Harbhajan passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025 in Hamilton, at the age of 85. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Nazar Singh (Chahal) Dipak. Survived and lovingly remembered by her sons, Gurpreet (Jagpreet) and Ajitpal (Karin) and daughter, Harpreet. Cherished Dadiji (grandmother) to Hema, Javyn and Milni. Fondly remembered by extended family across Canada and Punjab and missed by countless friends, neighbours and those in the Hamilton community in which she was a fixture for over 50 years.

Harbhajan was born in Chanthianwala, British India on May 10, 1940, relocating to Patti, Punjab after the 1947 partition. A precocious child, she received high honours throughout her studies, attending Punjab University, Chandigarh. She married Nazar Singh (Chahal) Dipak in 1965, and after obtaining her B.A, immigrated with him to England in 1966.

Always an industrious couple, Harbhajan and Nazar embarked on their respective professions in the civil service and libranianship, before emigrating to Canada in 1973 and relocating permanently to Hamilton, Ontario in 1975. Harbhajan retired from her post at Bell Canada as children soon followed, but was fiercely devoted to her family and the Sikh and Hamilton communities.

Her resolve was tested after Nazar’s tragic passing in 1990 but Harbhajan worked diligently to raise her young children and carry forward all that she and her husband had built. Those early years of hardship were replaced with pride, as her children completed their university studies, and she was overjoyed to see her family grow through marriage and the wonderful addition of grandchildren.

Khara, as she was affectionately known to all, enjoyed a cup of chaa and hours of conversation, regaling listeners with her unique life story and experiences. We will forever miss and cherish her welcoming smile, indomitable spirit, tireless work ethic, strength, determination and love that she carried throughout her entire life.

Sincere thanks to Dr. K. Chen and the wonderful staff at Idlewyld Manor, who provided exceptional care to Khara over the past 14 months. Heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Merly, Joy, Judith, Sonia and Karen, who provided diligent care to Mom over the past 3 years, both earlier at her residence on North Oval, and during her stay at Idlewyld Manor.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bay Gardens Funeral Home (1010 Botanical Drive, Burlington). Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9th from 6PM to 9PM at Bay Gardens - Burlington. The Funeral Service will take place on Friday, October 10th beginning at 2PM at Bay Gardens - Burlington, followed by cremation at Baycrest Crematorium. Funeral services will conclude at the Gurdwara Shaheedgarh Sahib Hamilton (200 Old Guelph Rd, Hamilton).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Canada, in memory of Harbhajan.

Online condolences may be made at www.BayGardens.ca.