Nadim A. Jamal
Nadim Abdo Jamal (1936-2025)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Nadim “Ned” Jamal on February 14, 2025, at the age of 88. Nadim was born on August 10, 1936, in Antakya, Türkiye, to Abdo and Marianna Jamal. As a boy, his family moved to Aleppo, Syria, a place he would always consider home.
With a group of friends, he embarked on the journey of a lifetime, moving to Canada in 1965. Sponsored by the Singer Sewing Machine Company, he learned to repair and sell sewing machines. Quickly establishing a life in Canada, Nadim met the love of his life, an Irish girl from Tullamore at a dance at the German Consulate in downtown Toronto. Ellen and Nadim were married for 57 years.
Following his time with Singer, Nadim worked for the T. Eaton Company for over 30 years. He sold Persian carpets, first at College Park and then at the downtown Toronto Eaton’s Centre, where he was widely respected for his knowledge and discerning eye. He took great joy in putting on a suit and tie for work each day, making a pot of coffee for his colleagues, and providing exceptional service to his many loyal customers.
Nadim was known for his charm, telling a great joke, and competitiveness over a game of backgammon. He was loved by everyone he met, and his kindness and generosity were his signature. Nadim enjoyed nothing more than life’s simple pleasures – spending time with his family, a good meal, a laugh with friends, and trying his luck on the weekly lottery. He took great pride in his work and instilled this value in his children.
He was predeceased by his father Abdo, mother Marianna, brothers George, Anis, Subhi, William, and sister Juliette.
Nadim is survived by his wife, Ellen (née Hyland) and daughters, Eleanor (Carmine) Arabia and Audrey (Scott Butler) Jamal. He was a loving Jido to his grandchildren, Katherine, Rebecca, Julian, and Miriam. He will be missed by his many loving nieces and nephews throughout the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
Cremation has taken place. Friends and family will be received at the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, ON N1H 4K3 on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A private family service will be held.
Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
Memorial contributions to the Foundation of the Guelph General Hospital or the St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Palliative Care unit) in Guelph would be appreciated.
A tree will be planted in memory for Nadim A. Jamal in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.