It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Karnel Singh Jawl, who died peacefully and surrounded by family in Victoria on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the age of 92.
Predeceased by his parents Bisa and Tage, brothers Ajit and Sohney and sisters Puge and Jeto, Karnel will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Mindy; children Debra (Rod) and Michael (Kathy); grandchildren Elizabeth (Justin), Christopher, David (Courtney), Jennifer (Girish) and Peter (Chelsey); and ten (soon to be eleven) great-grandchildren. He is also survived by brothers Bob (Devi) and Mohney (Kathy), numerous nieces and nephews and a broad and loving extended family.
Karnel’s story was a remarkable one. Born in Victoria in 1933 to immigrant parents, he shouldered the burden of trying circumstances from an early age. After completing Grade 6 at Tolmie School, Karnel began to work full-time delivering firewood to support his family. With a resolve foreign to most 12-year-olds, Karnel grew this business and laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Home Lumber & Building Supplies, which he founded in 1960 in partnership with his brother Sohney. Karnel’s tireless hard work and tenacity propelled Home Lumber to success and enabled expansion into other business areas, including real estate development with his brothers Bob and Mohney. As the many daily visitors to his office could attest, Karnel took immense pride in his work. He remained a fixture in the office every day (and most weekends) until age 89, when Home Lumber was sold. Karnel’s integrity, humility and respect for others were hallmarks of his career and made him a valued member of the Victoria business community.
Karnel had a true zeal for life. He cherished his relationships with close friends, who frequently featured in his stories about past travels, dinner parties and days spent at the racetrack or on the golf course.
In a life marked by achievements, Karnel’s proudest by far was his family. His love for his wife Mindy was the backbone of a 72-year marriage filled with countless adventures, much laughter and many joyful memories. He was never happier than when he was surrounded by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren during a Sunday dinner at his house or on a family vacation. With generosity and determination, he empowered his family to succeed, relished proudly in their accomplishments and opened doors for generations to come. He was a one-of-a-kind trailblazer that moved his family and his community forward.
The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Karnel’s tremendous care team, including Dr. Ted Bachynsky, Dr. Manjeet Mann, Hazel Sarte, Ingrid Duke and the team at Royal Jubilee Hospital, whose compassionate care in recent weeks was a comfort to Karnel and his family.
A Funeral Service will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, on Thursday, March 5th at 11:00am, with prayers and a light meal in the Langar Hall to follow at the Sikh Temple, 1210 Topaz Avenue, Victoria. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation in Karnel’s honour.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Jawl” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Art Winter
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Richard Lee Dear Mindy, Michael and the Jawl family, We are saddened to hear of Karnel’s passing. Please accept our sincere condolences. Our family was blessed to have Karnel as a dear friend. Our father, Henry had many great stories with Karnel especially at Exhibition Park and Longacres race tracks. We still have and cherish a Smiley’s Dream winner circle photo that Karnel invited Henry to be in. Richard and Rod Lee
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Bonny Billan Dear Mindy, Debra, Michael & all of your families, sending heartfelt condolences on the passing of Karnel, your husband, father & grandfather. Karnel was a true gentleman in every respect and he always had a warm smile for everyone he greeted.
Love & Light Karnel on this next part of your Soul’s journey.
One day you will all meet up again upon a peaceful & beautiful shore.With deepest sympathy,
Bonny Billan & family.
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John arbanas My condolences to family. I never met Mr. Karnel yet knew of all the goodness that his and him contributed to this beautifull greater Victoria and the whole Vancouver Island, I have been a brick block and rock mason going into my 51 year ,I worked for many proud Victorians and many of my clients were not only Canadians but of East Indian background going back to Sikh temple I donated my and my dad’s time to build just two small columns where Sikh temple still stands, thanks to Jaswall and Dave Purwall way back in 1979. I was there just the other day, still looking good, I have no friends but I gave to this community in my masonry work to remember me by, we all built this city, Karnel rest in peace from Canadian -Croatian Victoria mason, John Arbanas
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Sital & Dale Shoker Our Deepest Condolences to all the Family at the passing of Karnel Jawl. He will be deeply missed
by all.
