Shafiq passed away at his home in Marbella, Spain, on Sunday 20th March 2005 at the age of 71. He had spent the whole day with his family and close friends lunching at the beach, exchanging stories, playing with his grandson, Casim, and enjoying the wonderful weather. He had looked especially dashing that day wearing a white linen shirt and seemed in such good spirits, joking and laughing. Later that evening, whilst watching a favourite television program with Leana, he suddenly and peacefully passed on from this world. Shafiq had survived a severe heart attack ten years prior and undergone a successful quadruple heart bypass in 1998. Despite this he remained active and full of life until the very end. He had planned a wonderful trip to China this June as an early celebration of his and Leana’s 40th wedding anniversary. He seemed to know his time was limited and made an impromptu trip to San Francisco last year to see family and check up on everyone’s health and progress. Such was his love of all his family and friends that he even spoke with most of them in the days before he died. He was never someone to put off for tomorrow what could be done or said today. His concern for the welfare of his loved ones was his top priority, he always cared about the smallest details. Shafiq lived his life with vigour and not only achieved such extraordinary heights in his political career but was an outgoing social figure who moved with grace and ease throughout the different circles of his life, whether as High Commissioner representing his country, or as vivacious host to his numerous friends. His generosity and kindness were the traits by which he was known and loved; his elegance, integrity and forthright opinions remain the cornerstone of his reputation. His leaving us was so unexpected and has left us all bereft. We must gain solace from having been blessed in knowing him, in having been loved by him, and now in remembering his ways and following in his footsteps. Shafiq was a great man who, like a meteor, soared through this world blazing a trail and lighting up our lives in his wake. May he find rest and peace now.