With great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Kuldip Singh Bhandari at the age of 82. Dad passed away unexpectedly at his favourite frequented place of Paldi Sikh Temple on Sunday June 9, 2019.
Born in Singapore on September 12, 1936 and soon relocated to India due to World War II. Living in the Village of Bhootan, grandson of Sardar Labh Singh Bhandari, son of Sardar Atma Singh (Rishpal Kaur), brother to Sardar Raindhir Singh and Sardar Tarlok Singh. Kuldip grew up with the love and tenderness of his beloved grandma Mme. Ganga Devi who raised him and his brothers as a mother after his passed away at a young age.
Kuldip was an intelligent, goal-oriented man who sought higher learning by first completing his Masters in Chandigarh University. His achievements allowed for him to be selected to come to Canada to learn at McMasters University in Hamilton Ontario. From there, he moved his studies to University of Waterloo where he completed and graduated with a Ph.D. Honours in Organic Chemistry. With his new wife Estelita, they embarked on a new journey to Vancouver, British Columbia to start his Post Doctoral studies at University of British Columbia.
His esteemed credentials led him to his first teaching position on Vancouver Island at Strathcona Girls School in Shawnigan Lake while moving his wife and new daughter Nina to Duncan B.C. His next step was a professor position at University of Victoria, when his second daughter Camila was born. He then finished his career as a professor at Malaspina University-College for 20 years. His profession brought him joy and satisfaction by guiding students to meet their learning goals. He was admired by every student that he taught. They appreciated his kind heart and willingness to spend time helping them learn the magic of Organic Chemistry.
During his retirement years his efforts were dedicated to give back to the community of Paldi Sikh Temple. He enjoyed working with the committee members to share many events that brought the Duncan Indian community together.
Survived by his loving wife Estelita Bhandari of 52 happy years raising two daughters Nina (Kurt) and Camila (Kevin). Filling his life with the admiration and respect of his caring grandchildren Hannah, Kole, Rhys, and Mia.
He is also survived by his loving extended family Usha, wife of deceased brother Raindhir, nephew Sanjiv (Anita) children Saaya and Jaidyn as well as niece Lovely (Sushil) and children Roman, Krisha and Rylan.
Kuldip also leaves behind many friends whom he loved dearly and treated as family. Their kindness will always be with him.
Funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 16th, 2019 at 11 am. Doors open at 9:30 am at HW Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre, Duncan BC
Prayers in the form of Sahej Paath and langar will be at the Paldi Sikh Temple following the service.
Satnam Waheguru
Not Ready to Let you Go
I wish that I could tell you I'm not ready to let you go. But you've already departed, And my heart is feeling so low.
I miss that little twinkle
That used to light up your eyes. And I miss the sound of your voice, Your laughter and your sighs.
But most of all I miss
The way you made me feel,
Like nothing could ever harm me because Your love was so strong and real.
There are others here who miss you, And they've gathered here today. Your life touched so many people, Who became your friends along the way.
They want you to know they love you, too. And they're filled with sadness and grief. No one really wants to say goodbye,
So we'll just wish you eternal peace.
H.W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre