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
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49 Responses
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!!
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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 Peace
Don King
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
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.