Mr. Lun Da Chow

He was born on August 19, 1936 in Hoi Ping, Guangdong Province, China, the son of Chow Bing Foo and Chow Shan Gee. He came to Vancouver in 1956 and first worked in a Chinatown restaurant, before improving his English and enrolling in the Vancouver Community College cooking program.

Later, he bought his own coffee shop, the Princeton Café. In 1963, he obtained his Canadian Citizenship and married Pin Pin Kwan on May 17, 1963. The Princeton Café became both a work and social hub where their long-term customers became good friends and others would drop by to socialize and play Mah Jong on weekends.

Lun Da was a hardworking, loyal, and humble man with a good sense of humor who liked to tell jokes, share stories, and listen to music. After retirement from a 30-year career, he moved to Coal Harbour in Downtown Vancouver where he bought the Cadillac he always dreamed of, enjoyed walks, and helped care for his grandchildren. His interests included watching sports and successfully investing in the stock market.

Lun Da is survived by Pin Pin, his loving wife of 59 years, sons Kenny (Ivy), Kenmau (Helen), Davie, daughter Grace (Daniel), grandchildren Christopher, Emily and Stephanie, and his dear friends. All of his children worked at the Café from a young age. From his role modelling, they developed a strong work ethic and now have successful careers.

Lun Da was in remission from his lymphoma for over 10 years before a recent recurrence. He remained strong throughout his challenges. Sincere thanks go to the B.C. Cancer Agency and St. Paul’s Hospital for their care.

The family wishes to thank you for your kind thoughts and condolences during this difficult time.