Four days after his 68th birthday, Raslouw mechanic Arvind Singh passed away peacefully with his family around him. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle was known for his kind heart, helpfulness, advice, loyalty and being a real family man.
“Our dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in July 2020. He was determined to fight his battle but sadly passed away on 6 March 2021.”
“We would like to thank our mum (Laila) for standing by our dad for the many years and taking care of our dad especially in the last few months of being ill.” Arvind was loved by many and he will be remembered by all that knew him. “We thank our family, friends and the community for all the support and prayers during this time.”
A host of well-known names paid tribute to the mechanic after hearing the news.
Professor Pankaj Joshi said, “It is with great sense of loss and regret that we learnt of the very sad passing of an ‘old’ friend, Mr Arvind Singh.
“Our relationship as families dates back to the late seventies when we were next door neighbours in the Olin House Flats. We, Arvind and Laila, and my late wife Nazeeha and I, saw our children grow up together, shared in our problems, and that special relationship has lasted up to now.”
“Arvind was a kind, soft spoken and very respectful human being who extended his generosity to his family, friends and religious groups. He was a regular active member of the Vishnu Mandir Group, and, attesting to his generosity, he further donated his house in Laudium to the Hare Krishna Movement after moving to Raslouw.”
A qualified Motor Mechanic by trade, he had the belief and trust of a wide group of clients, who came to him from far and wide. His workmanship skills were immaculate, and serviced or fixed cars at a much more affordable price.
“Most unfortunately he developed cancer of the pancreas in the penultimate years and after fighting the disease with chemotherapy for some time he finally succumbed to it. But he always maintained a positive comportment.”
“Our only consolation on his passing is that his suffering and pain is over, and he is in a peaceful abode beyond body-mind discomforts. Our prayers go out for his loving wife, Laila, and children Sunita, Thasha and Vitesh, and his grandchildren he loved so dearly. May the Lord Almighty give them strength to mentally sustain this deficit. He will be sadly missed by all his family, friends and acquaintances.”
Daya Chetty wrote, “My heartfelt condolences to the family on the passing of your dad. He was indeed a great citizen and contributed in many ways towards community building. May the Almighty grant you’ll the strength during this difficult time. Pray that his soul will rest in eternal peace.”
From Rajeev Mooloo and family - “It is with great regret that Laudium had to bid farewell to a great soul this week, Mr Arvind Singh. He was a real legend always contributing in every way possible towards humanity. Mr Singh, who was a senior member of the Pretoria Maha Sabha was always involved in the management of the Temple and its operations. Together with his wife and children, we salute Mr Singh for his generous contributions and everything that he has done. His presence will surely be missed. May his great soul rest in Peace.”
Vinnesh Singh said, “Sunita, Tash, Vitesh, and your mum, deepest condolences to you and and your family. May God grant you strength through this challenging and testing time. It won't be easy, that is why you have family. Your dad was the captain of his ship in his time and will always be. He was well known and respected for his contribution and endeavors especially at the temple and community. We are thinking about you all in our prayers. May his soul rest in peace.”
Angels Helping Hands (AHH) would like to express its condolences to you on the demise of your husband/father. Recently, in lieu of his birthday celebrations, Arvind chose to do a feeding via AHH instead. AHH is thankful for that lovely gesture. We pray that Arvind’s family find the fortitude to bear his great loss. Losing someone you love is never easy, but be thankful for the beautiful moments and memories that you shared with your husband/father. Thank you.
Arvind is survived by his dear wife Laila, children Sunita, Thasha and Vitesh and loving grandsons Shahil and Muhammad