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Russ Walker Karnel was a wonderful, generous Man.
We were honoured to have him call us “Friend”.
We will miss seeing his smiling face at Bill Matticks.
Our heartfelt condolences to Mindy and All his Family.
He will be missed.Russ and Leslie Walker
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Nornan and Jean Pass Dear Michael and family, we were very sorry to hear the passing of your father. Karnel was a very devoted man to his family and highly respected businessman in the community. He will be dearly missed by all. Warmest Regards.
Norm and Jean Pass
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Ingrid (Mars) Jarisz Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Jawl Family on the loss of Karnel, who was an incredible force and trailblazer for the entire family and for the history of Victoria. Some of my happiest and best days were working for the “Jawls” and I always admired and respected your famiy’s roots, determination and achievements which have impacted so many lives including mine. Heartfelt condolences from my family to yours.
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Jag Bains and Dr. Anita Narang Our heartfelt condolences to the Jawl family on the passing of Karnel Singh Jawl. He lived a remarkable life and left a lasting legacy in the Victoria community through his integrity, hard work, and devotion to family.
May his memory continue to inspire all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
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Sean Dhillon & Katy Dhillon Our condolences to the Jawl family.
Karnel was very supportive when I started my construction and and Banking career decades ago, he looked out for me and gave advice where it mattered the most. Over the years we ran into each other at various social events, he was very kind and very supportive often praising my success to other others around him.
You could tell he took pride in seeing his community and his culture succeeding. He was a mentor to many of us, trying to find our way as children of immigrants like himself. My family and I appreciate the good life he led and the example he set for others like us to continue uplifting others and cheering on their accomplishments.
Thank you, Karnel.
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Robert Bains Condolences to the Jawl family,
I worked at Home Lumber for over 25yrs. Karnel was a great boss,he was always good to me and my family.He will be greatly missed
Rob Bains
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Nigel Brown Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Mindy and the entire Jawl family over the loss of Karnel. He was truly admired and loved by so many people. What a legacy he has left for his children, grandchildren and and great grandchildren. Our thoughts are with you all. Nigel and Renza Brown and family
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Jeeto Johal Mindy and family we are very sorry to hear about Karnel’s passing, he will be missed by many.
Jeeto Johal and family
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Charn & Lisa Dear Mindy, Michael, Kathy, Debra, Rod, and the entire Jawl family,
We are saddened by the loss of Karnel. May you find comfort in memories of his remarkable life and the love he leaves behind.
With deepest sympathy.Charn & Lisa
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Bill Irvine Condolences to Debbie, Rod, Michael, Kathy and the entire Jawl family.
One evening back in 1993 my friend John and I pulled into the golf course parking lot in my new Mercedes. Karnel was standing in the driveway. He and John were good friends.
John was driving and put his window down and asked: “Are you parking the cars?”
Karnel smiled and replied: “I’ll park it alright — in that lake over there!”
Karnel had a quick wit and always tried to find humour in any situation. He was a fine man and good fella to get to know. May he rest in Peace.
Bill & Bernice Irvine
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Christina Bhalla Heartfelt condolences from our family to yours. What a legacy he built and leaves behind, and many memories for those he knew to cherish always.
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Roop Jawl My father worked closely with Karnel at the yard throughout his career, and our family appreciated the professionalism and, more importantly, the care shown over the years. I also remember visiting the yard and office as a child and always being welcomed kindly, memories that have stayed with me. Our condolences to the Jawl family, and best wishes as you remember a life well lived.
Roop, Harinder, Joginder, and Surjit Jawl and family
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rick sidhu Heartfelt condolences to the Family, Friends and Business associates of Karnel. One of the last Pioneers/Trailblazers in the Lumber Business. Over the past 25 years Uncle and I have had more than a few “discussions” over a dime or quarter cent on what a sheet of plywood should be priced at. Pretty sure I was on the losing end most times. Karnel was the epitome of hard work, resolve and compassion. I learned something every time Karnel and I spoke or met. Karnel’s trademark hanging up of the phone whenever a deal was confirmed will be forever missed.
