Temple champion loses fight with illness
A leading member of the Wolverhampton Sikh community, who helped set up the city's first and largest Sikh temple, has died following a battle with cancer.
Tributes were today paid to former Goodyear worker Tarlok Singh Hayre following his death at the age of 73.
Mr Hayre moved to Wolverhampton from the Indian village of Moranwali, in India, in 1961 and worked at the tyre factory on Stafford Road for more than 38 years.
The father of two was instrumental in helping to set up the Sedgley Street Sikh Temple and was a trustee for almost 40 years.
Sehdev Bismal, president of Wolverhampton Inter Faith Council, described Mr Hayre as a principled and gentle man.
"Mr Hayre was known for his high moral principles, adherence to Sikh traditions and for his selfless work for the welfare of the local Indian community," he said.
"He promoted dialogue between different communities and supported the cause of helping disadvantaged groups. He was known for his hard work, commitment to the core ideals of Sikhism and for his humility."
A keen gardener, Mr Hayre, who lived in Goldthorn Park, was a lover of the outdoors.
Mr Bismal said: "He used to love gardening and also visited the temple every day. He was a very gentle person."
Mr Hayre died on November 11. He leaves behind wife Harbhajan, sons Narvir and Ravi and grandchildren Dylan and Roshan.
A funeral service will be held tomorrow at 10.30am at Bushbury Crematorium.
