Harnek Singh Gill

Harnek Singh Gill passed away at Christine Morrison Hospice on Oct 11, 2020. 

He is survived by his Daughter, Robin Gill-Chaudhary (Navdeep), Grandsons Nikhail and Naythan, and several other family. 

Harnek was born in Chananwal, Punjab, India and came to Canada at the age of 14 in 1950. Harnek's father, Puran Singh Gill, immigrated to Canada in 1924. Harnek and his family are pioneers of the Indo Canadian community in Great Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

He married in 1963 to Joginder Kaur Gill and settled in Mission, BC where his family has lived over 60 years. Harnek worked in the lumber industry for 50 years at Herman Saw Mills, Whonock Lumber and Hammond Lumber.

Harnek was blessed with two children Billy and Robin, both born and raised in Mission and contributing to the Mission community. Harnek and his family suffered a huge loss in 1985 when his son, Billy Gill, was tragically killed in a car accident. Although, Harnek never fully recovered from this loss, he went on to do more to give back and help those in need. 

Harnek opened the Billy Gill Memorial Hospital in his home town of Chananwal in India and also helped in opening the Billy Gill Memorial Weight Room at Mission Senior Secondary, he also started the Billy Gill Top Student Award at MSS.

Harnek helped support the Billy Gill Tennis Tournament which ran close to fifteen year in the Fraser Valley. He contributed to the Missionaries of Charities and many other charitable foundations. 

Harnek's life changed after many years when he was blessed with his two grandsons, Nikhail and Naythan. Harnek lost his wife on November 29, 2018 and shortly after his health deteriorated. Harnek was a healthy and active person, he constantly walked all over the streets ofMission where many people would see him up until he fell. He suffered a serious brain injury which slowly led to his decline.

He no longer was able to receive the care he needed at home and was now a resident at TRIM. Harnek fought and tried to stay as independent as he could till the very end. He will forever be remembered and missed by his family and friends. He has returned home to his loving wife and beloved son. 

Rest In Peace Dad and Nana. We love you.