Nirmal Singh Sundher

Nirmal Singh Sundher was predeceased by his father (July 10th, 1882 – March 25th, 1984) Ishar Singh, mother Harnam Kaur, brother Pritam (Birdie), and sister-in-law, Hardial. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 74 years, Gurdeep (nee Bains) and his three children Ajmare (Catherine), Sheela (Ron), Rajan (Pam), as well as his nine grandchildren, Krishan (Liz); Jaylem; Janessa; Shawn (Camie); Taryn (Linnea); Asha (Harish); Navina (Mark); Joshua; Isaiah (Kim) and six great grandchildren.

Our father was born in the village of Kotli, India. At the age of twelve, he emigrated to Canada with his father and brother; full of optimism and a beacon of hope to forge a new beginning. With diplomacy and graceful tact, they contended with discrimination, took risks, and embraced their new lives. Those formative years taught Nim the valuable qualities of patience, resiliency, and determination. He never forgot his roots and was proud of his heritage; personified through the values of hard work and perseverance.

Nim married Gurdeep in 1948 and together they enjoyed countless social activities, volunteer commitments, family gatherings, and enchanting travels abroad. After mom experienced a stroke in 2018, it was dad who became her guardian angel, sitting by her side day in, day out providing company and encouragement. He offered her his unconditional love and support.

Nim’s dedication and passion for keeping fit were unwavering and his longevity can be attributed to his sixty-year membership at the YMCA - he never missed a day. Dad was our ‘ironman.’ His positive approach to fitness, strong work ethic, and good health contributed to him never taking a sick day from his career as a longshoreman.

Nim was always there for whoever needed him and would go out of his way to help others and treated them like they were his immediate family. His big heart and strong moral responsibility extended to his family in India. He facilitated moves to Canada and helped his relatives adjust to their new lives. He offered his love and guidance through this important transition.

Dad had a warm focus on family and friends and he shared a gift of love and life with those he met. Dad’s kind and gentle disposition enabled him to befriend those he met which left a lasting impression on a wide circle of lifelong friendships. He always took a genuine interest in your life and your family’s well-being. Dad had a positive nature, a comforting and amazing smile, and loved to laugh. Our father had an appreciation for life and the many opportunities it provided.

Nim and Gurdeep’s home had an open-door policy and everyone was welcome and treated to their generous hospitality. Dad took every opportunity to make his guests feel valued as he always saw something good in everyone. He always had a kind word to offer.

Dad’s face would light up in the company of young children. Many children considered dad their uncle, second father or grandfather (Baba Ji).

Dad was our best friend, inspiration, and hero. He could always be counted on for help when needed, wisdom on important issues, and fairness when problems arose. We are forever grateful for his precious gift of time, the sacrifices he made for us, his honesty, inspiration, strength of character; integrity, gentleness, humility, and generosity. These qualities have influenced our lives over so many years. We will continue to honour dad’s legacy.

Our family is forever appreciative and would like to thank the many family, friends, caregivers (Jen, Geeta, Usha), and healthcare professionals. Your compassion, support, attentive care, and companionship have been so vital. Your words of comfort have shown your unconditional love and respect for both mom and dad.

Dad started every day thanking God for all the blessings of his life – ‘Waheguru Ji Khalsa.’ We start every day thanking God for the gift of Nirmal Singh Sundher in our lives.

Dad, you have left us with so many lessons, treasures, and memories. You will always be remembered not for what you accomplished, but for how you treated others and made us all feel valued.

We are proud to be dad’s family!

A private service was held at the family’s request. There will be a Celebration of Life later in the spring – date TBA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the BC Cancer Agency or a charity of your choice on dad’s behalf.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com for the Sundher family.