Sookdeo Joshua Jiru Mulchan

In loving memory of Sookdeo Jiru Joshua Mulchan of Pembroke Pines FL & Trinidad.

Sookdeo lived a long life with accomplishments in multiple disciplines. After retiring from his career with the government of Trinidad, as a construction supervisor Road Officer #1, he completed Bible college and served as a Pastor for 40 years. He was a builder, tailor, carpenter, typist, mechanic, joiner, barber, artist, and musician. He played multiple instruments including the guitar, mandolin, harmonica, drums (dholak), shak-shak, and organ. Further, he was a classical Indian singer and built a 4-stringed, 36-key instrument called the bul-bul. Additionally, he created a dhantal out of rebar. But anyone who knew him, knew he could make beautiful melodies with just a bottle and spoon. Sookdeo was passionate about writing and journaling. When he put pen to paper, the results were extraordinary, including his penmanship! He was neat, organized, and worked with a spirit of excellence. These accomplishments are even more impressive when you realize he was completely self-taught, having never completed elementary school.

Sookdeo was somewhat paradoxical; he cared for people but thrived in solitude. He was always upbeat and smiling, courteous and generous, positive, and he loved Jesus! He loved his family deeply and unwaveringly. He was a unique individual, always willing to help anyone in need. Everyone received a warm welcome to his home and departed with lots of "God bless yous," hugs, and his signature double- handed wave. His favorite expression when asked how he was doing was, "Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise." His favorite God line was "Sweet Jesus, Sweet Jesus, Sweet Jesus."

Sookdeo is survived by his wife of 70 years, Dulcie, eight children: Richard, Dera, Angie, Terry, Joann, Matt, Johnny and Neil; in-laws: Reshma, Rajen, Judy, Faith, Joey, Lizzy, & Felizia; grandchildren and great grands in the US and Trinidad, and brother Ramdeo. He was predeceased by his son, Boysie, brother Basdeo, sisters, Deedee and Mamin, and son in law Jeff.

Sookdeo was healthy to the very end of his journey. He passed peacefully at 9:35PM, at home, with family who ushered him into the arms of his Sweet Jesus. This scripture embodies his later years and final days, "But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14.