Hira Lal

passed away peacefully on July 4, 2023, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 78.

Born on June 17, 1945, in Koronivia, Hira was the son of Murari and Ram Kuar. He excelled

academically and was renowned for his elegant calligraphic handwriting. He had a successful career in

accounting, working at esteemed organizations such as Millers, Courts Fiji Limited, and the United

Nations Development Programme. Hira met his wife, Shamla Prasad, during their high school years in

Nausori. They married on May 2, 1964, and raised four children before migrating to the United States in

1986. In Portland, Oregon, Hira achieved great success at Red Lion Hotels, progressing from working in

the kitchen to earning the position of Assistant Controller before retiring in 2010.

Hira's dedication to his career was matched by his strong commitment to his family and religious

community. In Fiji, Hira served as the Pracharak for the Shree Satya Prakash Ramayan Mandali. A

testament to his passion for fostering spiritual growth and community unity, he was an instrumental leader

in the construction of the Satya Prakash Mandir in Nasole. More recently, as the President of the Shree

Geeta Gyan Ramayan Mandali in the Portland metro area, Hira derived great joy from sharing the

teachings of Hinduism, imparting wisdom, blessings, and an abundance of love to his listeners, earning

him immense respect and admiration within the Indo-Fijian community.

Travel held a special place in Hira's heart, as he sought to create lasting memories with loved ones. He

spent time venturing to various U.S. states and numerous countries including India, the United Arab

Emirates, Australia, Mexico, Jamaica, New Zealand, Canada, Sri Lanka, Oman, Singapore, and the

Philippines. In his later years, Hira took pleasure in spending time on the picturesque coasts of

Washington and Oregon, relishing the company of his children and grandchildren.

Hira is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Shamla Lal; his four children: Hirdesh (Surita), Bebe

(Latif), Ummi (Sanjay), and Vinesh (Sobhna); his eight grandchildren: Radhika (Tyler), Sara (Adnan),

Adil, Neelam, Sharlene, Sonal (Tristan), Tasha (Mark), and Amer; his two great-grandchildren Aziz and

River; his two animal companions Huey and Koda; and his two sisters: Arun Sharma and Josephine Lal.

Hira leaves behind a profound legacy. His unwavering dedication, intelligence, and warmth touched the

lives of countless individuals, and he will be deeply missed by his loving family and the wider

community.

Hira's family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all who have provided support during this difficult time. May

his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to bless all who had the privilege of knowing

him.