The decomposing body of Dr Charles Validen, which was found in his Triumph, East Coast Demerara home last month, remains at the Lyken’s Funeral Home unclaimed.
Stabroek News understands that the 76-year-old Guyana-born obstetrician and gynaecologist, who had conducted his practice at the corner of Charlotte and Albert streets has no known relatives living here.
Based on what this newspaper has gathered, the man returned to Guyana from Canada after divorcing his wife. His ex wife reportedly died earlier this year and one of the couple’s children is also dead. The surviving child, a son, is mentally ill and while it is known Validen had a grandson, the child’s whereabouts are unknown.
One woman, who was familiar with the doctor, said it was a shame that he may never get a decent funeral because no relative has come forward. If the situation remains the same the police may be forced to eventually give him a “poor burial”.
Based on reports, the doctor’s maid went to the house on August 31 and after knocking on his locked bedroom door and getting no response, made a report to the police who later found his decomposing body.
A post-mortem examination revealed that he died from heart related issues, this newspaper was told.
