable spirit.
His journey began in 1950 with his parents (Helen and Frank Machado) and brother (Melvin Machado) in Byculla, Bombay. A bright and affectionate child, he continually exceeded the high bar his parents set for him. Helen would proudly recount stories of how he was able to read before he turned 3, how he would be weighed down with all the books he received as accolades for acing each of his classes, all the way from elementary to high school. As he grew into a young man his intellect was only matched by his charisma. A much sought after emcee and toastmaster for weddings in India, he brought to every interaction what would become his trademark warmth and wit, allegory and alliteration, quips and quotations. And that aforementioned charm, while generously bestowed on all, was often more keenly directed towards the young ladies.
And one special young lady finally stole his heart. Loretta - his love, his strength, and wife of 46 years. Always steadfast in their care and commitment to each other, they complemented each other beautifully. The richness in their home was never defined by financial possessions, but by the abundance of love, laughter, generosity of spirit, and the ever-present strains of music. They raised two children – Monisha and Vikram – with the same wealth of love, learning, language, and melody.
His career spanned 35+ years across advertising, marketing, sales, and general management at some of Asia’s most iconic brands – O&M, Asian Paints, P&G, Gulf Air, The Times of India. As a leader he was often described as visionary, inspirational, and caring. Forever letting his teams shine as he provided a reflector for further growth, development, and glory.
When he was diagnosed with terminal cancer in October 2023, and given 3-6 months to live, he was resolute in his decision. He was not done with living, he was not done with travel, with time immersed in his beloved family, with seeing his grandsons grow. He fought long and hard and gave his family treasured time and memories. And on September 29, 2025, with the same determination he decided the time had come to cease the fight and to transition with peace and dignity.
The depth of loss his family feels is indescribable. The thought of never again hearing him belt out Fank Ifield, solve crossword puzzles with speed and alacrity, mold the English language to convey expressions of beauty and humor, or flash that dimpled smile, is often too much to bear. But as he often did, all these months, he provided the scaffolding and the strength to bear the loss that he knew would inevitably come. And he empowered his family to keep going, keep smiling, keep remembering. Winston loved a good scotch and in his honor, we raise a glass to the husband, the son, the father, the friend. Cheers to Winston as he travels onwards to seek out his Great Perhaps.
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