Obituary – Mahinder Singh Kalra - Celebrating 100 Years!

Mahinder Singh was born on February 15, 1926, in Jaranwala, in undivided India — a time and place that shaped a generation marked by resilience, faith, and courage. Youngest of the six children born in Sikh Faith to his Dad Piar Singh & Mom Mehtab Kaur, he pursued his education at Khalsa College, Lyallpur, and began serving in the Railways. His early years reflected a deep sense of responsibility, commitment and exploration. He loved swimming, sports, played hockey, hunted and loved nature!

With Divine Grace guiding him, Mahinder Singh became the first in his family to escape the violence of the Partition of India in 1947. Leaving behind everything, he journeyed from Pakistan to India carrying with him faith, hope, and an unwavering determination to rebuild life with dignity and optimism and help his family. He went on the complete his education to Masters in Political Science.

In 1948, he married the love of his life, Jaskaran Kaur in the premises of Golden Temple, Amritsar. Their marriage of 72 beautiful years stood as a living example of devotion, partnership, and enduring love until her passing in 2020. They both were blessed with daughters Barinder & Jatinder, and sons Mohan & Saurabh, a family grounded in values of love, care, family and faith!

Mahinder Singh’s life journey later brought him to visit the United States in 1985 and 1989, till he permanently moved in 1991. He lived in various States, before spending his final 13 years in Oklahoma City with his youngest son Saurabh and daughter-in-law Mandeep, surrounded by love and attentive care by his family with regular calls, cards, visits and under the healthcare of his PCP Dr. Vatsala Shah.

Those who knew him, often struggled to describe the fullness of his character, because his virtues were lived quietly. He embodied unconditional love and devotion to family, patience in adversity, humility, and selfless service toward others. He believed deeply in respecting all people, helping those in need, protecting the vulnerable, and sharing whatever he had. Gentle yet magnetic in nature and very wise in judgment, he carried a sweetness of spirit and a smile that instantly brought comfort to others.

His life of a century reflected simple yet profound principles — staying active, living with moderation, maintaining inner balance, and trusting in the Divine. He loved outdoors, hunting, adventure, travel, exploration, eager to learn and experience life fully. One of his rare gifts was his ability to effortlessly connect with people of all ages, playing joyfully with children while engaging elders in thoughtful conversations.

Perhaps the most universal memory shared by all who met him was his infectious laughter — warm, genuine, and uplifting. Many have asked how such laughter can be preserved, for it carried light wherever he went. He lived not merely long, but deeply — touching hearts, strengthening families, and leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and humanity. Mahinder Singh is lovingly remembered by his 4 children, their respective spouses, 9 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandkids, whose lives continue to reflect his values and blessings.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all relatives, friends, caregivers, and community members whose love and support enriched his life. Though he has returned to his Eternal Home, his spirit lives on — in every act of compassion and every shared smile!

May his soul merge and rest with the Divine and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to live with love, respect, humility, sweetness and service.