Jit Singh Basran

July 1932 – November 2022

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jit Singh Basran, our devoted husband, father, grandfather, and beloved friend to many.

Born in Bilaspur, India in 1932, he was the second-youngest of 3 sisters and 3 brothers. He immigrated to Kamloops at 19 years of age to establish his new life. Years later he married his cherished wife of 62 years, Gurdev Kaur Basran (nee. Thiara) and raised their 3 children Dayl (Ken) Dhaliwal, Ray (Jaz) Basran, and Devi (Karim) Basran.

Jit was known as an extremely hard worker. For over 45 years, he started his working day at his sister’s apple orchard on Singh Street, then proceeded to work his shifts at the Punjab Lumber and Weyerhaeuser sawmills, with shifts at the Sundown Drive-In Theater in between! Jit’s work ethic and dedication to the Sikh faith made him a pillar of the Kamloops and Indo-Canadian communities with many hours of his spare time dedicated to sustaining the Sikh Cultural Society Gurdwara. His tenacity and drive to succeed was a reflection on, and example to, his family and community.

Even after retirement, Jit never slowed down, filling his days swimming laps at the pool, tending to his vegetable garden and rose bushes, watching his favorite sports, and taking evening walks with his wife. He passed on his passion for health and fitness to his children and grandchildren, and was their proudest spectator. The first to arrive at games, and first to leave! The only time he ever raised his voice was while cheering on his teams and giving coaching advice through the TV! Hockey Night in Canada, BC Lions games, or Allstar Wrestling were on almost around the clock at the house.

Until the end, Jit’s wry humour and infectious laugh filled any room and enveloped those around him with love. He passed away peacefully and with dignity in his home with his wife by his side. He will be greatly missed by his wife, children and his six grandchildren: Danielle, Kiesha, Jennifer, Jamie, Jaylene (Jiven), Kaylen. His family would like to thank Dr. Brar and Nurse Practitioners Tonya, Chantelle, Diane, Laura, Jennifer, Beckie & Stephanie for their compassionate care.

Our family will be Celebrating his incredible life in a service to be held on Friday December 2 at 11:00am in the Schoening Funeral Chapel, 513 Seymour Street followed by prayers and lunch at the Sikh Cultural Society Gurdwara at 700 Cambridge Crescent.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Heart and Stroke Foundation.