Obituary of Prem Chandra Consul

August 10, 1923 – Mudaffra, Uttar Pradesh

June 16, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Dr. Prem Chandra Consul (Papa), on June 16, 2023. Papa departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and cherished memories.

Papa was born on August 10, 1923, in Mudaffra (Uttar Pradesh), India. Born in a small village with very high life aspirations, Papa’s ambition, work ethic, and determination was admirable. Throughout his life, he impacted the lives of all those that had the privilege to have known him. He was an incredible man who lived a meaningful life filled with purpose, integrity, and self-discipline.

As a life-long educator and having taught for many years in India and then Libya, Papa arrived with his young family to Calgary, Alberta in 1967, by invitation from the University of Calgary. He was invited to serve as one of the inaugural professors in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and proceeded to leave his mark and a lasting impression in the lives of students, colleagues, friends and acquaintances. His extensive research in Statistics was recognized globally and this resulted in the publication of several of his books. As a renowned researcher, his work was prominent in statistical journals and often referenced by colleagues in other Universities.

Papa was an early pioneer in the Indian community and one of the founders of Calgary Hindu Temple. His wisdom and guidance were sought by many, and he was always ready to listen and offer sage advice.  Papa was always ready to provide home-cooked meals and a place to stay for many newly-arrived immigrant families. Despite having lived abroad for 62 years, India was always Papa’s home.  He will be remembered for his philanthropic, educational-based initiatives in rural villages in India.  His desire was always to create opportunities to enable growth and development for the impoverished to allow for the overall betterment of life in the village.

As a proud Hindu and an active member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) organization, Papa fought for India’s Independence, alongside his fellow freedom fighters and loved to share his many experiences with his children. Papa was dedicated to his family and a loving husband to Shakuntla Consul (predeceased) and together, with their unconditional love, unwavering support, and guidance, they created a nurturing and loving home for their precious five children: Kalpna Gupta (Padam), Piyush Consul (Ritu), Gita Consul, Jyoti Myers (Michael), and Harish Consul. He instilled in them the values of a strong work ethic, resilience, and kindness. As a grandfather, he adored his 13 grandchildren and looked forward to their regular visits and loved hearing about their dreams and goals. “Babaji/Nanaji” led by example and seized every opportunity to impart his wisdom, offer his guidance and inspired his grandchildren to reach for the stars and to “work hard and always put forth your best effort” towards the attainment of their goals. As a great-grandfather, he took immense joy in being able to recently hold his newly arrived, great-granddaughter.

May his departed soul find eternal peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. Rest in peace Papa, knowing that you were deeply loved and will be forever missed.

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A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bearspaw Golf Club (61 Hamilton Drive, Calgary, AB T3R 1A2), on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

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In living memory of Dr. Prem Chandra Consul, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area.