Eulogy;
He was raised in Wong Bo How village in Gwongdung province. He had to work hard to provide for himself and his family because his mother died when he was 16. He left China to find work in Hong Kong when the Communists took over. He tried to escape the Communists because there would be recruitment into the army, no democracy, and no freedom. Then in 1952 he met up with his father and brother who already lived and worked in Ocean Falls, British Columbia (a coastal community south of Prince Rupert). Despite the discrimination, language barrier, culture shock, and new environment, he found kitchen work at Martin Inn Hotel. Even if working conditions were not ideal, he made more money in Canada then he did in China. Eventually he had enough money to fly back and forth between Canada and Hong Kong. He later had enough money to move to Vancouver in 1965. His hard work paid off because in 1966 he was able to bring his wife and three children to Canada. 

He and his family integrated into Canadian society, while maintaining their language and culture at home. To this day, his children are bilingual Chinese-Canadians that fit into Canadian society, while also appreciating the Chinese language, culture, and food that comes with it. 

In Vancouver, he worked as a parts person for General Motors and Kenworth truck-building Company. The home he bought 52 years ago is much improved because of his woodworking and renovation skills. He was quite the handyman, and his vast number of tools in his workshop were some of his prized possessions. He built the garage, steps in front & back of home, added cabinets in the kitchen, and even a spinning platform for the dining table so the family could share the food like in Chinese restaurants. 

He was able to not just survive in Canada, but thrive. He bought TVs and stereo equipment.  He had great aptitude in setting up electronic devices and using them.  He enjoyed taking photographs a lot, too, especially during his travels around Canada, US, and Asia. He enjoyed taking road trips and had driven as far south as California and east to Regina. Another hobby in Ocean Falls was developing film from the camera into photographs. He also took many photos of his children and 3 grandchildren growing up. 

He retired when he was 55 when Kenworth closed its Canadian operations. He lived a happy life with his wife. He enjoyed watching TV and listening to music, having his afternoon snacks and coffee, and seeing friends and family. He became a grandfather 20 years ago. Something nice he always did to make his grandchildren happy is make Jell-O the night before they came over, even as the grandchildren became teenagers and young adults. Something else that never changed was getting goodbye hugs from the grandchildren before leaving his house. Heartfelt moments like this will be missed. 

When his wife died 10 years ago his perseverance continued. He was able to independently go to places like the bank, restaurants, and Chinatown  driving into his 80's. Cooking every meal at home was not fun for him so he would eat out or order food to take home. When he stopped driving, he used the bus. 

His children, grandchildren, and family are forever grateful for his hard work to establish a good life in Canada. Because of him, generations after him are able to live in a multicultural society that values democracy and freedom.

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Hau Chan

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OBITUARY

Hau Kwan Chan

3 September, 1926 – 17 December, 2017

Glenhaven Memorial Chapel

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