Kam Ming (Gordon) Kwan

Gordon will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 69 years, Wai So; children: Cynthia (Sam), Stephen (Dora), Larry (Amy) and Bonnie (Peter); grandchildren: Nelson (Carlee), Tina (Phillip), Curtis, Natalie, Jason (Ivy) and Ryan; and great-grandchildren: Aubrey and Jakob.

Gordon was born on April 18th, 1933 in Hoi Ping, Guangdong, China. He grew up in China with his (6) siblings. He spent most of his childhood playing by the lake with his siblings, exploring the outdoors and enjoying nature. At the age of 16, he started working for the family business while attending school. After graduation, he worked as a teacher and within a few years, he became a principal. In 1952, Gordon married his wife, Wai So. They have been inseparable since the first day they met. It was evident that their love for one another grew as each day passed.

In 1957, Gordon and his family moved to Hong Kong. During his time in Hong Kong, he worked at a clothing store and eventually started his own business. Always wanting the best for his family, he gave up his business in 1973 and emigrated to Canada in hopes of better opportunities for his family. From there, he started working as a kitchen helper. Through his committed work ethic and ability to learn, he was quickly promoted to head chef. As the head chef, he led the entire kitchen staff despite having no previous training.

In his personal life, Gordon enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren. He was a very outgoing individual and his positive attitude was truly infectious. He was always able to carry out a conversation with anyone in the room. Gordon’s favourite pastimes included playing mahjong, gardening, cooking, and going for walks. His love for people was evident in his hospitality. He and his wife created a home that was full of life and love. Friends and families could be seen every weekend laughing and enjoying a game of mahjong that would go late into the night.

Gordon undoubtedly embodied kindness, compassion and warmth. His character often mirrored Jesus through his sacrificial love and compassion for others. In the latter stages of his life, Gordon committed himself to Christ, to receive the grace of Jesus and the promise of eternal life with his Heavenly Father. We mourn the loss of our loved one but rest in the assurance that he is with his Creator.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

A celebration of Gordon’s life will be held on Thursday, September 30th, 2021 at 1:00pm, at the Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial St. Burnaby, BC.