Jack Say Yee

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Jack Say Yee of Port Coquitlam, BC, who left us peacefully on March 24, 2025, at Royal Columbian Hospital, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family. Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife of 54 years, Elaine, whose absence he carried in his heart until the end. He was also predeceased by his five brothers and one sister.

He is lovingly remembered by his two sons, Bradley (Brenda) and Richard (Kirk), and his cherished grandchildren, Brenden (Ashley), Breanna (Michael), and Brittani (Eric). Jack’s legacy lives on through his family, who will forever carry the light of his kindness, wisdom, and love.

Born on August 27, 1938, in Victoria, BC, to Yee Yat Fine and Lum So Wah, Jack spent his childhood in Vancouver’s Chinatown, where he was nurtured by a vibrant and loving community. He attended Strathcona Elementary School and King Edward Secondary School in Vancouver before moving to San Francisco, where he graduated from Lowell High School. Jack’s academic journey continued at San Francisco State University, where he earned his degree, followed by a Master’s in Social Work from the University of British Columbia.

For many years, Jack devoted himself to helping others as a Psychiatric Social Worker, Educational Counsellor at BCIT, and later, as an Emergency Department Social Worker at Burnaby Hospital. His unwavering compassion and dedication made a profound impact on everyone he encountered.

A man who always sought to make the world a better place, Jack also became a trailblazer in his community, serving as the first Chinese Canadian School Board Trustee in Vancouver during the 1970s. He was a passionate advocate for the Chinese Merchants Association and the Chinese Cultural Centre in Vancouver, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and service.

In his retirement, Jack found immense joy in attending his grandchildren’s high school and university basketball games and going out to dine with his family.

Jack’s heart was never far from his beloved Elaine, whom he missed dearly after her passing three years ago. His final months were spent in the caring embrace of his family, with special gratitude to his nephew, Dr. William Siu, and the staff of Royal Columbian Hospital for their invaluable support during Jack’s time in the hospital.

A private service will be held on April 15, 2025, with inurnment at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, where Jack will be laid to rest. His memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be missed more than words can express.