Jasminder Kaur Bachu (20 Jan 1936 - 18 Dec 2019)

In loving memory of Jasminder Kaur Bachu who sadly passed away on 18th December 2019

Jasminder was the youngest child of Permesar Kaur (nee Sagoo) and Kapoor Singh Sohal, born on 20th January 1936 in Jalandhar, India. She had three sisters and two brothers, and as the youngest in her family, Jasminder was very much loved and thoroughly spoilt by all around her. She lost her father at the tender age of 5 years and had an exceptionally strong bond with her mother. She once related that if there was one moment in her life that she could return to, then it would be to nestle in her mother’s lap, as this was her happiest and care-free time in her life.

On 16th May 1956 Jasminder married Jaswant Singh Bachu and set up home in Arusha, Tanzania. They were a beautiful couple, devoted to each other and had a loving marriage lasting 34 years until his demise. Losing her husband broke Jasminder’s heart and not a day passed without her remembering him and missing his presence by her side.

Whilst living in Africa, Jasminder started her family and had five children: Ravinder, Kalvinder, Srinder, Jaspal and Kamaljeet, before moving the whole family to London in September 1970. As a mother she bestowed her love unconditionally and she was always willing to forgive and embrace all her children irrespective of the mistakes they made. Over the years, Jasminder’s family further expanded with the addition of eleven grandchildren (six girls and five boys) and two great grandchildren, Dhillon & Maya. She was grateful for all the love she received from the grandchildren and as a grandparent she was able to forge special relationships with each and every one of them. In her latter days, Dhillon and Maya in particular filled her with genuine joy, and her face would light up at the mention of their names.

Sadly 14 years ago, Jasminder lost her daughter Kalvinder and experienced subsequent family turmoil. However, despite enduring the many losses of loved ones in her life and the emotional upheavals Jasminder faced, she showed remarkable resilience and fortitude. She knew of the importance of talking openly with friends and family to help and support each other through tough times and those who knew her well, confided in her and sought comfort from her experience and wisdom.

It didn’t matter where Jasminder lived, whether in a different continent or a different city, as she had the amazing ability to accumulate friends wherever she went. Always chatting and yet always ready to listen to other’s woes and offer support with her warm and caring ways. Jasminder was a gregarious person and had a playful cheekiness which endeared her to many of her friends and family. Her light may be dimmed for now however memories of Jasminder will burn bright in all who had the privilege of knowing her.