Mahesh Massand

Once aptly described as a “modern-day Renaissance man,” Mahesh Massand was an accomplished architect, poet, painter, photographer, and chef, as well as an entrepreneurial bed-and-breakfast owner and successful day trader. While such a combination of interests might seem unusual, Mahesh was always able to effortlessly juxtapose seemingly disparate fields, concepts, people, images or ideas to create something new.

Born in 1954 in Indore, India, Mahesh was the fifth youngest of six siblings.

The child of successful parents who migrated from Pakistan into India during the 1947 “partition” with nothing but their two children and the clothes on their back, he inherited their intelligence and work ethic. From early childhood his aptitude for the visual arts was apparent, and he earned two bachelor’s degrees — including a bachelor of architecture degree from the prestigious School of Architecture in Ahemdabad, India — and a master’s degree in architecture from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. 

After working with and learning from many renowned modern architects, Mahesh went on to design some beautiful structures around the world, as well as on Whidbey Island.

For the last 22 years Mahesh had made the West Coast his home, moving to Whidbey Island 16 years ago. There he created Gallitoire, an oasis in the woods of Langley, where his graceful home was often transformed into a bed-and-breakfast that became the secret get-away for celebrities and locals to enjoy his five-star Asian-fusion meals. On any given day, his adjoining meadow might be dotted with deer and rabbits, a gaggle of artist friends enjoying his freshly brewed chai, or hundreds of well-dressed people attending a wedding at the site.

It was from this fertile refuge that many creative endeavors sprang forth.

He penned numerous poems and recipes, and enjoyed painting. Most recently, his focus turned to still photography and Mahesh traveled throughout India capturing the faces of people, everyday objects and landscapes to rival the cover of National Geographic. His works were displayed at such places as the Seattle Art Museum and the University of Washington.

Mahesh may be remembered most fondly for his tender heart, humor, intensity, generosity, endearing playful disposition, warmth, creativity, passion and steadfast love of family and friends. Mahesh was truly one-of-a-kind and he will be deeply missed.

At the young age of 51, Mahesh passed away on July 12, 2006 after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Mahesh is survived by his 80 year-old mother who lived with him for the last 11 years; brother Sonny and sister-in-law Kini; brother Harish and sister-in-law Malini; brother Deepak and sister-in-law Karen; sister Renu and brother-in-law Gary Kohli; and nieces and nephews Rymn, Raina, Amit, Ruheene, Nick and Barrett.

A celebration of his life is planned at his Whidbey Island home from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 3.

Please contact the family at Karen@massands.com if you would like to join us.