Final tributes to one of Dundee’s legends: SD Soni
He would speak knowledgeably on history and was proud that Gandhi once stayed over at the family house on McKenzie Street in 1913.
The funeral is being held today of one of Dundee’s most revered business and community leaders: Shantilalbhai Soni.
Mr Soni passed away peacefully at Eventide Home yesterday afternoon where he had been a resident for the past two years.
He was 91. His son, Dulip, told the Courier that his father had had a ‘great life and was now at peace’.
The funeral was held at the family home Gladstone Street before proceeding to the Newcastle Crematorium.
The youngest of four brothers whose father arrived in South Africa from India at the end of the 19th century, Mr Soni followed the family business in the jewellery trade.
His son, Dulip, has continued the family tradition, running the jewellery business, Soni Bros. from the Dundee Boulevard. SD – he often jokingly said the initials stood for Sugar Daddy – was involved in many community efforts – the Hindu Temple, school bodies, charity organisations and served for many years with the Dundee Chamber of Business.
He would speak knowledgeably on history and was proud that Gandhi once stayed over at the family house on McKenzie Street in 1913.
“Gandhi was a man who had no need or desire for possessions – such was his greatness.” The Sonis feel proud that Gandhi stayed over at their home. History was always a passion of Mr Soni’s and he was always keen for a chat with customers who came into his business on Willson Street.
With Tony Wade and Dave Durham, Mr Soni served faithfully with the local Chamber of Business and was a keen supporter of local business.
Respected for his knowledge, passion for Dundee and liked for his impish sense of humour, Mr Soni will go down in history as one of the town’s most revered gentlemen.
RIP Mr SD Soni.
