Obituary of Narendra Chunilal Bhatt
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Narendra C. Bhatt, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 2nd, 1932, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Narendra led a remarkable life that spanned continents and touched countless lives. He was a devoted family man, a pioneer in education, a sports champion, and a successful businessman who made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Narendra’s professional journey began with a Honors Bachelor of Science degree from Gujarat University, where he was not only an exceptional student but also an accomplished athlete, serving as the Head Captain of the Gujarat University Volleyball Team for four years. His love for sports continued throughout his life, and he went on to win prestigious titles, including the Thika Open Golf Tournament. Narendra retired in Canada with his wife, Bhadraben Bhatt, children, and grandchildren, where he continued to pursue his love for sports, playing and eventually conquering Bridge, winning the Meadowvale District Bridge Gold Medal.
Narendra's successes extended far beyond sports. He dedicated his life to education, first as a teacher and then as headmaster at several schools, including Dagoretti High School, Ruiru Secondary, Chief Koinange School, and Parkland School in Nairobi, Kenya. He also founded Ruiru High School, tirelessly fighting for access to good education for all children. This incredible accomplishment continues to thrive as a lasting legacy of his commitment to educating future generations. His students remember him not only for his leadership but for his unwavering dedication to their success.
In addition to his many educational pursuits, Narendra was also a prosperous entrepreneur and businessman. He was a partner with the Honorable Peter Kenyatta in several ventures and was commissioned by the World Bank to lead a notable project, manufacturing audio cassettes in a large warehouse in Kenya. His success with his many business endeavors were a testament to his drive and affinity for entrepreneurship.
Through his many successes he continued to pay tribute to his roots through various charitable contributions. Narendra continued his efforts in promoting education by helping teachers establish careers and helping students and their families with tuition donations. He also made a significant contribution to Credit Valley Hospital to show his appreciation for all the efforts in caring for his wife and himself. However his biggest philanthropic achievement may have been donating a community center to his hometown in Vaso, India in remembrance of his mother, Jayalaxmi Chunilal Bhatt, a single mother who provided a strong foundation for Narendra to build his incredible life.
Though he has accomplished a great deal in his life, it was his family that meant the most to him. His wife, Bhadraben Bhatt, was the heart of the family, providing endless support, guidance, and strength to not only Narendra’s life but their childrens’. Narendra’s most fulfilling role in life was being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his greatest achievement. His legacy lives on through them, as they carry forward his values of hard work, integrity, and love for family.
Narendra’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of many, and his memory will be cherished forever. He is survived by his loving brother, Vinubhai Bhatt, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. The family would like to express their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences during this difficult time. A memorial service to celebrate Narendra’s life will be held on Sunday, November 24th at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Dixie Cemetery & Crematorium.
Om Shanti.
Please join in celebrating the life of Narendra on Sunday, November 24, 2024 with visiting from 11:15 a.m. until 12 noon at which time his Funeral Pooja will be held followed by cremation. All to be held at the eco Life Celebration Centre-Magnolia Chapel of St. John's Dixie Crematorium (737 Dundas Street East at Cawthra). Parking is available in the large lot adjacent to the church. Please proceed through the cemetery gates to the large building ahead.
A livestream will be available by clicking this link HERE at approximately 1130 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. Please have your volume set to high and note that no technical assistance will be made available.
Please share a memory, photo or sentiment of his life here at his memorial legacy page.
Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.
-Modern Funerals-
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