Sohan Singh Toor - A journey of resilience, hard work, and family devotion

Sardar Sohan Singh Toor’s life is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the unwavering strength of family.

Born in Village Shankar, Tehsil Jaronwala, District Lyallpur (now part of Pakistan) in undivided India, his early years were shaped by humble beginnings and profound loss. The passing of his father, Bela Singh, when he was just eight years old, left him to grow up with the support of his mother and seven siblings. Despite the hardship, Sohan Singh was determined to continue his education. Attending the local government primary school, he then embarked on the difficult 5 km daily walk to reach middle school, a journey that took him 1.5 hours each way.

The division of India in 1947 brought unimaginable hardship. Forced to flee their home without possessions, Sohan Singh and his family faced the uncertainty of separation during the chaos of the partition. Only three of them managed to board a passing military truck, leaving the rest behind in a moment of great distress. Against all odds, Sohan Singh was reunited with his family in Village Dhaliwal, District Jalandhar, where they found refuge. Though the country was engulfed in violence, Sohan Singh’s family remained safe and reconnected after several days.

In 1948, Sohan Singh began his career with the Indian Railways as a shed cleaner. His dedication and hard work led to his promotion to Fireman Shunter and later to Class “A” Driver. His success didn’t stop there; he was entrusted with the responsibility of training assistant drivers, managing two major loco train sheds in Jalandhar and Ferozepur. With over 35 years of service, he retired in 1983, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and expertise.

On the personal front, Sohan Singh’s life was equally fulfilling. In 1950, he married Sardarni Surjit Kaur, whose support and partnership enriched his life. Together, they raised two sons, Dalvinder Singh Toor and Gurdev Singh Toor, both of whom went on to have distinguished careers in medicine. Dr. Dalvinder Singh Toor, an MBBS, MS, and MD, currently serves as an assistant professor at UBC Vancouver, while Dr. Gurdev Singh Toor, an MBBS graduate with a specialization in Orthopedics, practices in Calgary. Both are highly respected in their respective fields and are revered within the community. Their success is a testament to the values Sohan Singh instilled in them—values of hard work, perseverance, and education.

Both sons married doctors, and the family has been blessed with four grandchildren, three of whom have followed in their parents’ footsteps and are now doctors themselves. In 2001, the family’s journey took an international turn when their eldest son and his family immigrated to Canada. In 2004, Sohan Singh and his wife joined them, embracing the opportunities and security Canada had to offer.

Living in Canada has provided Sohan Singh with a new chapter in life. He enjoys the privileges of clean water and the warmth of living with four generations of his family. Sohan Singh has remained active and healthconscious, walking 9 km every day and enjoying nutritious, home-cooked vegetarian meals. His deep faith remains an integral part of his daily routine, where he prays before sunrise. He volunteered at the local temple and Sexsmith Elementary school, where his great grand children study.

Throughout his life, Sohan Singh has instilled the importance of education, hard work, and moral values in his family. He always believed that investing in the well-being of the next generation is crucial. Drawing from his own life experience, he often shares this valuable message with the young generation: “It is important to take care of your body, eat healthy, and stay active. As per my life experience, I request everyone to invest in their children’s education and health. Give maximum time to your children, as this not only improves the economy of the home but also the country.”

His daily practices of “seva” — selfless service — continue to guide his life and serve as a beacon of inspiration to his children, grandchildren, and community. Sohan Singh’s journey is a beautiful example of perseverance, faith, and the enduring strength of family ties.