Swarn Deol

Swarn Singh Deol (March 1, 1934 - October 17, 2024)
Our dear father, Swarn Singh Deol, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 17, 2024, at
the age of 90. His life was a journey of resilience, honor, and devotion-a story that began in the
city of Lyallpur (now Faisalabad), British India, where he was born on March 1, 1934, to Natha
Singh Deol and Sham Kaur Mann.
Lyallpur, known as the "Manchester of Asia" for its vibrant manufacturing landscape, was where
Swarn's formative years unfolded. At the age of 12, he witnessed India's independence in 1947
and endured the painful upheaval of partition, which led his family to rebuild their lives in
Jagraon, Punjab. There, they worked tirelessly to establish and expand their agricultural
holdings, creating a new chapter filled with both hard work and hope.
Swarn pursued academic excellence while contributing to his family's efforts. His intellectual
curiosity took him to the prestigious DAV University in Dehra Dun where he earned his Master's
degree. At 26, with immense courage and determination, he embarked on a journey to England,
leaving his homeland with only ten pounds in his pocket and the vision of a better future for his
young family. Alone in a foreign land, he worked tirelessly at physically demanding jobs to
support his darling wife, Harminder Kaur Deol (from Kokri Kalan, Punjab), and their young son,
Baljit Singh Deol, who joined him in 1963. In England, their family grew with the arrival of his
second son, Satinderpal Singh Deol, completing their cherished family.
Swarn's passion for learning led him to a teaching career in History and English. At the same
time, he became a devoted fan of Leicester City Football Club, finding joy in their victories,
including their miraculous 2016 Premiership Championship. Alongside teaching, he ventured
into business, building successful clothing and real estate enterprises that symbolized his
unyielding work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite their achievements in England, he and
his wife pursued the American dream in the mid-1980s.
Swarn and Harminder moved to California, where they launched the first Subway franchise in
Brentwood and owned a hotel in the scenic town of South Lake Tahoe.
Swarn and Harminder remained deeply connected to family. They were fortunate to be closer to
their sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews who provided immense love and support.
In later years, Swarn and Harminder lived with their son Baljit Singh Deol and his wife, Jaskiran
Kaur Deol, and their grandchildren – Amrit Kaur Deol, Avneet Kaur Deol, and Karanjeet Singh
Deol – moving from Las Vegas, Nevada to Grand Rapids, Michigan. Swarn was deeply devoted
to his family and played an active role in his grandchildren's lives, driving them to activities and
making sure their needs were met with love and care.
After his wife Harminder's passing in 2011, Swarn found solace in the companionship and love
of his sons and unremitting care of his daughter in law, Jaskiran Kaur Deol. His son, Satinderpal
Singh Deol, was a pillar of strength during Swarn's final years, particularly as he faced
progressive mobility challenges. Satinderpal's weekly outings with his father brought immense
joy and lifted his spirits, creating cherished memories.
Swarn embodied honor, dignity, and grace in all his interactions. His calm and kind spirit left an
indelible mark on everyone he encountered. He passed away with the same peaceful demeanor
that defined his life, leaving a legacy of strength, kindness, and unshakable devotion.
His is preceded in death by his beloved wife Harminder Kaur Deol, his brother Tara Singh Deol,
and his sister Amar Kaur Kalar.
He is survived by his brother Santokh Singh Deol, sons Baljit Singh Deol and Satinderpal Singh
Deol, and grandchildren Amrit Kaur Deol, Sarjan Singh Deol, Jesrhea Kaur Deol, Avneet Kaur
Deol, and Karanjeet Singh Deol.
His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the lives of
those he inspired.
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