Harbhajan Singh Sangha

December 31, 1941 - July 6, 2022

We are heartbroken and saddened to announce the sudden passing of Harbhajan, our loving dad, Nanaji and Babaji to Meera and Tyson, husband, brother, and friend. Harbhajan passed away after a brief and sudden illness. He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Malkeet, son, Raj (Jivan), daughters Kim (Chad) and Meena (Ken).

Harbhajan was a proud family man, generous grandparent, and a champion of resiliency to his children. He came to Prince Rupert, BC from Kenya, Africa, at the age of 22 and started work selling encyclopedias door to door, before moving into a brief position at a local lumber mill and subsequently found his career with Canada Post. He rose from letter carrier to Regional Superintendent through a determined commitment to challenging stereotypes, voracious reading, communication acumen and hard work.

Harbhajan advocated for a progressive Indo-Canadian identity in BC. He was proud of his roots and modeled to his children that pride in Sikhism was compatible with Canadian values. Harbhajan helped establish the Prince Rupert Sikh Temple, led Punjabi-speaking classes, and participated in community partnerships/board memberships with countless agencies. He fully believed in his whole being that presence in one’s community would break down attitudes of racism and was driven to highlight the Indo-Canadian spirit of service and equality.

Harbhajan cherished the city of Prince Rupert and all that it brought to his wife and kids. He loved the community and valued the fabric of diversity his family was a part of. He was a regular at local restaurants and could be found with his kids on Saturdays having lunch, enjoying a slice of homemade pie, and visiting local shops. He accepted a work transfer to Langley, BC in 1989 after he and Malkeet moved to be closer to their children.

Harbhajan led a quiet life in retirement. He spent time with his grandchildren, reveled in animated fun-loving debates with his son in-laws and took joy in celebrating the achievements of loved ones. He also couldn’t resist a good joke, hearty laugh, and dessert with family!

As the oldest brother of six siblings, Harbhajan had a fierce drive that led him through times of celebration, sorrow, and hardship. He taught us all that giving up is not an option and he persevered through every life transition. He insisted history was a small part of a person’s future. Harbhajan felt anger had no place with love and strove for betterment. His faith in God and prayer gave him hope for the future. Memories fade but his resolute support and friendship endures in our spirits.

Rest in peace, dad.

No service by request.