Obituary of Habib-ur-Rehman Hafiz-Zadeh

It is with deep sadness and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of our dearly respected Habib-ur Rehman Hafiz Zadeh Sahib of Brantford Jamaat, who peacefully departed this world in his sleep on the morning of Saturday, May 17th, 2025, in his 84th year.
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ
“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of love and service. He is survived by his five devoted children — Safi-ur-Rehman Sahib, Habiba Sahiba, Rashida Sahiba, Farida Sahiba, and Masooda Sahiba — as well as 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins. His final days were spent peacefully, surrounded by close family in Brantford, Ontario.

Respected Habib-ur Rehman Sahib was a pioneer member of the Brantford Jamaat, serving the community with dedication for over 51 years, alongside his late wife, Respected Amtal Nasir Sahiba. A devout Ahmadi Muslim, he accepted Ahmadiyyat at a young age at the blessed hand of Khalifatul Masih II (ra) in Rabwah, Pakistan.

He served faithfully as General Secretary of Brantford Jamaat for more than 20 years and was one of the founding members of the World Religions Conference (WRC), which began in Brantford in 1981. Today, it stands as the longest-running multi-faith conference in Canada — a testament to his vision and leadership. Beyond the WRC, he played a pivotal role in organizing countless Jamaat programs, events, and initiatives, always offering his time and energy generously for Waqf Ardhi and Tabligh.

He was a man known for his selflessness, humility, deep gratitude, and joyful demeanor. Every person who met him was touched by his warmth and sincerity.

In the early years of the Jamaat, he led Jumu'ah and Eid prayers from his home, maintaining a strong connection with Allah and encouraging others to do the same. A regular in congregational prayers and a source of spiritual strength for his community, he will be remembered dearly and missed profoundly.

May Allah the Almighty grant him an elevated status in paradise and shower His mercy upon him. Ameen.