Rick Sidhu
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Franc D'Ambrosio and Erica Sangster Erica, Franc and everyone at DAUSTUDIO send our deepest condolences to the Jawl family on the loss of Karnel. His professionalism and joy in his work will continue to inspire those who worked with him in our industry.
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Ruth Lorette Hickling Dear Mindy, Deborah, Michael, Leslie, Janice and Mohney..all the family I remember so well from 48th Avenue in Vancouver, plus the rest of the grieving family I don’t know as well, my very deepest condolences on the loss of Karnel. My heart also reaches out to you for the loss of Jeto and Puge. I did not know God had called them home and I am so saddened, How I remember the incredible smells in Jeto’s kitchen and trying to learn to make naan. I could have come across any of you there. What a beautiful, huge and loving family. I know Karnel’s smile will continue to be felt in your hearts. May you feel held by Love and Light during your long journey of healing,
With Love,
Ruth Hickling
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David Aujla As a consequence of his remarkable accomplishments, executed with grace, dignity and humility, Karnel became the unspoken leader representing the cultural and historical transformations of the Punjabi people of Western Canada and leaving for us, and succeeding generations, the best and most honourable standards to emulate. For this we are grateful.
Sheila and David Aujla
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Ray Pauwels Dear Mohney,
My most sincere condolences on the passing of your brother, Karnel. As you will recall I was a supplier of lumber products to Home Lumber during the late 60’s and early 70’s during my employment with B.C. Forest Products and Ralph S. Plant Ltd. Karnel was a tough but fair negotiator. Everytime I consumated a deal with Karnel I always wondered how much money I had left on the table. He was a good man and a giant in the building products industry on Vancouver Island. He left a massive footprint.
May he rest in peace.
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Ranjit Baines My heartfelt condolences to the family.
He was always gracious and kind, and his gentle nature will be remembered. May his memory be a blessing.
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Bob Bell Dear Mohney, Bob and the entire Jawl family,
So sorry to learn of Karnel’s passing. He was certainly a pillar of the construction community and beyond. In years past there were instances when I counted on the advice and, when necessary, the assistance from the Jawl family, and to this day hold you all in the highest regard.
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Randy & Wendy Sangha Dear Mindy, Debra, Michael & family: I met Karnal at the early age of 18 while driving for Futura Transport. I remember the kindness, encouragement and respect that he extended to me as a nervous young driver. I recall his frequent presence at the Red Lion coffee shop enjoying time served by Assie Bains. He was a man of integrity and honesty. His generous contributions to the community will never be forgotten. Heart felt sympathy and our condolences.
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Jurgen and Angelika Weyand Karnel made a difference in many lives. Please accept our sincere condolences to the Jawl family. May he Rest In Peace.
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Michael Johal Kernel was a gracious, kind, generous man always welcoming , approachable , down to earth, with a sense of humour.
He was a hardworking, practical dedicated businessman, who achieved outstanding success.
Kernel was a pioneer not only for his family, but a role model for the community , and his help and wise counsel helped many others to a successful life.
He will be always be lovingly remembered and missed .
To be loved, remembered and respected is the greatest legacy any person can wish for and in his case throughly deserved.
We shall all miss him dearly!
Peter and Michael Johal and family.
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Doug Regimbal Mindy& Family Condolences to you and family.Karnel was the most honest and man with a big heart although he tried not to show it. I knew him from when he started up with Home Lumber on Esquimalt Rd. across from the round house.Spent many years hauling out of the yard to job sites.Then in 1999 I went to work for Home Lumber and I can say that Karnel without a doubt was the best boss I ever had.He cared about every worker he had and he will be missed by all.
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Bev Highton Dearest Mindy and the extended Jawl Family, the many accolades about Karnel written by so many of his friends and associates attest to how Karnel was loved and respected by all who knew him.
