A Tribute: Mohinder Mark Singh

TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

PROFI

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

Most merciful God, whose wisdom is beyond our understanding, the death of our brother Mark recalls our human condition and the brevity of our lives on earth. But for those who believe in your love, death is not the end, nor does it destroy the bonds that you forge in our lives. We share the faith of your Son’s disciples and the hope of the children of God. Bring the light of Christ’s resurrection to this time of testing and pain as we pray for Mark and for those who love him. Grant that as we grieve for our brother, we may hold his memory dear and live in hope of eternal kingdom where you will bring us together.

Surround his family with your love that they may not be overwhelmed by their loss, but have confidence in your goodness and strength to meet the days to come. This we ask in Your name. Amen.

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

Memory In Loving

MOHINDER MARK SINGH April 1972 - July 2016

PROFILE

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ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

PICS

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

Messages

from FRIENDS

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

MESSAGES

“

Mark Singh was a great man with a big heart. A loving and caring father. A sincere and dedicated civic leaders. A strategic and hard-working businessman.

A true friend, and good example to everyone.

Mark may have had some physical heart problems in the past; but in my estimation he had a big, healthy heart that functioned just perfectly. His heart went out to the needy, to his friends, to the Rotary Club, and most especially to his family. Mark adored his wife and three children. His face lit up when telling their love story.

For Mark, being a part San Fernando La Union, membership in a civic believed in serving other from a big heart.

of the Rotary Club of Inc. was not just about organization. He really people; and this he did

Mark’s life passion reminds me of, and reflects that of, Jesus Christ: Acts 10:38 “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”

While Mark was President of the Rotary Club, he went around ‘doing good in the world’ just about every day. From delivering wheelchairs to those who could not walk to feeding the hungry and those who had so little. Mark was always compassionate and kind.

We often traveled together around the Philippines, as well as internationally. Mark was truly a fun guy to be with. We learned a lot together; and made a lot of new friends. We talked a lot, ate a lot, laughed a lot, and of course, spent a lot. But Mark lived a full and happy life; doing what he loved, with those he loved, and for those he loved. His big heart still beats strong within our souls.

Immediate Past President Mark Singh will be greatly missed, but not likely forgotten. I thank God for the privilege to have been connected with this great friend and brother; and I celebrate the seemingly short, but certainly overflowing years of his life.

”

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

THE TIES THAT BIND They say that “Love is a universal concept.” I believe that it really is. However, I would like to add that friendship is also a universal concept. It transcends distance and embraces all races, colors, religions and ideologies. Whoever and wherever we are, we acknowledge the fact that we cannot live alone in this world.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs affirmed the importance of the need for belongingness.

This explains why we have friends and we keep others around us. With advancements in modern technology like social media, finding our friends from years back and rekindling memories and friendships is only a few clicks away.

Some have one or two friends but others have a circle or a group. I for one, enjoy the company of different personalities and minds. I am happy to belong to the Rotary Club of San Fernando (LU), Inc. and I am very proud to have fellow Rotarians I consider as my brothers and comrades in this battle called life.

Naturally, when we lose a dear friend, we grieve and surrender to sadness. But after the days of mourning turn to longing, we later on find ourselves in the stage of “holding on.” It is not the physical body to hold on to, but the more important and previous memories that the person left behind.

I, all of us at RCSFLU, Inc., felt like we lost an arm when our buddy, Mohinder “Mark” Singh, passed away. He was an Indian turned Filipino in the Province of La Union. He blended well with our culture, related so much to our provincemates who I am sure will surely miss him in different ways – a principled boss to his employees, successful entrepreneur to his colleagues and friends in the business, and a thoughtful friend to all whose hearts and lives he has touched in different ways. Indeed, we lost not only a Past President, but someone we can consider as “pillar” of our club.

He was the Champion of the “Wheelchair Project” – an undertaking especially dedicated to his mother. During his term, the lives of more or less twenty (20) physically-disabled persons became easier and more comfortable with the wheelchairs donated to them.

