chandra BodaliaChandra Bodalia beloved and well known photojournalist has passed away at the age of 68 at 8:57am, May 24th, 2017 in Vancouver General Hospital, ending his long and brave battle with throat cancer.
Chandra Bodalia was a great man who brought the world to people through his images. He was a man who gained respect from many and will be missed. His passion for photography knew no limits, and his passing is a great loss for the whole South Asian community.
He is survived by his loving wife Nirmilla Bodalia; parents Nagindas Bodalia and Chanchalben Bodalia; daughter Mona Bodalia-Dale and son-in-law Richard Dale; son Vimal Bodalia; grandchildren Thomas Arjai Dale and Isaiah Nathaniel Dale; as well as siblings Vinod Bodalia, Bhartiben Gandhi and Jayesh Bodalia.

Prayer: will be held at VHP temple in Burnaby this Friday, May 26th from 7 – 8 pm.

Funeral: Services will take place on Wednesday, May 31st, at 1:00 pm at Riverside Funeral Home, 7410 Hopcott Road, in Delta. In lieu of flowers, please use one of the following links to donate to the charities that were close to his heart. A donation box will be made available at the funeral.
BC Children’s Hospital Foundation:
https://secure.bcchf.ca/SuperheroPages/main.cfm…
BC Cancer Foundation:
http://donate.bccancerfoundation.com/site/TR/Events/Fuse…

Remembrances:

Micheal de Jong: We lost a good friend and member of the community, Chandra Bodalia. Chandra was a cheerful and faithful recorder and compiler of the pictorial history of the South Asian community throughout the lower mainland. From Vaisakhi celebrations, to weddings, to events, and functions, he would be there with his shutter clicking – recording and preserving the memories of generations.

Chandra didn’t distinguish between royalty and regular folks, devoting the same care and attention to all the people and scenes he photographed. As one who knew hard work and sacrifice, he believed it important that the work and sacrifices of others be recorded and acknowledged. Through his lens he caught the smiles and tears of a generation.

I was proud to call Chandra my friend, and he will be missed by so many of us. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with his family and many friends.

Linda Hepner: Very sad to hear of Chandra Bodalia’s passing. He was a rare and special photojournalist and my condolences go out to his many friends and colleagues. He will be greatly missed.

Jatinder Jay Minhas: Very saddened to know that great community person, amazing friend, very kind gentle humble person, Chandra Bodalia is no longer with us. We will miss him on every occasion. May he rest in peace.

Anita HubermanRaj Bhan and Indra BhanChandra Bodalia, the Surrey Board of Trade will miss you. You were a great friend to Surrey’s business community.

Bina Anjum: Chandra Bodalia “The Smile Catcher” passed away. A Special friend who was loved by many communities. The Man who put smile on many faces. We will miss you. Rest in Peace with your best friend, Bruce Kehler.

Mona Bodalia Dale: Daughter Chandra Bodalia: When I got married in 2009, my dad said to me “maybe I won’t take pictures at your wedding, I’ll ask someone else to do it” He wanted to enjoy the day. He was so proud that day.
My dad peacefully passed away, after a long, painful but courageous battle with throat cancer. God has called him home. He fought so hard. He was 68 years old. My strong and dedicated mom was alongside with him for every appointment, every chemotherapy. They are my heroes.
He loved his work, he was an artist and a photographer. He met many people in his life. Politicians, musicians, singers but his dearest and greatest joy were his grandchildren Thomas and Isaiah. He spoiled them every day. He loved them with his whole heart.
Dad, we love you. You are at peace. God’s grace is upon you. You are clicking away in heaven now. Go dance like you did all those times.

Vimal Bodalia: Son: It is with a heavy heart that I’m sharing the passing of my father. He passed, peacefully, at Vancouver General Hospital after his long and hard fought battle with throat cancer. The family is overwhelmed with the support and love that has been shared by family, friends and the community today. He was an incredible father / husband / brother and friend. His life accomplishments have brought so many people together and he has captured so many smiles! We are so proud of him and will miss him so much! I love you Dad, may your pain and suffering be over so you can rest in paradise!

Rick Dale: Son in-Law: I’ve always been in awe of your commitment to the community and your family. The pure joy when you were around your grandchildren was obvious. You’ve documented our life as a family and I can’t believe this chapter is over and the hole we have in our hearts. You fought so hard but now it’s time for you to rest in peace. Love you Dad!

Photos: Times of Canada & Aziz Ladha Photography

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