Thankappan Philipose was born on January 26, 1946, to God-fearing parents, the late Philipose Naduparabil and Anamma Philipose in Vaikom, Kerala, India. Thankappan was the second youngest of nine siblings and despite losing his Mother at the age of 4, it was clear from a young age that Thankappan was a diligent student, determined to succeed.

From 1969 to 1971, he attended CMS College Kottayam where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English Literature. Shortly after that, he joined the Kottayam District's Social Welfare Department as a Junior Superintendent and was promoted to Officer for the Government of Kerala. His job was fulfilling and brought him a sense of joy and accomplishment as it required him to travel throughout Kerala, ensuring social and economic progress as well as nurturing equality among the indeginous people of Kerala. During Thankappan's tenure, he married the love of his life, Mani, on January 24, 1974. Thankappan and Mani were blessed with two sons, Ajith Philipose and Arun Philip.

Thankappan was a member of the New Testament Church and he was a true believer in Jesus.Although a man of few words, he served as an Usher as well as joined the Nursing Home Ministry until his health began to decline.

Thankappan was loved by all, family members and friends alike: he always had a smile on his face. He enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren. Thankappan's quiet moments would be spent reading the bible and other books, listening to music, and gardening.

On the afternoon of February 17, 2024, while holding the hand of his dear wife, Thankappan quietly slipped into. the presence of God.

Thankappan is survived by his loving wife, Mani Philipose, son Ajith and wife Geena Philipose, son Arun and wife Avni Shah, grandchildren Emma and Nazirine Philipose and Aaray and Isaac Philip, sisters, Eliamma Chako (Thalayolaparambu, Kerala) Chinnamma Mark(US), brothers Joseph Philipose (Vaikom, Kerala), a host of nieces and nephews, cousin brothers and sisters and friends and loved ones too numerous to mention.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Philipose Naduparabil and Anamma Philipose , brother Johnson Philipose (Manathayady, Kerala), and sisters, Mariamma Yoseph (Thalayolaparambu, Kerala), and Saramma Chako (Vaikom, Kerala).

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."

Psalm 23:6