CALGARY -- It's been a sad Father's Day for Mayor Naheed Nenshi and his family, who are mourning the loss of his dad who died Sunday.

Kurbanali Hussein Nenshi, who just turned 72 on Saturday, was born in Tanzania in 1940 and came to Canada with his wife Noorjah in 1971, settling in Calgary in 1973.

"In many ways, his life was ordinary - struggle, sacrifice, giving back to the community, building an amazing future for his family," the family said in a statement.

"But he never forgot just how extraordinary this country and this city are, in giving him and so many others amazing opportunity.

"This, combined with his deep and unshakeable faith, led him to instil the value of service in everyone he touched. Kurban was a compassionate man who loved his family with a fierce devotion."

The family thanks the many health-care professionals who helped Kurbanali until the end.

"It was because of this amazing care over the years that Kurban was able to see his children achieve their dreams, and see his granddaughters born, as well as spend special precious time with them," the statement said.

A private memorial service in the Ismaili Muslim tradition will be held.

In lieu of flowers, if so desired, memorial tributes may be made to the Calgary Foundation, referencing the Nenshi Family Charitable Fund, benefiting immigrant youth, people in poverty, and arts and culture in Calgary: The Calgary Foundation, 700-999 8 Street SW, Calgary AB, T2R 1J5. www.thecalgaryfoundation.org

To pass on condolences to the mayor, contact the mayor's office at 403-268-5622 or send a card to 700 Macleod Tr. S. Calgary, Alta., T2P 2M5.