Dr. Cassim A. Bhabha, born in Ermelo, South Africa, Jan. 14, 1935, passed away on Nov. 3, 2022, at Sunnybrook Hospital surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Hava (née Kara). Adored father of Feroza, Shameem (Hamid), Faizel and Fahmida. Cassim (nana/dada) will also be missed by his grandchildren, Firas, Nadine, Zaahir, Suraya, Faisal, and Azhar. He was so very proud of them. He will also be lovingly remembered by his entire extended family in South Africa, especially his nieces and nieces-in-law, who took such great care of him whenever he returned to South Africa on holiday.
Cassim graduated from Witwatersrand Medical School in 1962; a considerable achievement as the university under apartheid only admitted a couple of "Indian" students per year. He then practiced medicine in Bakerton (Springs), a small township where he served "non-white" communities. In 1968, he and his young family immigrated to Canada to escape apartheid and start a new life. A dedicated family physician, he cared deeply about his patients, many of whom he mentored. Many became lifelong friends. He was generous and took great satisfaction in helping others. He never forgot the hardships and indignities "non-whites," and especially the poor, suffered under the cruel and oppressive apartheid regime. This, together with his faith, made him deeply passionate about social justice. Cassim was a proud Muslim but was never dogmatic or judgmental.
He was involved in his community and proud of the work of IDRF, a charity he helped to re-establish. Ever the optimist, he had a good sense of humour. He was a sun worshipper who loved winter holidays. He was also an avid golfer who enjoyed trips with his golf buddies. Cassim had an impact on so many lives, as evidenced by the many notes and calls the family has, and continues to receive expressing condolences and grief over his passing. Among his few regrets was that he was not able to return to his beloved South Africa one last time. The pandemic and his recent health setbacks prevented that wish. He also wished he could have done more during his lifetime to uplift the less fortunate in this world. He will forever be in our hearts. Memorial donations may be made to IDRF.