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Khushdev Singh Johal, who died in March 2008 aged 74 after a long illness, was president of Derby’s Indian Workers’ Association and a "guiding light" to his community.

Mr Johal was a founder member of the association, which was set up in April 1961. Its secretary, Shangara Gahonia, described him as "an inspiration to all future generations."

“He has been a guiding light to many people like me. He was a very nice and pleasant man. I don’t think I ever saw him angry," he said.

“His contribution to society, especially the Indian society, will not be forgotten."

Mr Johal came to Britain in 1952 to join his father Gurdas in Nottingham. Shortly afterwards, he set up home in Osmaston Road, Derby, where he lived until he died.

He left a wife, Harbans Kaur, two sons, Charnjit and Balji, a daughter, Rajinder Dhindsa, and seven grandchildren.

Charnjit, known as Joey, said: “Our father became the head of the family at a very early age, 22, when his father passed away at the age of 47, in 1955. He had to be strong from that day on and that strength was with him to the very end.”

“His activities in looking after the welfare of the ethnic minorities meant that he was often away from his family but the time we had with him was always enjoyable, with never a dull moment as he always enjoyed a healthy, argumentative discussion.”

Mr Johal spent his life fighting for people’s rights. During his 20 years working for Qualcast, he was an active trade unionist.

He joined millions of workers in Britain and India in protesting against emergency rule enforced by Indira Gandhi and protested when she visited London in 1977.

Mr Johal was also part of protest demonstrations and sit-ins to campaign against racism in Derby.

He was a founding member of the Indian Community Centre in Rawdon Street, Derby, and was unanimously elected its chairman when it opened 26 years ago.

Anyone who knew Mr Johal is invited to leave their memories and messages at his tribute page at Lasting Tribute

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County:  Derbyshire

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