Asha Sethi-Dhir

The eldest daughter of Sudharshan Lal Sethi and Shiela Bedi, Asha was born in Basti Danishmanda, Punjab, India. Earning her Nursing degree in Jalandhar,1967, Asha moved to Montréal in 1969, becoming the first of her seven siblings to leave home and make a new life elsewhere. In 1972, she returned to India to marry Ashok Kumar Dhir and the new couple moved back to Montréal to start their family life with children Anurag (born 1973) and Rishi (born 1977).

Asha and Ashok were part of a growing Indian diaspora and the friendships they formed have lasted to this day. Asha’s generosity, charm, conviction, loving heart and impeccable grace and style informed how she embraced life, thrived in her career, and expressed her unbounded love. As a Mother, Asha was dedicated to her children finding their place in the world, setting an example for honest effort in work, selfless dedication to family and kindness towards others.

Returning to India at many points in her life, Asha found peace and joy with her large, extended family. Her cultural roots and relations were the source of her immense spirit and strength, whether in celebration or through the deepest tragedies. Not the least following the untimely passing of her beloved younger sisters Rekha and Sujata, elder brother Vijay and younger brothers Ajit, Rakesh and Vippen. Through everything Asha was an unwavering embodiment of hope to her family, reflecting her namesake.

In retirement, Asha and Ashok continued to explore the world, enjoy time with friends and family, and embrace their roles as doting grandparents. A deeply spiritual woman, Asha manifested her faith through prayer, culinary prowess, an unapologetic devotion to all things sweet, and a love for the arts, song and stories. Up until her passing, Asha was part of a group of friends who would meet weekly to sing popular Indian songs and ghazals, something she approached with her usual pride and passion. Otherwise, she enjoyed days with Ashok in their Brossard home watching the latest Bollywood films and Indian Idol, reading novels and hosting feasts and fun for her children and their growing families who always lived close by.

Asha is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Ashok; her children, Anurag (Éliane) and Rishi (Kirsty); her cherished grandchildren, Meera, Ishaan, Krish, and Léo; and her brothers, Ashok and Hindpal.

Visitation will be on Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 11am to 2pm at La Maison Darche, 505, boul. Curé Poirier Ouest, Longueuil, QC J4J 2H5