Mark implemented this project well. Inspired by his love for his mother, he reached out to Persons with Disabilities and those who were victims of their sicknesses and ailments. With the help and assistance of his Board of Directors, Mark led our club in proving to others that we can be the light in someone else’s life – that a simple wheelchair can go a long way in paving the road of one’s dreams and aspirations.

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

MESSAGES

Mark’s term was also known for the conduct of Anti-Bullying Seminars in different schools. He encouraged our students to be brave and not fall prey to different physical and emotional abuses of others in their schools. The seminars made more people and sectors of the society aware of the impact of bullying in the growth and development of a child. We were inspired to be more concerned, supportive, and loving parents to our children. Most importantly, we were empowered to be fighters of children’s rights in our own ways.

Mark may have gone ahead of us, but his memories will remain with us – his friends and fellow Rotarians. Each of us has our own memory boxes of fun, laughter, sacrifices, fellowship, tours, meetings and a lot more with Mark. Let us treasure everything about him and let him live with us through his good deeds and inspiration.

To Mark, you lived a very good and fulfilled life! Thank you for the friendship and you will forever remain in our hearts.

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

I joined RCSFLU, Inc. just three years ago. In that short amount of time though, I’ve gotten to know Mark very well. We’ve been to three zone institutes together, went to the RI Convention in Seoul together, and had numerous drives together – some just the two of us – together to all the various club and district affairs for three terms.

In all that time, we’ve talked about practically every topic there is to talk about. So when on his induction night, I introduced him as a good friend, and a leader that I would be proud to follow willingly, I really meant it. All that time spent with Mark gave me an insight into the way his mind and his heart worked, and what I saw was a man of great love, affection and generosity. He had great love for everyone in general, but most especially for his family, whom he prioritized above all else.

He spoke fondly, with pride, about his children, and with passion for his wife. His affection with those he considered as friends, who were vast in number, is unusual for the way people generally deal with each other in this present day and age.

I’m proud to have been considered by him as a close friend. We ate a lot together.

He couldn’t believe how much I loved to eat. And I know he cared about me when he started giving me health tips so I could make up for the amount of food I ate. He tried to tell me to eat less, but quickly gave up that idea. Instead, he would remind me constantly about those yoga techniques and other healthy habits that would make up for my love of eating. And often, he would indulge me and join me in my passion for eating – especially if it involved Indian food, or something he’s never tried before that I assured him he would like. That assurance was important, since I also tried to have him eat things that he had never tasted before which he really didn’t like. But he was always a good sport about that. I still remember the time with him and Tim in Kota Kinabalu when his eyes grew big and his mouth formed a surprised “O” when plate after plate of seafood came to our table. We were three

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MESSAGES

people sitting on a table for eight, with food for ten. And all I said was, “it’s okay, I haven’t finished eating yet.” And then I proceeded to finish the food. Since then, he often called me “Peter, Peter, big eater!” but always with a knowing smile and a touch on the shoulder. He was always affirming in those small gestures of touch as well, which I realized was a common Indian custom between close friends. It wasn’t long until we greeted each other with a hug, as much as with a handshake.

He made me feel as if he considered me as a brother, more than as a friend.

We talked often about visiting his home town in the near future. We planned on going in three years. It saddens me to think that such a trip will never happen, because above all, I would have loved to share in his joy as he shared his childhood home and family with mine. Like a true brother, we’ve had our arguments. And like a true brother, he was quick to forgive and understand. He would often offer bits of wisdom, such as an older brother would. But his great humility was in that he never thought himself too proud to ask for advice as well. Sometimes he would ask me for advice, and it honored me to think that of all his friends, he had asked me. He never set himself up as a perfect man. And his candid acceptance of his shortcomings truly just heightened his virtues all the more. Such was his nature as a man. And such was the nature of our friendship, our brotherhood… it was… IS… something that I hold very dear to my heart. It pains me to know that I will no longer hear his laughter, nor his witty banter. I will no longer feel his hand on my shoulder, or the warmth of his smile. I will sorely miss him. But his legacy lives on in the family and friends who will honor his memory in living the way he lived, loving the way he loved, giving of themselves the way he gave. He was a true Rotarian at heart, and more, he was a genuine human being.

