Navinder Kharmai

August 31, 1981 ~
May 24, 2024

Our beloved son, father, brother, uncle, cousin, colleague, and friend chose to join his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, May 24, 2024. Navinder “Navin” Kharmai was always willing to lend a helping hand and demonstrated his giving spirit by volunteering with Pure Passion for Fashion and Festival of the Arts, hosting exchange students with GRCS International Student Program, and helping his parents Neilrani (“Lita”) and Nancumar Kharmai with their non-profit ministry, Children’s Circle Mission.

Navin’s love for music started with piano lessons at an early age and he also sang for many years with the Children’s Bible Hour choir. He studied percussion in the Rockford Public Schools Band and later performed on drums with various church worship groups. Navin also loved to be behind the camera, and his passion for video production and direction led him to volunteer at GRTV, graduate from Ferris State University, and work for companies including Meijer, Gordon Food Service, Fifth Third Bank, Aria Show Technology, and Auto-Owners Insurance Group.

Despite longstanding mental health struggles, Navin never lost his goofiness or sense of humor. Through the end, he strived to be a better father, a better son, and walk the path God was calling him towards. Navin yearned to express his infinite love for his kids, Quinn Alexander and Lillian Joy, as his last wishes were to “...walk Lilly down the aisle” and “...to see Quinn graduate.”

With deep sorrow we say goodbye, Navin, but we are comforted to know that you finally found peace in the arms of Jesus Christ. You will be greatly missed by all those whose lives you have touched.

Relatives and friends may meet Navin’s family on Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at MKD Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, MI 49306.

A second visitation will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM at Grace Fellowship Church, 735 Buth Dr. NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321.

Funeral services will begin at 12:30 PM on Friday, May 31, 2024, at the church, with Pastor John Campbell and Pastor Oommen George officiating. A light luncheon will follow the service. Livestreaming of the service will be available on the church’s website (https://gracefellowshipmi.com/).

The burial will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, May 31, 2024, at New Bostwick Lake Cemetery, 9008 Old Belding Rd., Rockford, Michigan, 49341.

Visitation: Thursday, May 30 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Visitation
Thursday, May 30
6:00pm - 8:00pm

MKD - Belmont
1601 Post Dr. NE
Belmont, MI 49306
Get Directions

Phone: (616) 866-7200

Visitation: Friday, May 31 | 11:00am - 12:30pm

Visitation
Friday, May 31
11:00am - 12:30pm

Grace Fellowship Church
735 Buth Dr. NE
Comstock Park, MI 49321
Get Directions

Funeral Service: Friday, May 31 | 12:30pm

Funeral Service
Friday, May 31
12:30pm

Grace Fellowship Church
735 Buth Dr. NE
Comstock Park, MI 49321
Get Directions

Leave Your Tribute Message

August 07, 2024

I thought of Navin tonight and decided to look online to see how he is doing these days. I'm so very sad to learn of his passing. Navin was my dear friend for years at Blythefield Hills Baptist Church. He and I both were given opportunities to film events for the youth group there and grew close to each other during that time. I only have the best memories of him. I always felt like an outsider, but he hung out with me anyway and always made me laugh. I have lots of great memories of him, particularly about how focused he was on his goals. One day we had made plans to meet up for lunch at Chi-chi's. As I am sure was true for him later in his life, the man was driven! He had so much on his plate that he was 45 minutes late to our meeting and I'm pretty sure he had another meeting after me. We weren't even 20 at the time. He had a great vision for what he wanted in a career and I know he worked diligently to achieve it. We saw each other a couple more times after that, but I ended up leaving the state and losing touch with him. I wish I could give everyone in your family a big hug and share with you all the stories he told me that I still hold in my heart. You are all a treasure to me and I will be keeping each of you in my prayers.

- Sarah Ray

June 10, 2024

Navinder was one of the most talented video production people I ever worked with. He had high integrity and I always knew he was going to create the best work possible. He loved his children deeply and wanted the best for them as well. He was tremendously focused on his faith and he wanted to walk with Jesus every day of his life. He will always be remembered within the circles of the video and live event AV industry.

