It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Colette Yen, wife, mother, grandmother (Poh Poh), sister, and friend. Colette, a lover of good food, cooking, travel, paddling, socializing, and the outdoors, passed away after a courageous fight against cancer on October 13, 2026 at the age of 77. Those who knew Colette feel blessed to have spent time sharing many stories, adventures and laughter with her, and knew she was always there to support and lift them up through tough times.
A favourite quote of Colette’s:
"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, 'Wow! What a Ride!'"
Colette leaves behind her husband of 56 years, Peter, children Adrienne (Chris), and Taryn (Blake), grandchildren, Kiana (Sterling), Malia, Emmie, and Dylan, brother and sisters Irene (George), Dave (Mary Grace), Maureen, Barbara (Norman), Suzanne (Lawrence), Glenys (Dean), sisters-in-law Rebecca and Evelyn, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Low Wai and York Gook Fong, and brother Joseph.
Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. While we mourn our loss, we also celebrate her wonderful and adventurous life.
A memory page at BC Cancer Agency has been created to donate in her honour. https://bccancerfoundation.com/coletteyen
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30am on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Holy Cross Parish, 1450 Delta Ave, Burnaby.
