Today@Dal

With great sadness members of the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture extend condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Hossain Farid.  Dr. Farid passed away on Monday, November 14, 2022, at the age of 75, surrounded by his loving family.  Campus flags are lowered in respect.

Dr. Farid was a well-known member of the Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture of which he was a fixture since 1990. The oldest of six boys, Hossain was born in Esfahan, Iran.  He received degrees in his country of birth from Pahlavi (Shiraz) University and completed a joint doctorate from The Ohio State University and University of Alberta. He travelled the world with his soulmate Flora Riyahi before settling in Truro, Nova Scotia, to raise their two sons.

Dr. Farid will be remembered by numerous graduate students over the course of his career that have benefited from his dedication and support for conducting sound research and publication of this work. He was the unofficial mentor to many faculty that joined the department over the years. Hossain welcomed collaborators from around the world to share in his vison of improving the lives of animals using advanced molecular genetic techniques. His nearly 100 peer-reviewed publications and numerous in-person presentations have brought him recognition among community of scientists, the industries that supported him and beyond.

Hossain gave generously of his time and energy to those around him. Numerous newcomers to the region were hosted by Hossain and his family or simply shown the ropes of adapting to life in Atlantic Canada. These actions led to long term relationships that continued through the years. Those who know Hossain will remember his unique sense of humor.  He was a master storyteller who captivated his audience with memorable tales. He touched many lives in his short time with us.

A "Celebration of Love" memorial service will be held from 4-6 p.m., Sunday, November 20, 2022, at Best Western Glengarry Hotel, 150 Willow St., Truro (masks mandatory). In lieu of flowers, Hossain’s family asks that donations be made to the Colchester Food Bank or Pancreatic Cancer Canada.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages of condolence may be sent to Hossain’s family by viewing his obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com