- Michael Kausch

June 01, 2024

I met Navinder shortly after he moved here to Lansing. He came to Lansing Area Church of Christ with a great willingness to get to know people and be involved. He definitely loved community and will be greatly missed. Deepest condolences to his children, parents, and the rest of his family.

- Craig Roubos

May 31, 2024

I served on staff at Kentwood Community Church. I read some other tributes and it does not surprise me to see so many people from KCC leaving a remark. Navin made an impact for Jesus and everyone at KCC. Even after he left he was still willing to help me out with a few things. I am thankful for the memories I have of Navin. Sending my deepest condolences and prayers for the family.

- michael hewitt

May 30, 2024

Navin, it was a joy working with you on many productions and having conversations over meals together. Our team and I could always count on you. You were kind enough to invite me into your home, introduce me to your family, and seek opportunities to perform and collaborate. It was a joy working alongside of you. We traded the director hat from time-to-time. Regardless of who wore it, you brought the same passion, commitment, and drive. We lost touch, after many life transitions. It pains me to know the struggles that you were facing and how unbearable life felt. Thank you for the great memories and lessons. My prayers go out to your loved ones during this difficult time.

- Jeff Veley

May 30, 2024

I loved working with Navin. He was insightful, warm, talented and often taught our elders as much as they taught us. My peace and love to Navin's friends and family.

- Ryan Burkholder

May 30, 2024

Navin sure was a great guy as he participated at Children's Bible Hour and it was a pleasure to know him and his parents. I am praying for each of you in his family with his loss.

- Lynette Hooker

May 29, 2024

Navin was in my Honors English 9 class at Rockford High School. I remember how organized and determined he was to be successful. Later, he was a teacher assistant for me his senior year. He graded for me, created grammar practice sheets, greeted tyhe students, and assisted them, etc. He was a bright young man with a heart for others. I saw him at Meijer a few years ago, and he was the same kind, polite, faith-filled man that I knew from all of those years ago. My heart goes out to his family and friends. He is now at peace in the arms of our Lord.

- Jackie Decker

May 29, 2024

My sincere condolences to all friends and family. 🙏🙏

- Craig Van Dyke

May 29, 2024

I was saddened by the news I received this week regarding Navinder’s passing. I worked with Navinder at GFS and can recall many times he was open about his faith as well as his struggles. I feel at peace knowing he was confident in his faith and that this is only a temporary goodbye to so many family and friends.

- Jess Gholston

May 29, 2024

My most heartfelt sympathy to Navinder's family. I'm grateful for having worked and become friends with Navinder at GFS, where his ready smile and professional skills delivered great results and made him a valued colleague. To his family, may you be surrounded by love and peace that surpasses all understanding, and know that Navinder touched so many with his acts of service and kindness.

- Mark Schurman

May 29, 2024

I met Navin during my time at Ferris and our paths crossed numerous times over the years through mutual friends. Navin was a great guy, extremely friendly and always willing to help someone in need. You will be missed, RIP my friend.

- Dustin Bacon

May 29, 2024

Navin was a great friend, mentor and servant for God's kingdom. I enjoyed working with him during my many years at Kentwood Community Church and learned a great deal in our time together. He had the heart of a teacher and that is so evident from many others who crossed his path in a professional and ministry setting. My wife and I stayed in contact with him and his family over the years. I'll miss the handful of informal "driveway concerts" we attended when Navin lived in the Alger Heights area. Friends and neighbors from around the block would offer their musical gifts and occasionally passing out hymnals so we could have an impromptu hymn sing. While we grieve his sudden passing, we look forward to the blessed assurance we have in Christ that we will all be reunited one day. No more tears or sorrow, just the everlasting love of our Heavenly Father.

- Phil Rowley

May 29, 2024

I had the privilege of serving with Navin at Kentwood Community Church during his time there. Navin played a huge role in my life, fueling my passion to production and ministry. Deepest condolences from my family to yours. May you feel the comfort of The Lord’s touch during this time.

