COMMUNITY NEWS | MARKHAM, ONTARIO
By Nasreen Khan:
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ
“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.” (Qur’an 2:156)
Thousands Bid Farewell to Khalid Usman
Beloved Markham councillor, philanthropist and community leader laid to rest as hundreds gather at the Islamic Foundation of Toronto
Hundreds of mourners gathered outside the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, Scarborough, on Monday, June 1, 2026
A Community in Mourning
Scarborough, ON — The grounds of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto at 441 Nugget Avenue fell silent on Monday, June 1, 2026, as a vast sea of mourners — numbering in the hundreds — gathered to perform Salatul Janazah for Brother Khalid Usman, a longtime Markham councillor, devoted community servant, and tireless philanthropist who passed away last week.
From elected officials and faith leaders to ordinary residents whose lives he quietly shaped, the turnout was a powerful testimony to a man whose generosity knew no boundaries and whose commitment to public service never wavered.
Community leaders and dignitaries attended the Janazah to pay their final respects to Brother Khalid Usman
An Outpouring of Grief and Respect
The Janazah prayer was held after Dhuhr, with the Iqama at 1:45 PM, drawing worshippers who spilled out far beyond the mosque’s walls into the surrounding car parks and streets. Media crews were present to document the remarkable show of community solidarity, a rare sight that reflected the immense regard in which Brother Khalid was held across faith communities, political circles, and the broader public.
Following the prayer, Brother Khalid was laid to rest at Pine Ridge Memorial Gardens, SE Corner of Church Street and Taunton Road in Ajax, with the burial open to both men and women. Condolences were received later that evening at the Islamic Society of York Region, 1380 Stouffville Road, Richmond Hill, from 4–8 PM.
Mourners crowded the entrance of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto ahead of the Salatul Janazah
A Legacy Built on Service
Brother Khalid Usman leaves behind a legacy that stretches across continents. He played a leading role in fundraising for victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan, raised vital funds for Stouffville Hospital, and made significant contributions to the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in his homeland. Locally, he worked tirelessly for countless individuals and charitable causes across the Markham community.
Perhaps his most enduring local legacy is his pivotal role in helping acquire land for Markham Masjid — a contribution that will serve generations of Muslims for decades to come. His dedication, generosity, and community spirit were recognised not only within the Muslim community but by public figures and civic leaders who crossed his path.
The Islamic Foundation of Toronto Funeral Services hearse carried Brother Khalid Usman to his final resting place
Final Gathering of a Community United
The car park and surrounding areas outside the mosque remained filled long after the prayer concluded, with community members reluctant to leave — exchanging memories, offering duas, and consoling one another. The sheer scale of attendance spoke louder than any tribute.
Those who knew Brother Khalid speak of a man who never sought recognition, who gave generously without expectation of return, and who treated every person — regardless of background or status — with warmth and dignity. He was, by every account, a man of the people. His home was open, his phone always answered, and his counsel freely given to anyone who sought it.
Tributes have poured in from across Canada and Pakistan. Community organisations, mosques, hospitals, and charities he supported have all noted the irreplaceable void his departure leaves. Fellow councillors and political figures have spoken of a colleague who brought integrity and heart to every room he entered.
Community members gathered in the car park after the Janazah prayer, sharing memories and offering condolences
Brother Khalid Usman is survived by his family, who request continued prayers for his soul and patience for themselves during this period of profound loss. It will be difficult for anyone to fill the void he has left in the Markham community — a community he served with everything he had.
Note: The Dua/Qul programme originally scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Crystal Event Banquet Hall has been cancelled due to space accommodation limitations. The memorial gathering will be rescheduled to a later date.
May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus,
and give patience and strength to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Ameen.
