Amarjit Singh Bal's Obituary
Mr. Amarjit Singh Bal lived a life as a sportsman, a poet, and a believer in true friendships and community.
Born in Punjab, he carried the spirit of his homeland to every place he lived in. Always lively to the fullest and giving. His passion for field hockey opened many doors for him. He played and coached the Indian National team. A serendipitous move took him to Nigeria, where he coached the men's team and was invited to the Olympics in 1980. He continued to develop grassroots programs to bring other sports to the state.
Being inspired to build a better life for his family, he migrated to the land of opportunity, the beautiful sunny California. This is where his courage lead efforts to secure sponsorship for the girls' hockey team at Stanford to play in India. As time and age caught up, he continued to teach and referee in high schools to be around all things sports. More so he developed a new passion - golf.
He led with purpose, a heart, fostering athletes, family and community with their drive and passion, and off the field, Amarjit was a man of deep connections and friendships who loved Punjabi poetry, especially the works of Shiv Kumar Batalvi, carrying that same poetic sensitivity into his own life.
He is survived by his beloved family members, wife and daughters, who walked beside him through every chapter of his journey. They will carry forward his voice with love, holding close his lessons and will dearly miss his funny sides.
Amarjit Singh Bal leaves behind a journey that spans continents and has empowered his generations to date. His absence will be felt in the lives of every heart he inspired, and that carries his memory.
May he rest in peace.
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