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

With deep admiration Dear Mark: Saying goodbye to you now almost seems unreal to me. We often talked about life being short and never knowing what tomorrow would bring, but never did it cross my mind that you would be the one in that situation in the prime of your life.

I owe you so much in my short Rotary life. You were a wonderful example to me of “Service Above Self”. From the day I met you until now, you have been the one person in our Club who was always involved, committed, and enthusiastic about doing things for others, for making our Club a better Club, and for trying to meet every need possible, often taking money from your own pocket to do things you thought would not fit into the Rotary budget.

As we traveled about the District together, it was clear to me that your Classmates and others had a high regard for you as a Rotarian. You were an example to others and it was a tribute to you that so many Clubs wanted to join you as “Sister Clubs”. During the past 24 hours, my Facebook messenger has been filled with tributes from every corner of the District, from Past District Governors, and most often from your Classmates.

Yesterday afternoon as we were on our way to the Manila Centennial Induction my phone rang often from Classmates like Heidelberg from Vigan, Ashok from the Dagupan, and Susan from Angeles Kuliat, expressing their deep sense of loss of losing you at such a young age. I am sure their sense of loss does not hold a candle to that of your wife and children. I simply am at a loss for words to express how sad it is for me to know that they will have to go on in their lives without you.

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

MESSAGES

In the few times I had the opportunity to interact with your family, and hearing one side of a multitude of conversations you had with them when we were traveling together, it was clear to me that you were a wonderful husband, father, and provider for them. Your children often shared with you what they were doing, where they were going, and asked you for permission or advice. I was always impressed with the way you handled these conversations in a loving and respectful manner making me wish I had been able to be that understanding when my children were growing up.

Let me close by saying I will never forget your kindness to me, your example of how to be a Rotarian, and the countless hours we spent together during the past year. Goodbye my friend – may your soul rest in peace.

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

Message IPP Mark has been an epitome of a true Rotarian. Thinking about it recently, he was already sick a few years back, forcing him to back out of impending presidency in RCSFLU, Inc. Even during that time, I saw how he really wanted to serve the club, that he was ready to prove his salt. Unfortunately, his health did not cooperate.

After following orders from his doctors to rest for a few years, he felt he was healthy enough to assume the leadership of the club; the rest as they say is history. IPP Mark gave his all during his Presidency, rarely have I seen such energy coming from a President. He would text you no end about upcoming activities and projects, even if he nary got a reply.

At the end of his term, we joked that he was the only President of the club who lost weight after his term, for all other Past Presidents had gained weight due to the numerous functions that needed to be attended. Little did we know that there was something amiss with him.

What struck me was his dedication to his term; he made sure that he finished his term and all responsibilities that come with it. He made sure that he was able to turn everything over to the next President of the club, including the Gavel of responsibility. Could the stress of all these responsibilities contribute to his demise? Nobody but only the good Lord can answer that.

But if there was anything, I would say that as a President, he was given a purpose, a mission, and he drew energy from the camaraderie between members. He was energized by the smile on the face of each person in whose life he was able to make a difference, and he drew strength from every child whom he helped, whose dreams now drew closer to reaching reality.

Thank you, IPP Mark, for your dedication and for truly making a difference in the community. Thank you for leading the club to unprecedented heights.

Thank you for the friendship that you have freely given. You have left an indelible mark not only in the community you have adopted as your home, but also to the hearts of each and every Rotarian brother in RCSFLU, Inc., and District 3790.

Farewell, IPP Mark!

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

MESSAGES

“A great Rotarian, good friend and dedicated husband and father who left to soon!

You will always be remembered as the Superman you were! You touched the lives of many with your good heart. Farewell my friend! and we will pray for strength to Mylene, the kids and the rest of the family.” - Rtn Carlos & Family

“We will pray much for your departure so that your soul can rest in peace with God. Bon voyage my friend, IPP Mark.” - PP Rey Bonifacio

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

IPP Mark was my fellow member of the City PNP Advisory Council and he never failed to invite me to join the Rotary Club of San Fernando La Union Inc. every time we met. Because of his sincere invitation and persistence, I finally gave in and attended the three meetings which he generously sponsored and the rest is history.

