Sundrasen Nainaar

August 28, 1934 – September 7, 2024

 We are mourning the loss of Sundras Nainaar who passed away peacefully on September 7^th, 2024, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Sundras, born in Durban, South Africa was the eldest of 7 brothers. A diligent student with a penchant for learning, he worked hard and was rewarded with a scholarship, being the first in his family to earn a degree. Sundras studied Latin and was in Education when he met his future wife, Marjorie Michael. They married in 1960 and welcomed 3 children, Debbie, Linda, and Jerome.

In 1969, the young family fled apartheid and found a home in Canwood, Saskatchewan. Sundras taught English at the local High School and quickly became respected by colleagues, students, and parents. He loved soccer and shared his passion by coaching. He led the Sr. Boys soccer team to win Canwood High’s first ever Provincial title. This was a very proud moment for Sundras.

Also a valued member of the STF, during his tenor, he held the position of President. Sundras moved up from teacher to Vice Principal and ultimately, to Principal, retiring at the age of 66. In recognition of his 31 years of service, the Canwood School and Community dedicated the Resource Center in his name. The best moments later in his life were spent with his family, especially the moments with Debbie’s kids, Miranda, Michael, and Ben. He and Marge simply adored them.

A former student wrote: “He was one of those rare teachers who listened fairly, taught wisely, and inspired learning. I respected and admired him and counted him as a friend – what a wonderful legacy to leave!” Memoria De valens vivat tamque vestry. (Your memory lives on.)

Rest in peace, Mr. Nainaar.

Sundras is predeceased by his wife of over 50 years, Marge, and his precious great granddaughter, Sophie Gurel (Ben and Katarina). He is survived by his children Debbie, Jerome, and Linda (and Brent Boeckx); his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Miranda (and Aaron Hector, Grace and Claire), Michael Gurel (and Tasha Seeseequasis, Aurora and Oliver), Ben Gurel (and Katarina Knezvic); and his brothers in South Africa, Siva (and Devi) and Joey (and Pam).

Gray’s Funeral Chapel (www.grays.ca) has been entrusted to the arrangements of a closed family gathering. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in memory of Sundras to the Alzheimer’s Society (https://alzheimer.ca/sk/en/take-action/donate) or Heart and Stroke Foundation (https://www.heartandstroke.ca/how-you-can-help/ways-to-give). The Nainaars thank you for your privacy at this difficult time.

Family and friends may leave online condolences at https://grays.ca

Gray’s Funeral Chapel, (306) 922-4729, Lisa Bos-Atchison, Funeral Director.

• Date : 2024-09-07
• Location : Saskatoon, SK