Surinder Pal Singh Mann

Many of my most cherished childhood memories involve SP chachaji and his family. His warmth and kindness made Prince George a very special place for me growing up. Our strength as a family is a result of the times we were able to share, and much of this was due to his efforts. In the wake of his passing, his dedication, love, and loyalty serve as lessons for us. For this, and so much more, we are all grateful to you chachaji. I am thankful you were a part of my life and your loss is felt deeply.

For as long as I can remember SP Phagji has been an integral part of our family. We shared lots of great memories together with our families and friends. He unknowing gave us the greatest gift of all that we will cherish forever, those fun filled “memories”. He immortalized those for us forever with his passions in life which included photography, videography and music. He was a man with many talents who had the keen ability to read seek out the knowledge and conquer the world; he was a self made man. I encourage everyone to carry on with his passion to build strong friendships and family ties. I will remember our salutations not a hello, hi or how's it going. It was just a BIG hug followed by a smart remark or two. The goodbyes were followed with I love you................My brother.

Mandeep S Mahanger
Surrey, BC

Nanaji was always looking out for us. Not only to give a quick pep talk about school but also to help us with what we wanted to do in life. He was always very caring, he would play badminton, volleyball, or soccer with us kids just to even out the teams. He never wanted anyone to be alone and when they were he'd jump right in. I will miss his big hugs and his efforts to always make me smile.

Missing you masarji. When masarji left us it felt like I lost my dad all over again. He was there for us when we needed him. My kids never met my dad but he was always there for my kids as nanaji. I will miss his hugs and saying 'love you beta'. He will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Phupharji was truly unique among his generation. We think about all our uncles, related or not, who came from India when he did, under similar circumstances, and few, if any, carved out such a diverse and interesting life. He truly pursued his passions and hobbies rather than falling into a rut of working, eating and sleeping. He worked to provide for the family, but as everyone else has written, he found time to do so much more. I fondly remember the annual visit from the PG crew, every summer in Victoria. The legendary red minivan driven by Phupharji would enter our driveway, and weeks of fun would follow. He would pick me up, toss me around, laugh and play like he was one of us kids. He was always ready to tell jokes, to the kids and adults alike. He'd chat on literally any topic. His passion for music was downright contagious, and he never met a dance floor he didn't like (we have ample video evidence).

As we ourselves became adults, our relationship with Phupharji changed to one more based on intellectual conversations, but his young-at-heart attitude and loving nature persisted. My most recent long chat with him, he wanted me to explain on a biochemical and molecular level the reasoning behind certain dietary choices of mine. This blew me away, considering me and my own colleagues would find this boring, whereas he showed keen interest. His zest for knowledge really knew no boundaries.

Phupharji's love of family has thankfully led to our family being incredibly close to the PG Mann crew over the years. He welcomed Kamal to the family with open arms, as he did with every in-law along the way. We are saddened that our daughter Evita was never able to experience the overwhelming love Phupharji showed to all the children and grandchildren in the extended family. We love every member of the Mann family dearly, and Phupharji's legacy will certainly live on through these ongoing relationships. We want to thank him for the timeless memories, new experiences, acquired knowledge, and this lasting legacy through our brothers and sisters Gul, Sum, Nav and B, and our beloved Bhua. Rest in peace.

Where do I begin? Mann uncle was there the very minute I was born and he taught me so much in the 25 years I had with him. You could always expect his famous "Hello Puth" with a kiss on the cheek whenever you saw him, and His life lessons whenever I had the opportunity to pick his brain and have a sit down with him. He taught me to stay humble, to always push myself to succeed at the highest level. He always made sure I kept a positive circle around me and most importantly, I could always count on him being the very first person arriving and the very last person leaving my annual birthday parties. That meant a great deal to me. All of the times performing alongside him on the dholki and congos, I will always cherish the memories I have of him, and I will always keep the lessons he taught me close to my heart. I've missed him every day he's been gone. It's a heavy burden in all of our lives, but the most important thing he would want is us to keep his legacy going and to stay positive. I miss you Mann uncle. Love you. Til we meet again (L)

As far back as I can remember, I can picture Uncle at family parties doing what he loved most: singing and making music. He was enthusiastic and full of energy, and always ready to entertain. He encouraged others to participate and sing at least one song, and I would imagine that it broadened people's horizons by singing and telling jokes when they might not have ordinarily done so. As a kid, it was normal for me to see him and Sarbjit Uncle hooking up keyboards and all of their other equipment, and when they weren't performing, they'd let us young kids play a few keys on the keyboard and bang on the dholak a bit. As I got older and got to know him better, I learned that he didn't drink, and never had. It always impressed me that he was so outgoing and ready to perform in front of any number of people without being under the influence of alcohol, which so many people seem to not be able to to do without. He'll be missed.

Bhaji was always so loving with my children. One of our family's most enjoyable times was either when we visited PG or when Mann family came to visit us. It made every summer worth looking forward to for my children. Personally for me I will miss Bhaji's good advice on
almost any topic you ask of him. We will miss you always.....Kulvinder Bains

Surinder uncle was a great guy, down to earth. I remembered one moment when I met him for the first time about 9 years ago in Prince George, the family and I were together. Me and him were singing songs infront of the whole family. But with that I was also forced to buy a keyboard piano since I was passionate with music as well. If anyone has ever recommended me to buy a keyboard, he would be the only person so far which I won't ever forget. Thanks for all these great memories I had with you. You're truly going to be missed.<3

My deepest sympathy to Jasvinder and family for your loss. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Sincerely, Lakvir
Victoria

Surinder (sandy) was like a second father to me. He always treated me like I was one of his sons. He taught me to not give up on my dreams. To live life to your fullest potential. To try your best, and to work hard. But most importantly enjoy your family and friends and each other. I miss you and thank you for your teachings and many memories and laughter. Regards, Mark Holton.

Bhaji, we miss your smile. He was a great friend and a teacher. Who is going to teach us now on karaoke nights?

We are saddened and deeply sorry for the loss of Surinder bhaji to his family and loved ones. May God give your family strength to get through this difficult time.

Sumy and family - so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you, and please let us know if there is anything we can do.

Brendan & Deb

My Uncle was a great man... missing you xoxox rip PG Mama Ji

MISSING YOU SURINDER