Please accept Pam and my deepest condolences on his passing.
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Harry Hitchman Condolences to Debbie, Rod, Michael, Kathy and the entire Jawl family. I was saddened to hear the news of Karnel’s passing. What a life story & legacy!!
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Dennis Dale To the Jawl family. I was a customer of Home Lumber and knew Karnel for over 30 years. I found him to be a true gentleman. In his business dealings he was fair, honest and reliable and always personable. He, and the Jawl family, are very much a big Victoria success story and Karnel and the family have left a legacy of quality projects for all Victorians. Victoria is poorer with his passing. My sincere condolences. Dennis Dale, Fairwest Construction Co. Ltd.
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Rob Jawanda Dear Mindy and the entire Jawl Family.
We are so sorry for your immense loss.
Karnal was truly a remarkable man who we knew as deeply devoted to his family, committed to his community, and always ready to support when needed. He had a quiet strength and generosity that touched so many lives and always showed up with kindness, loyalty, and sincerity.
He made people feel valued and cared for, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a dear friend of our family for over 60 years, and he will not be forgotten.
Please know that the family are in our thoughts during this difficult time. May the love he gave and the many lives he uplifted bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Bhagwant, Harbhajan, Rob and Kristen Jawanda
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Shellie Gudgeon I have admired Karnel and Mindy Jawl for my entire adult life. Beginning at Quadra Courthouse 45 years ago where I served them for the first time. They were and are absolute pillars of the community, always leading with heart, integrity, great wisdom and above all kindness. My respect never wavered but only grew over time. He touched my life without him even knowing, he is a legend. An amazing man. We were very lucky to have him in Victoria where he quietly and relentlessly modelled what a healthy, successful and livable community looks like.
My deepest sympathy to his loved ones.
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Randi Masters Dear Mindy, Debbie, Michael & Families…I was truly saddened to learn of Karnel’s passing. I recall many happy memories of Karnel and the family from years gone by. He truly walked through his life giving respect and kindness to all he met…a wonderful and enduring legacy. My heartfelt sympathy to you all. Randi Masters
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Rob and Shirley Hunter Karnel was a man of integrity. A handshake on a deal with Karnel was a promise made and a promise kept.
He had a sweetness to him and a kindness but also a moral code that was inflexible.
He could be implacable when he found injustice or lack of care especially to the very young or the elderly.
He loved his family. He gave quietly, and generously to the community. He will be missed.
Rob and Shirley Hunter
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Rishi Sharma and family Amy and I feel very lucky to have shared a conversation with you just weeks ago at the clubhouse. We were so happy that Sophia was able to meet you and then hear about your accomplishments from us throughout our lunch. You have always treated me with so much kindness. I appreciated every moment and every piece of advice you offered to me while sitting in your office at the yard. Your guidance and support during the provincial and municipal elections was priceless. You have been in our thoughts and your impact on our whole community will be cemented in our heads and hearts forever. Respect, sir. I was so lucky to have met and had time with you. From me, Amy, our Jawl and Sharma families, thank you. Sincerely.
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Don King Mindy and Family
It is with a sad heart that I write this note. I first met Karnel in the early seventies. He was always very kind and a true gentleman.
He will be missed by all who knew him.
Rest In PeaceDon King
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Ajmare Sundher Dear Michael, Debra, and family
Our condolences on the loss of your father. He was a man of integrity and quiet strength. Our parents, Nim and Gurdeep, spoke of Karnel with the highest regard and respect. Your dad made many quiet and indelible contributions to the community which he did in his own gentle way and not expecting anything in return. Anytime Karnel saw you, he made you feel special and valued the conversation.
Your dad has left a lasting and memorable impression for which we are all grateful. Our community is that much richer because of Karnel.
Ajmare and Rajan Sundher and family
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Harjindar grewal Karnel was a very kind, soft spoken, humble man. He was liked and respected by many people, especially the east indian community. He was a loving father and grandfather. His love for his family is endless. Mindy, Michael and Debra, you are lucky he was in your life. Lots of love to you all, god bless.