I know him to be a true friend and a real family man. As Rotarian, I saw that he gave everything he got - time, talent and treasure - for the good of the Club and for the benefit of those in need.

As leader, he never failed to notify and encourage us to join every endeavor and he did it in a very personal way as if he is only asking you to personally join him. I believe he has accomplished so much during his term as President, more than an ordinary person can actually accomplish in a lifetime. “Apo Mark, your sincere friendship, your love for your family, your time and fellowship with Rotary and your passion for service above yourself, will always be remembered. May your soul rest in peace!� -Rtn Brenn Paragas

Our club was so blessed with a member who, despite of his Indian descent could still contribute immensely to community upliftment, specifically of the Filipino people. His strong will, sheer determination, hard work, and selfless desire to share his blessings, using his resources and at times shelling out money from his pocket to ensure the success of the project without expecting anything in return has earned the respect of its members and the community we serve. Truly rare traits of a true blooded Rotarian. Rest assured that your legacy will continue as we pursue the projects that you have started. Though you will be missed we are comforted that you are now in the eternal care of our Creator.

-PP Albert Dy

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

“True friends never die” Brother we will be missing you, and you will be remembered always. We LOVE you, Mark .

-Dir. Ric Marquez

MESSAGES

“Mark you being my first president coming into the Rotary, your energy I will always harness, and always reflect on that energy to inspire me to be a good and productive Rotarian...

Salamat po Apo”

-Rtn Lorenzo Hainey

RIP IPP Mark !!! You will be missed, Good job. Well Done !!! -Rtn Robert Brian Lim

MESSAGES

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

When I think of IPP MARK I remember a gentle, humble, generous man. A true shining example of a servant leader; a man who exemplifies SERVICE ABOVE SELF. Gentle because he always had an easy way about him. He was never intrusive when asking for project support but always mindful in his ways especially about his responsibilities in Rotary. He always had a positive way about him that led you to be engaged in whatever it was that he was discussing at the time.

IPP MARK was always a humble man. Even if he was President of our club he never took for granted the power of a kind word and gentle approach. You would always come away with a light heart after speaking with him. He never ceased to be a genuine Rotarian in all the things he said, thought, and did.

IPP Mark was a generous man. He was generous with his time, treasure, and talent. It is not easy to juggle work, family, and Rotary presidency. IPP Mark did it with great ease. You would never sense that he was rushed, hurried, or stressed.

He made it a point to make all the members feel comfortable and special when speaking to the club President. He would make us feel that our efforts were valued and that our feelings were considered.

These qualities made IPP Mark a genuine, special, exceptional Rotarian. The hallmark of a man is not what he did for himself in the time given here on earth but what he has left behind for others to benefit from long after he has departed. For me, IPP Mark will always be an example of a true Rotarian. One that I could only hope to emulate to make myself a better advocate of SERVICE ABOVE SELF. -Rtn Nikki Valero

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------To a person so valued

Your work has always reflected

it’s hard to bid farewell

An overabundance of values

Every person leaves a stamp

You’re giving us as you leave

In this world in their own way

Your absence in RCSFLU

Similarly you too have left

We will heavily bereave

An impression that will stay

Farewell IPP Mark

Integrity and hard work

-Dir Ismael Caasi

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------“Sheer determination, total immersion in the ideals of Rotary and a compassionate heart that is always ready to share with the needy best describe IPP Mark whom I came to be acquainted with just a few years.”

In IPP Mark, I mourn the loss of a true Rotarian and a great Rotary leader.

-PP Aldrico Dy

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TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

PICTURES

PICTURES

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ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

TRIBUTE TO MARK SINGH

PICTURES

Memories of friendship that transcend culture and language... sharing good times and breaking bread with our sister club, the Rotary Club of WonjuJeil, Wonju, South Korea.

ISSUE TRIBUTE 45 VOL TO 56MARK | JUNE SINGH 21, 2016

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Mark’s death.

We grieve knowing that we will remember him and honor the memory of his life.

IN LOVING MEMORY 1972-2016

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