By Sue-Ann Wayow

INDEPENDENT Senator Deoroop Teemal a man who served with dignity working up until almost the very last day of his life was cremated on Wednesday.

His funeral service was attended by many state dignitaries including President Christine Kangaloo, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, both past and present, ambassadors and high commissioners.

The service was held at the National Council for Indian Culture (NCIC) Divali Nagar site at Endeavour, Chaguanas. The final service was held at the Caroni Cremation Site.

Teemal served as NCIC president up until his death on Sunday morning at age 68.

Senate President Wade Mark, in a tribute, described him as a man with deep integrity, quiet conviction and an unwavering sense of duty.

He said, “Though we sat on different benches, he as an independent senator and, of course I, as a member of the opposition at the time, we were united in our commitment to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

“In every debate, every committee meeting and every moment in the Chamber, Senator Teemal brought to bear his signature qualities – thoughtfulness, humility, civility, humanity, and deep intellectual rigour.”

Teemal was initially appointed to the Senate by former President, Paula Mae Weekes, in 2018 and served with grace and distinction, Mark said.

A son of the soil, he was grounded in faith, culture and service and his cultural work enriched the lives of thousands.

But Teemal’s most joyous times would be when he spoke of his family, Mark said.

“It was clear, that beneath the public service and professional commitments was a man rooted deeply in love beauty, excellence, and legacy,” He added.

Opposition Senator, Dr. Amery Browne, also paid tribute echoing Mark’s sentiments of Teemal’s quiet sense of dignity and respect for others.

He said Teemal was never one to rush to speak for every debate but when he did get on his legs to speak, his contribution would be valuable.

“Quality over quantity, prudence over rancour, respect over disrespect,” Dr. Browne said.

NCIC’s first vice president, Surujdeo Mangaroo, said Teemal lived a life of selfless service.

“His humility and generosity knew no bounds,” he added.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and SewaTT, two organisations Teemal would have been affiliated with, also paid tribute.

Teemal is survived by his wife Geeta and two children Kaajal and Priya Teemal.