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Robert Remy Dear Mindy and the entire Jawl Family
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Karnel. Please accept our most heartfelt condolences during this profoundly difficult time.
Our thoughts are with you and your entire family as you navigate this loss. We hope you may find strength in the love that surrounds you and comfort in the many memories you shared together.
With our deepest sympathy and respect,
Robert and Claudia Remy and the whole Black Goat Cashmere Team.
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Geoff Courtnall To the Jawl family ! Karnel will be missed by so many people whose lives he touched! The hardest working kindest man I have ever met! Dedicated to his family and friends! He wanted the best for everyone and helped so many people in our community! His positive outlook on life was a joy to be around !
Thank you For being in my life !!
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Russ Reynolds I am so grateful to have known Karnel as a friend. He was an amazing, kind, and generous man who radiated charm, class and love. You could call him at Home Lumber anytime of the day and he would almost always answer.That personified who he was, steady, solid and always striving. He started with nothing and finished with everything! He loved his family, friends and his life. Knowing him was a priviledge, honour and something I will always cherish. He really was that special person, not one in a million, but one in a billion.
My deepest condolences to his beautiful family, all the Jawls and his 2nd family the Johnstons. — Karnel was truly one of a kind!
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Sindy Patterson My dear Mindy, Debra, Michael, Bobby, Mohney, Our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your Karnel. Such a kind beautiful loving and giving soul whose presence radiated on this earth. What a legacy he left!
I cherish the memories of the wonderful times spent with your lovely family during those early years. Thank you so much, Mindy.
Karnel will be so missed.
Blessings, sympathy and forever love to you all.
Sindy, Amir, Vicki/Rick, Neil. Grandchildren-Eva, Reed and Neena.
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Cathy Clackson I feel very fortunate to have cared for Karnel in his home after his back surgery. His tenacity to get back to work and family was his driving force. He cared more about his wife than he did about himself. I loved his story of how he built his empire and hope this is in writing some in his home. What a gracious and caring person. Life well lived! May my condolences go out to all his family especially Mindy. RIP
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Dr Michael and Denise Vaughan and Family Our hearts go out to the entire Jawl Family, but especially to Mindy, Michael and Debbie and families! we will always remember Karnel for his gentleness, kindness and love of all things family! Our Love and condolences, Dr Michael and Denise Vaughan and Family
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Del Manak Karnel was a special person. He was kind, generous & lived his life to the fullest. When I became Chief at VicPD, he would always give me good advice, share his wisdom & talk sports. I knew he cared deeply about my leadership and all officers serving their communities. Every year he made a very generous donation to the Special Olympics BC Polar Plunge for which I’m grateful. I will miss him dearly as will anyone who knew him.
Sending heartfelt condolences to his family & loved ones.
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Doreen Ross What an inspiring and wonderful legacy Karnel has left with his family. You are all so fortunate to have had this man in your life.
Condolences to all. Doreen Ross.
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Wayne Farey On behalf of all of us at Campbell Construction Ltd , we are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Karnel.
Karnel and the Jawl family shared not only a business relationship with us all, but also a friendship for well over 60 years.
Karnel since his recent retirement, has been truly missed.
I miss my market and economic updates and just good conversations. Karnel always had his hand on the pulse in the construction industry, and provided information as a friend which helped immensely to assess market conditions, along with who not to do business with. To say the least a very smart businessman with a heart of gold.Rest in peace Karnel
Wayne, Ken , Archie
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Russ Courtnall To the entire Jawl Family. I loved Karnel, he was a great man and friend. He did so many great things for our community, he’s admired and loved by many. I will never forget Karnel and the times we spent together. I’m so sorry for your loss. God Bless, Russ Courtnall and Family
I was very sorry to hear of Karnel’s passing, he was a lovely man and I always enjoyed having a quick chat with him when I was down at Home Lumber. He will be missed.