Former Markham councillor remembered as a ‘legend’

By Gene Pereira, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

A former Markham City Councillor who served Ward 7 residents for 14 years is being remembered as a “legend” in the community.

Khalid Usman, who became Markham’s first councillor of Pakistani origin when he was elected in 1998, died on May 30th at the age of 76.

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti called Usman a dedicated public servant, extraordinary Humanitarian, and acclaimed business professional who made an unwavering commitment to public service and community building for nearly 25 years.

“Our community has lost a giant,” said the Markham mayor in a recently released statement.  “A loyal friend to many, and a legend here at home, across Canada, Pakistan, and around the world.”

Usman, who was originally from Peshawar, Pakistan, served three consecutive terms on Markham council up until 2006. He would return in 2018 to fill a vacancy, serving to 2022.

Usman, said Scarpitti, lived a stellar life, from being proud of his Pakistani heritage and Muslim faith, to his contributions in public office, philanthropic endeavours, and distinguished business career.

“To me, he was a respected colleague, a trusted advisor, and a close friend,” said Scarpitti. “We have lost a man of notable character with an incredible spirit of generosity. His humility and sense of humour endeared him to everyone he met. His trademark smile was a memorable characteristic. He packed so much into one lifetime and never thought twice about giving himself, his time, and resources.”

Dr. Helena Jaczek, the Member of Parliament for Markham Stouffville, also called Usman a “legend.” She took to the floor of the House of Commons to pay tribute to the former councillor and offer her condolences to his wife, Dr. Abida Usman, his daughters Hina, Rabiah, Maria, and all his family and friends.

“We lost a great Canadian,” said Dr. Jaczek. “Khalid Usman was a legend for his leadership and dedication to the community. For decades, he served in countless senior roles and organizations in Markham and York Region, including 14 years as a Markham councillor.”

Over the years, Usman chaired various committees, including the Finance Committee, Transportation Committee, Committee of Adjustment, and co-chaired the Canada Day Committee.

He also served as Vice-Chair of Markham’s Economic Development and Budget Committees, and Director of Destination Markham and the Markham District Energy Corporation, where he also served as Chair of Finance Committee.

Usman helped guide the planning of the Aaniin Community Centre and two new cricket grounds, along with the development of Celebration Park. He also worked on several boards, including the Markham Stouffville Hospital Board and the Markham Board of Trade.

Dr. Jaczek said Usman, a chartered accountant by profession, was always greeting people with an infectious smile.

“He gave in so many ways, with kindness, energy, passion, and good humour,” she said. “He was truly larger than life.”

As the Chair of the Fundraising Committee of Canadians of Pakistani Origin in Markham, Usman helped raise more than $3 million for the Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation and supported fundraising efforts for York University’s Markham campus.

“Through his dedication, passion, and volunteer contributions, he positively impacted schools, hospitals, and numerous not-for-profit organizations,” said Scarpitti.

Usman’s generosity extended far beyond Markham and York Region, raising over $16 million for global charities.

In just one evening, he helped raise a record $1.2 million for the Pakistan earthquake in 2005, when more than 100,000 people lost their lives, and over three million people became homeless.

“After meeting with former Prime Minister Paul Martin, the federal government matched these donations and enlisted ‘DART,’ a military team specializing in field hospital and water purification systems,” said the Markham mayor.

Usman also raised $50,000 after the 2011 Japanese earthquake and Tsunami, and $220,000 for the earthquake in Turkey and Syria in 2023.

An immigrant, Usman began his career as a Chartered Accountant in 1975, before starting his own accounting firm. He also served as Director and Secretary for York Region District Chartered Accountants Association and the Toronto Chartered Accountants Association, as well as being Past President of the Ontario Society of Pakistani Professionals and Academics.

In 2009, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario presented him with their most prestigious designation, FCA (Fellow of the Institute), for his outstanding career achievements and significant contributions to the community and the profession.

The recognition didn’t stop there.

Usman received the Medal of Good Citizenship from the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award, and the Tamgha-e-Khidmat (Medal of Service) from the President of Pakistan.

He was also the recipient of the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in November of 2025.

“We thank him for helping us build a beautiful, vibrant, and inclusive community,” said Scarpitti, who had the flags at the Markham Civic Centre lowered in Usman’s honour. “Most of all, he genuinely cared about people. People close to home, and people who live on the other side of the world, all mattered to him.

Khalid was a rare leader who inspired everyone around him to be their best and do their best.”