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Amrik Prihar
November 15, 1946 - November 6, 2014
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Amrik Prihar passed away suddenly on Thursday, November 6tth , 2014 in his home in Duncan, BC where he has lived for 42 years. He was born in Bahadurgarh, Punjab, India on November 15, 1946. Amrik was the son of a school Headmaster. Amrik excelled academically and completed his Master`s degree at age 21. He became a professor of English and taught at Banga College. Amrik migrated to Vancouver, Canada, thereafter to marry his loving wife of 45 years, Harjeet, in 1970. They moved to Vancouver Island to begin a new life. In difficult racially charged times, Amrik worked long days and night shifts in a lumberyard in Chemainus, BC at the same time travelling to the University of Victoria to earn his teaching degree in English Literature. Amrik was inspired with continuing education and learning as he later obtained additional degrees from the University of British Columbia, University of Western Washington, and San Diego State University. Amrik taught in several schools in Victoria and Cowichan Valley. He retired after teaching at Captain Meares School in Tahsis, BC where he worked for 36 years. During this time, his career flourished as he not only headed the English Department, but achieved A+ results in Provincial exams for his students year after year. In addition Amrik was heavily involved with the Tahsis Lions Club and acted as President for a term where he helped raise thousands of dollars to aid families and children in Isolated Communities. He was awarded the prestigious Excellence in Teaching award in 2005 on Parliament Hill, in Ottawa, Canada. Amrik retired from teaching in 2006 and quickly became involved in Cowichan Valley educational projects. In particular, Amrik served on the Board of Directors for the Literacy Now Cowichan Society. Amrik was appointed by the Ministry of Health as a Health Regulator for the College of Opticians of BC and worked with University of Victoria’s Faculty of Education in its teacher training program. In retirement, Amrik remained dedicated to his life long mission of improving the quality of children’s education and preparing young adults to become passionate, caring, contributing citizens. Amrik was hired by the BC Ministry of Education to create, and later grade BC Provincial English exams. He helped to create the Punjabi curriculum for the Ministry and implemented it into schools across B.C. Amrik has served on countless panels and boards, to enhance the quality of education. From addressing bullying in schools, race relations, curriculum development, to administration, Amrik was relentless in his efforts to make a difference. Many of you recognize Amrik`s face from the news as an elected school trustee for the Cowichan School District.He will be missed so much, as he cared so much, with an honest and pure heart. Amrik is survived by his loving wife, Harjeet Prihar, beloved brother, Surjeet Prihar, his precious son and daughter, Malik Prihar and Monica Parmar, and beautiful grandchildren, Neyha and Navin Parmar, his brother, sisters, and son-in-law, Sunny Parmar. Amrik`s service is on his birthday this Saturday, November 15th at 11:00 AM at New Life Baptist Church in Duncan, BC. n lieu of flowers, donations to Literacy Now will be greatly appreciated: Literacy Now, Cowichan 213B-80 Station Street, Duncan BC V9L 1M4
Condolences
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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre Staff
H.W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre Staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Debora Barnett
Relation: As a teacher to both my children Troy and Tricia Skinner in Tahsis BC
Amrik was an exceptional man. I will remember him as always having a smile on his face. He will truly be missed.
From: Kristina Miloje
Relation: I was his student
Amrik Prihar was one of my favourite teachers. He taught his students how to understand English literature even if it wasn’t one of their favourite subjects. He did this by relating to his students and making connections between his students and the stories. He took the time to get know his students as people and genuinely cared about their success and happiness. Me and my fellow students were truly blessed to have known such a great educator and friend. He was and will always be an inspirational person and I am glad to have known him. My deepest condolences to his family.
From: Dale Elder
Relation: he was a teacher at the school I attended as a kid
So sorry to hear of Mr.Prihar’s passing.I remember as a student in 1978 seeing him arriving as a teacher.I never had Mr. Prihar as a teacher but over the years he did teach my son and did alot for him for which I shall never forget.My Condolence’s to his family, may he rest in peace
From: Jennifer Ostlund
Relation: Mr. Prihar was one of my teachers.
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Prihar and family. Mr. Prihar was one of my teachers throughout my high school years at Captain Meares. He truly was one of my favorite teachers and I am so saddened to hear of his passing. He was my teacher from 1978-1982.
From: Genny Watson Quintal
Relation: My english teacher at Captain Meares
It is with great sadness I receive this news. I send my condolence and prayers to his family. I am proud to say Mr.Prihar was my English teacher and a huge inspiration to me. I couldn’t wait to get to English class after lunch, he was so much fun; I am sure I speak for all of us when I say we had some awesome laughter learning Shakespear… I will always remember him as an understanding and patient man! He was always kind and happy, with a smile on his face…He was a great teacher he enjoyed teaching his kids and it showed with all their exceptional marks in English class.May you rest in Peace Mr. Prihar, I will meet you on the other side! God bless your family and friends!!
From: Duane and Andrea Collinson
Relation: Relationship - How did you know the deceased?
We remember Mr Prihar as our teacher in Tahsis many years ago. He was a great Mentor and will be remembered for all the positive influences he had for all of his students. Sending our thoughts and condolences to his family.
From: Sue Ostlund
Relation: I had the privilege of working with him in Tahsis.
Sending our deepest heartfelt condolences to the family. We are so sorry for your loss. Amrik was a very caring and friendly person who will truly be missed
From: Amanda Comeau
Relation: He was my highschool teacher
Words cannot express how greatful I am to have had him in my life for even a very short amount of time. He was a truly remarkable man who touched so many lives. I have many cherished memories of him as my teacher in Tahsis. Some of the lessons he taught were academic, some were not and I honestly can’t remember all of them. However, even for the 4 short years that I had the pleasure of knowing him I can’t help but think that he had a very big role in helping me become the person I am today. His memory will live on in each of us. Many condolences and prayers to the Prihar family.
From: Kimberley Anderson
Relation: worked with hime at Captain Meates in Tahsis.
Condolences to the Prihar family during this difficult time. I worked with Amrik or “Prince Prihar” as he use to refer himself at Captain Meares. We shared many stories in the hallways, staffroom and the weight room for these memories I am thankful. He will always be remembered in Tahsis for his love of education.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
Date & Time:
November 15, 2014
Beginning at 11:00am
Location:
New Life Baptist Church
1839 Tzouhalem Road
duncan, BC Canada
1839 Tzouhalem Road
duncan, BC Canada
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
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