Alfred Yuen Fat Chan

Alfred Yuen Fat Chan passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada. He is survived by his wife Florence, his two children Alfred Junior and Brian, and his grandchildren Tobin, Aubrey, Lara, Mattea, and Luca. Alfred was the fourth of eleven siblings, leaving behind Frankie, Catherine, David, William, Henry, Gordon, Kenneth, and Mable, and joining his late brother John and his eldest sister.

Alfred was born in Hong Kong and completed high school at St. Joseph's Anglo Chinese School before pursuing a degree in political science at California State University. He met Florence when they both applied to the same management trainee job in Hong Kong. Though Florence got the job, Alfred married his competitor and took an alternate position at the same company. Alfred Junior and Brian were born in the early 1980s, and the family enjoyed the early childhood years living amongst family in Hong Kong.

In 1988, Alfred and the family immigrated to Richmond, Canada, where they established their home. Alfred's passion for barbecuing led him to start Alfie's Barbecue, a small eatery on Steveston Landing. In the early 90s, he returned to Hong Kong and furthered his career in logistics before returning to Canada and managing the warehouse and logistics operations at T&T Supermarket and Van-Whole Produce.

Alfred had many interests, and he is fondly remembered for his love of film, music and singing, cooking, golfing, and cars. Alfred enjoyed playing at different golf courses across the Lower Mainland and refining his swing at driving ranges. He was an enthusiastic cook, and he generously prepared delicious and elaborate meals for his family and guests. For family birthdays, the celebrant could expect their favourite dish, carefully prepared by Alfred. In the warmer months, he could often be found grilling on a hibachi in the backyard, in the garage on rainy days, or outside his Westfalia camper van on road trips.

Alfred was a loving grandfather and especially proud of his grandchildren. He welcomed Tobin and Aubrey in 2015 and 2016, respectively, Lara in 2019, and Mattea and Luca in 2022. He made a special effort to watch and cheer on Tobin and Aubrey at their practices and games, and he tenderly cared for Lara, Mattea, and Luca as babies. Alfred cherished their gifts and memories; his walls were decorated with photographs, cards, notes, and drawings from his grandchildren.

In March 2023, Alfred was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and met his diagnosis with fortitude and courage. Alfred entered palliative care in April 2024, and before his passing, his last days were spent surrounded by his family.

A small inurnment service will be held for Alfred on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 10:00am at Ocean View Burial Park – Evergreen Niche Gardens in Burnaby, BC (https://www.dignitymemorial.com/dfsmedia/042808e1630c49a48950d5077d6556eb/44350-source)

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Richmond Hospital Foundation or BC Cancer Foundation. Sincere thanks are extended to the healthcare professionals, family, and friends who supported Alfred and the family during this time.