It was with great sadness that the Centre for Indo Canadian Studies learned of the passing of a good friend, Mr. Jagat (Jack) Singh Uppal earlier in the month of May. Late last year, Mr. Uppal had very generously donated to the CICS so it could expand various research projects. Mr. Uppal, an established philanthropist always believed in giving back to his community as he and his family had very deep seeded pioneering roots in Canada. The following is the obituary as released by the family:
It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of the Honourable Dr. Jack Uppal on May 4, 2014. Jack will be lovingly missed by his children Cindy (Harjinder), Paul (Manjit), Davie (Kay) and Pam (Jinder), 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. A pioneer, a well -respected family man, a pillar of the community and a philanthropist.
Jack was a storyteller. He shared his stories of love, religion, and life in every speech he presented with hope that it would instill the same sense of pride he carried in his heart for his community and family. His humble beginnings fuelled his determination and fight to provide a quality of life for his family that would allow the following generations an opportunity to pursue their passions. He had an incredible work ethic that he shared with his children and as a result his company, Goldwood Industries, came to become one of many successful lumber mills in British Columbia.
Recently, Jack was honored with a Doctorate of Law by Simon Fraser University. Although this was only one of the many acknowledgements he had received over the years, he felt blessed by the mere mention of his name, and grateful for the recognition of his and his father’s contribution to the South Asian community.
Jack will always remain in our hearts, and his love forever in us all. It was an honor to have met him, a privilege to have known him, and a blessing to call him our father.