- Mike Kozal

May 29, 2024

We thank God for the time we were able to be with Navin at Community Recovery on Friday nights. He was a joy to be with and a true brother in Jesus. We thank God for Navin's witness of Christ and recovery in the midst of brokenness. See in Heaven with Jesus. Pastor Mark Vander Meer

- Pastor Mark Vander Meer

May 28, 2024

I am deeply shocked and saddened by your passing, Navin. I cannot fathom the inner turmoil you must have been experiencing. I wish you had truly known how deeply loved you were, despite the struggles and difficulties you faced. It breaks my heart to think of how many people suffer in silence, unable to see a hopeful future. I pray that the kindness, goodness, and selflessness you embodied continue to live on in your children, family, and friends. Rest in peace, dear friend.

- Becky Toth

May 28, 2024

Navin and I were in kindergarten together at Crestview Elementary (Northpoint Christian) and then reconnected a few years later and played on the same community ed rec basketball team in 5th grade and then throughout middle school and high school at Rockford. He had a warm, gentle spirit about him. He will be missed. Till we meet again, brother.

- Doug Crawford

May 28, 2024

I never had the chance to tell him in person how much he had an impact on my life. Navin was the tech director at my church while I was in my teenage years. He helped to grow a passion for av that rooted deep within me! I still remember him teaching me how to coil an xlr cable! I pray for peace and comfort for his family as they endure and persevere through this trying time.

- Ben Cobb

May 28, 2024

Navin, I never had the chance to tell him in person how much he had an impact on my life. Navin was the tech director at my church while I was in my teenage years. He helped to grow a passion for av that rooted deep within me! I still remember him teaching me how to coil an xlr cable! I pray for peace and comfort for his family as they endure and persevere through this trying time.

- Ben Cobb

May 28, 2024

- Ben Cobb

May 28, 2024

I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Navin. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Navin will always be remembered for his hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. May his soul rest in peace.

- Brad Dunnum

May 28, 2024

Navin is remembered as a sincere hard-working student who was always willing to help younger less experienced students learn the ropes. He was creative, kind, and thorough and a blessing to work with.

- Fred Wyman

May 28, 2024

I served as a volunteer under Navin at Kentwood Community Church on the video team. From the first day I met Navin I knew he was someone special. Always, always kind words he would have for everyone. Such a gentle person. He is what I would call a human magnet. He would just draw you in by being himself. We will meet again one day, faithful servant. Praying for peace for his family and friends. Love you Navin.

- Greg Zalewski

May 28, 2024

I was blessed to attend High School with Navin, as I knew him. He was always kind, funny, and caring. His kindness and friendship helped me through hard years. I have never forgotten him, though we lost touch after graduation. My condolences and prayers to his family and his children.

- Renee Kremhelmer

May 28, 2024

I’m terribly sorry to hear of the passing of Navinder. I had the pleasure of meeting him when he started at Auto-Owners Insurance Company. We chatted for a little bit and welcomed him. He will be missed. Hugs and prayers to all.

- Mary Russell

May 28, 2024

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I'm so thankful we'll be able to see him again in glory. I know he's at peace before the Lord Jesus Christ. May the Lord comfort your hearts during this difficult time. Lita and Nan, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Abi Elizabeth Vasquez

- Abi Vasquez

May 28, 2024

Sleep on Navin,the Lord loves you most and thank you for making a difference in children's life amongst whom is my son you went way beyond to facilitate his emergency health care 13 years ago with your mum Lita upon my arrival from Africa. I was hoping to see you sometime soon with my son to say thank you but heaven beckoned on his Angel Navin

- Kemi Arogundade

May 28, 2024

Prayers of peace and blessing for Navinder, Lily, Quinn, and his mother and father. I will miss you.

- Ben Weatherston

May 28, 2024

I will miss Navender he knew how to be a great friend and share the bible I will continue to pray for his kids to have a good life

- anthony groenink

May 27, 2024

I will miss Navinder. He had great insights during our personal Bible studies, and he worshipped God sincerely with us at the Lansing Area Church of Christ. We will continue to pray that God will offer the family the supernatural comfort that only He can provide.

- Joshua Lutz

May 27, 2024

My sincere condolences to the Kharmai family. 🙏

- Craig Van Dyke