Community Announcement
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mohammed Iqbal Cheema on September 14, 2025. He was laid to rest on September 17, 2025.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
(Surely to Allah SWT we belong, and surely to Him we shall return)
Born on August 1, 1944 in Village Sahowala, Jee Chak No. 132 RB, District Faisalabad, Punjab, to parents Ghulam Qadir Cheema and Barkat Bibi, Uncle Iqbal migrated to Canada in 1972 with his wife Qamar Unnisa Cheema and daughter Shazia. Before that, he had worked in the scientific equipment trading business.
In Canada, he started with little material wealth but carried with him a generous heart. He quickly became a pillar of the Pakistani and Muslim communities of Vancouver. He found work in the structural steel production industry, where he rose to the position of shop steward, and alongside his wife, welcomed three more children: Fozia, Shahzad, and Bilal.
Uncle Iqbal was among the early pioneers who recognized the importance of political engagement for the community. He built strong relationships, nurtured friendships, and dedicated his life to service. He was known to greet newcomers at the airport, offering them shelter, meals, and guidance as they found their footing in Canada.
He played a pivotal role in raising funds for the first mosque built under the BCMA banner, Richmond Jamia Masjid, where he served as fundraising chair, and later in other leadership roles. He also served actively in the Pakistan Canada Association (PCA), becoming its President in 1986. His efforts extended to the National Federation of Pakistani Canadians, where he served as National Vice President in the early 1990s. He was also among the founders of the Pakistani Canadian Cultural Association (PCCA) at the turn of the century.
Throughout his life, Uncle Iqbal served on multicultural advisory boards, always ensuring that Pakistani and Muslim voices were heard. He admired and encouraged younger generations, working to involve them in community service.
He is survived by his beloved wife Qamar Unnisa Cheema, daughters Shazia Cheema and Fozia Cheema, sons Shahzad Cheema and Bilal Cheema, and eight grandchildren: Isfand, Anam, Maria, Ahmed, Usman, Omar, Ali, and Aisha. He also leaves behind his brother Mohammed Ilyas Cheema, and sisters Parveen Bajwa, Shamim Khalid, and Azra Mushtaq.
Uncle Iqbal will always be remembered for his smile, kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to community. His legacy will live on for decades to come.
May Allah SWT forgive him, accept his good deeds, grant him a place in Jannat al-Firdous, and grant patience and strength to his family and loved ones. Ameen.
Information submitted by:
Br, Haroon Khan(PCA), Thanks
The Miracle Media
extends its deepest condolences on the loss of a true lover of Pakistan, a gentle, humble, and dedicated community leader. Uncle Iqbal Cheema was also a devoted reader and supporter of Miracle Newspaper.
We cherish the golden memories of his encouragement throughout our 25-year journey. Uncle Iqbal’s lifelong dedication to community service was recently recognized by Miracle Media. On September 11, 2025, during Miracle’s Seniors Forum, he was honored with a special award for his decades of service to the community. As he was in hospital at the time, the award was received on his behalf by his son Bilal Cheema. Our prayers are with his family and all who mourn him.
