SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Nazar Hussain

Honourable senators, I rise today with a heavy heart to give tribute to my good friend of 30 years Nazar Hussain, an outstanding member of the community.

When I found out he was not well, I went to see him. I was shocked when he told me, “My time on earth is done, but I am at peace with it.” I find that to be extraordinarily brave, but then again, bravery has been the hallmark of his life.

Nazar joined the Pakistani army as a young man of 18 and served for nearly 20 years, but in 1977, he immigrated to Canada. It was a courageous undertaking, moving to another country with his wife and children.

From humble beginnings, Nazar was able to build a thriving restaurant business across Ontario, extending from the Greater Toronto Area to Kingston. He became actively involved in many civic, political and philanthropic organizations, both here in Canada and in Pakistan.

Honourable senators, Nazar has been diagnosed with cancer, and I struggle to express my sorrow at the thought of his imminent passing and losing a friend. Yet, even now, in this condition, his bravery shines through. He has asked all his friends to drop by, and there are always over 50 people in his home any given day, gathered together to break fast, as it is the month of Ramadan.

When my children heard about Colonel Nazar — Uncle Nazar, as they call him — being ill, they said, “We have to go and see him.” My daughter from Iqaluit made sure she came to Toronto so she could say goodbye too.

When I witnessed the people in his home, I thought, “This is Nazar — always bringing people together, opening his home, making everyone feel welcome.”

Even now, he still manages to crack a few jokes. When I told him about this tribute, he said, “I don’t know if I’ll be alive by then.” I insisted that he would be.

So I stand here today, colleagues, to pay tribute and to let him know how much he is loved, respected and appreciated by the people who had the privilege of knowing him and calling him a friend.

Nazar will leave behind his beloved wife, Rehana, his sons, Atif, Khurram and Taimur, and nine grandchildren, who I hope will grow up hearing about the legacy he left behind: a legacy of courage, perseverance and giving back.

Thank you.