Zhiyong Qi

Zhiyong “Jimmy” Qi lived a beautiful and adventurous life that spanned three continents and touched countless hearts. It is with sadness we announce his passing on February 3, 2026, peacefully and surrounded by loved ones.

Jimmy was born in 1953 in Jiangsu, China, to Lieutenant Colonel Dechen Qi and Mrs. Xingzhou Zhang, the fourth of five siblings. He spent his early years in China, where he grew up, studied, and excelled in sports, particularly table tennis and track and field. From a young age, Jimmy showed discipline, curiosity, and a deep love of learning.

His professional life in China reflected his global outlook. He worked as an English teacher, business language interpreter, and later an ocean shipping insurance manager—always driven by a fascination with the wider world. Jimmy met the love of his life, Suying, in high school. After university, they married in 1980 and welcomed their son, Bruce, in 1982, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, resilience, and shared dreams.

At age 38, in 1991, Jimmy led his family on a new adventure to Vaasa, Finland, seeking opportunity and international experience. There, he continued his education at the Swedish-speaking Åbo Akademi University and later taught as a Lecturer of Language at the University of Vaasa. Jimmy often spoke of Finland as the most special time in his life—a place where he formed deep friendships and bonds with his Finnish family that remained close to his heart.

In 1999, Jimmy’s journey continued as he immigrated with his family to Canada, settling in Vancouver, British Columbia. Soon after, he was offered the opportunity to teach at the prestigious Defense Language Institute as an Associate Professor, sharing his decades of experience in language and culture. This role took him to Monterey, California, where he dedicated himself to training countless officers and cadets, earning multiple honors from the U.S. Department of Defense, including the Commandant’s Coin of Excellence. During these years, Jimmy embraced new passions—golfing, sharing his lifelong love of table tennis, and even learning to fly as a member of the Monterey Navy Flying Club.

After 15 years of service, Jimmy retired in 2017 and returned home to Vancouver to be close to his beloved wife, son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Retirement only deepened his devotion to family. He continued supporting BC Community Living, also discovered a true passion for woodworking—crafting furniture, building playhouses, and proudly serving as the family’s “repairman-in-chief.” Above all, he cherished his grandchildren, loving them more than the universe itself.

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife Suying, son Bruce, daughter-in-law Natalie, and grandchildren Archer, Austin, and Allison.

Jimmy’s remarkable journey leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, curiosity, and family that spans the globe. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched and the stories we will forever cherish.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre on February 12, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Those of you who are unable to attend may watch the livestream of the service via: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/120441. The service will also be recorded for your convenience.