Harjit Bahia - Science teacher and colleague from Garibaldi died August 2, 2024

You will be missed Mr. Bahia.  You made a difference and we are sad you are gone.

I keep in loose contact with my fellow retired teachers from Garibaldi Secondary School.  I talked with my long-time friend, Mike Lynch, today, and discovered that Hargit died over the summer.  Unbeknownst to him, he had an underlying heart condition and passed away after working out on his treadmill.  The date was August 2, 2024.

I was shocked to hear this.  He was only 49 years old, turning 50 some 3 months later.  It was a shock to everyone, for he was loved by all who knew him.  As a teacher, Mr. Bahia was kind and fun.  He contributed to students in many ways and was always available to help those in need.  

For myself, I knew him as a fellow science teacher and taught in the adjoining room to him.  He was always available to help, share ideas, and work together.  Easy to approach, I found that I could talk to him about anything and appreciated how much he made Garibladi a better place.

Hargit used to come to me to help design and print birthday cards for his family.  I didn't know any of his loved ones, but it was apparent to me that he did indeed love them very much.  I can't imagine the pain of their loss.  My own father died two years ago and I still get a lump in my throat thinking about it.  I am very sorry for their loss.  I am sure he was an amazing father and husband.

I just wanted to say that I am very saddened by his death.  The loss of any teacher/parent/husband is always tragic, but for one so young and loved, it is all the more tragic.  My heart goes out to all those who feel the loss, and will no doubt feel it for a long time to come.  I wish you all peace.

I am sad for you all.

Eric Svendsen

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