Obituaries

A letter of love to my mother.

Dear Mum,

In this time of loss I am reflecting on the incredible woman, wife, mother and friend that you were, what an amazing life you led, and what a hole it leaves in our lives.

From the beginning you did things that were incredibly brave, challenging and amazing.

Born in a small farming village in India you did what was expected of you and became part of an arranged marriage at such a young age. I can’t imagine how scary that must have been.

You patiently waited in your village as Dad was at university working on his degrees. When Dad got a scholarship to a University in Canada you patiently waited for him to secure a home and a new life there. Once he was ready he sent for you and you made the long journey to an extremely foreign land. I am so in awe of the struggles you faced as an immigrant from that little village in India as you came to this huge country of Canada. You came to this country where the language was foreign and you were alone with no support from family or friends. You committed to Dad and this new life he wanted. I know you did this out of a combination love and loyalty.

Once in Canada you experienced the birth of your first born child, Chuck. Your love for him was limitless and you were overjoyed. As a mother, your patience was your strength. A new mother, in a new country, with no family to lean on. Thankfully you found your community of kind immigrants and neighbours, these people were your new family. With the

uncertainty and fear that comes with motherhood, you were forever grateful for their kindnesses and advice. At the age of 43, after many years and many unsuccessful pregnancies, you were blessed with your second child. A daughter. With me, you were more confident as a mother.

When I was 10 you lost your husband and became a widow. You were a single, unemployed mother with two children. Your exceptional community rallied around you and again you rose to meet the challenge. Dad ran the house, you were never a part of the finances, or of things. You quickly learned how to pay city taxes, insure the home and do the banking. You ran the house and provided the best life for Chuck and I. We were always fed, safe and warm.

Throughout your life your hobbies filled your soul. You would take pride in cooking Indian food, and loved feeding all the unexpected guests. You were an incredible seamstress and could fix anything and were always willing to make me a new dress. You had a beautiful love of animals and plants. You were truly inspiring!

Thank you all the love you showed us no matter what, especially when we were at our most challenging as young adults. I am very grateful for the 48 wonderful years I had surrounded by your unconditional love.

As I reflect back on the life you lived it is so clear that it was defined by the love of your family (Canadian and Indian), the pride in your home and your unwavering love of Canada.

I am deeply saddened by losing your daily presence in our lives, but our fondest memories of you and the love you had for us will give comfort forever.

Love you Mum,

Kumud

Bachchi Devi Singh was born 10 of May, 1930 passed away early morning on Sept 13,2021.

Predeceased by her husband Dr. Samar Bahadur Singh.

Survived by her son Chakradhar Singh, her daughter Kumud Singh, and her grandchildren Jacob and Sophie Singh.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to The Vedanta Ashram Society or the Northwood Foundation in mum’s honour.