Ms. Kam Kuen Yeung

Kam Kuen Yeung was born in 1914 and lived to 104 years old. She was born in Sun Ming Ting Village of Zhong Shan, in China. As a young child, she was guided by her parents’ firm, yet caring teachings. This led her to become a responsible, kind, and empathetic person. She was instilled with the virtues of working hard and being conservative, and she carried these virtues with her throughout her life.

In turn, she taught and instilled in her following generations the qualities of honesty and modesty. When faced with a challenging task or adversity, she emphasized perseverance. She was never boastful nor materialistic. These were the principles she lived by.

Although Kam Kuen did not receive much formal schooling, she was a hard worker and listened attentively to the teachers that she did have. She had a love for learning and as a result, she was able to write Chinese calligraphy beautifully, and was able to use an abacus skillfully. In her youth, when it was uncommon for many people to be literate, she taught herself to read and write Chinese fluently. She received praise and much admiration from her elders and from her family including her in-laws. After getting married, she helped out with the family business. However, due to her mother-in-law passing away at an early age, and because she was the eldest, Kam Kuen was given the responsibility of looking after and caring for all of her husband’s siblings and their children, some of whom were from the same generation as her. Even in such an environment, she did not complain, and she was well-respected by those who she cared for.

After China’s liberation, her life and environment changed again, and she started a tailoring business with her friends. She worked as a seamstress making suits and ball gowns until 1953 when she moved to Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, she worked in a clothing factory sewing clothes. The work was hard, but she managed and was content with her life.

Then, in 1973, she moved to Canada with her son and his family. She was a homemaker and took care of her grandchildren. During this time, life for her was simple and relatively carefree. Occasionally she would travel to Australia to visit with her siblings’ families and other relatives. These were the best years of her life.

In 2008, due to her old age, she moved to The Cedars Assisted Living Home where she made new friends, continued to learn new skills, and participated in many different activities. At The Cedars, she lived under the care of many helpful and attentive nurses and care workers. She was grateful and happy to be living there. We would like to express our gratitude to the Cedars Staff and especially to the nursing manager, Margit, for the exceptional care she received.

A couple of months ago, In December 2017, Kam Kuen had an unfortunate fall. She was admitted to the hospital for a broken arm where she was recovering nicely, and was discharged just before Christmas. Although she put up a good fight, she was never able to fully recover, and on the night of February 11, she passed away peacefully with her family by her side.

Although Kam Kuen has left us, we will always remember her wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love. Rest in Peace.