It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to the patriarch of our family – a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Gurdev Singh Bains was born in Nangal Kalan, Punjab, to Mihan Singh and Isher Kaur Bains. A handsome young man, his father lovingly nicknamed him “Raja”; a nickname he lived up to. Gurdev immigrated to Canada in 1957 and settled in Victoria, B.C., where he built a fruitful life for his family. For many years, Gurdev worked alongside his uncle at their family-owned sawmill, Safeway Sawmill, a Division of Joginder Lumber Co. Once settled in Canada, he assisted countless other members of his community on their own immigration journeys – helping guide them to a better life.
As a devout Sikh, religion was an important part of Gurdev’s life and he took an active role in helping establish the first Gurdwara in Victoria. Never forgetting his roots, Gurdev frequently visited his ancestral home and will be fondly remembered for giving back to the people of Nangal Kalan.
Gurdev shared a special bond with his wife, Surjit Kaur, and their 78 year marriage was an inspiring testament of commitment and devotion. Papaji, as he was affectionately called by his grandchildren, was known for his kind and gentle nature with children. Even at the ripe age of 95, he enjoyed playing “soccer” and “catch” with his great-grandchildren. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family.
Gurdev was predeceased by his eldest son, Hardial (Balbir) and is survived by his wife, Surjit Kaur; sons, Raghbir (Arvinder) and Gurnam (Ravinder); and, grandchildren, Bob (Ellen), Mohan (Pali), Gurm, Naveen (Sara), Jag (Min), Amrita (Nick) and Priya. He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, who he adored.
Thank you to the doctors and nurses at Victoria Hospice for your compassionate care. The family also acknowledges, with sincere appreciation, the many comforting messages, prayers and other expressions of kindness that have been received.
A Funeral Service was held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens on Saturday, July 2, 2022, followed by prayers at the Gurdwara (1210 Topaz Avenue). To watch a recording of the Funeral Service click the image below.
Condolences may be offered to the Family below.
McCall Gardens
http://www.mccallgardens.com
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Malkiat Singh Bhogal
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Jarnail Sidhu My deepest condolences, With love Jarnail Sidhu
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Jitu What a lovely man and interesting journey he had. His kind presence will be missed. RIP
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Sardool Singh hundal Always a sad moment when someone pass away, especially when the person is one of your own. But we must agree & learn to live with this harsh reality. We pray for his soul in peaceful re- union with Waheguru .
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Sonny Sehdeve Soo Very Sorry for your Loss Amrita
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Charnjit Sidhu Such a great loss to the Victoria community and the Sikh Gurudwara of Sadh Sangat. Uncle Ji, we will miss your company, your great smile and the kindness you left in our hearts. We pray for your soul. Rest In Peace. My heartfelt condolences to the Bains family for this loss.
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Kanwal Sidhu Deepest condolences to the family. May God keep Uncle ji under his care. You will be missed dearly by everyone. RIP.
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Neeloo Vahi Condolences
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Ravinder Hill Masser ji, so special can not be forgotten. May God rest his beautiful soul in peace
A great and kind uncle to me, since I first met him around 2001 after moving from NF.
A person with surprisingly super memory at his age.
I learned the history of his family and the family’s business.
I found him enchanting with the kind of knowledge he could dish out.
I will miss you, dear Uncle.