GARAS, Dr. Nashaat Garas

He was born on November 8, 1949 in Asyut, Egypt. He graduated from medical school at the age of 21, and worked as an internist for many years. Then, in honour of his father who passed suddenly from his third cardiac arrest, Nashaat returned to his studies and earned a PhD in Cardiology in 1988. He worked closely with the renowned Dr. Magdi Yacoub. He moved to Canada in 1990, and worked for 3 years at St. Michael’s and St. Joseph’s Hospitals, where he gave many lectures on Rheumatic Heart Disease. But this cardiologist’s heart was still in Egypt – so he briefly returned to Cairo to marry the love of his life, beautiful and humble Emily. When they returned to Canada, he worked in insurance for nearly 30 years as a Medical Director. He revolutionized the industry by developing medical underwriting, which has helped so many people.

Nash’s faith was very important to him. He loved reading the Bible in the morning, and he believed strongly in the power of prayer. He ministered to sick families, supported several churches and missionaries, and treated every interaction as an opportunity to share the Gospel or display the love of Christ.

Fierce dedication and strength characterized every aspect of Nash’s life. When he was diagnosed with aggressive metastatic prostate cancer in 2020, he was given a 2 year prognosis. Against increasing pain and worsening disease progression, God gave him the grace to fight for 5 years. He persevered until January 17, when, surrounded by Emily (who served him faithfully throughout his life, but especially in his health battle) and their four children (Anna-Maria, Peter, Samantha, John), he entered into his eternal rest. He is survived by his siblings: Evon (Nabil, deceased), Medhat (Viola Maro), Safwat (Randa), Amal (Fouad), and Seham (Adel), along with other dear family members.

A lover of music, fellowship, neatness, and godliness, he will always be remembered as caring, humorous, brilliant, and hardworking.

He encouraged many people and left an impact that will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in every heart he touched, every smile he shared, every stranger he befriended, and every heart that mourns for him today, and in the lives of his children, who were the pride and joy of his life.

He is forever loved.

Visitation services will be held at Chapel Ridge on Thursday, January 22 from 6pm – 7:15pm and 7:30pm – 9pm.

The Celebration of his life will be held at Chapel Place Presbyterian Church on Friday, January 23 at noon.

Events