A Eulogy in Loving Memory by Jeremy Lee.     

Thank you everyone for joining here today to remember and celebrate SoYee's life, someone who has impacted each and every one of us in such a unique and profound way. My memory of her consists of four virtues that I personally hold close to my heart:

Loyalty
Family
Determination
Creativity

All these things made SoYee a true artist. Right from the start, I knew she was the coolest aunt I ever had. She was fiercely loyal she never backed down from a fight for what she believed in. And along the way, she valued her friends deeply, as they were always tied to the values she held close. She had a creative mind, and she was passionate about accomplishing the impossible. Those who knew her best would say she was unwavering beyond all doubt. And to me, that's what made her so impressive.

She was born the youngest and smallest in the Cheung family, in the year of the Rabbit-just like me and she was the only one who fearlessly pursued a creative path. It wasn't easy. The industry she chose was male-dominated, physically demanding, and tough to break into. But her dedication to her craft in media and broadcasting was unmatched. Professional camcorders in the '90s were heavy-20 to 40 pounds and she carried them on her shoulder for hours at a time, capturing story after story. There was never a challenge she turned away from. Even with limited tools, sheer determination, and a heavy rickety ladder, she painted the entire exterior of our two-story house all by herself-proving to Pau Pau that she was not the frail daughter she might have once believed.

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 A Eulogy by Jeremy Lee

Because of SoYee, I've met some of the most wonderful people in my life. Her personality and ability to not just make friends, but to nurture lasting relationships, is something I deeply admire and try to live up to. Without SoYee, I would not have met Janice. Without SoYee, I would not have met Uncle Lincoln and Auntie Anissa, -among many, many others. And to this day, I am indebted to them for their kindness and generosity.

Living with SoYee back in 94 was brief but unforgettable. I came from San Francisco around six years old to live in North Burnaby at 1906 Cliff Ave. SoYee lived in the big bedroom upstairs, across from Grandma's floral bedroom, and my sister and I shared the room next to hers. But the most profound memory I have was that her door was often closed-and thoroughly locked. As a curious kid, that made me wonder about her even more. Eventually, the mystery turned into a sense of awe. Whenever the door cracked open, I would rush in, eager to see what was behind it.

I remember the round white lamp above her big black desk. Her cabinet and Sanyo stereo system, filled with cassettes and CDs-Nevermind by Nirvana, Sting, Elton John, '90s HK singers. One CD my sister and I especially remember is Billy Joel's River of Dreams. One day, in a burst of silliness, SoYee got us to wiggle and jiggle around the room to the music. We laughed so hard. It was ridiculous and euphoric and I'll never forget it.

Other memories come back to me in flashes:

I remember discovering The Far Side comics with her especially the cow dressed like the Mona Lisa on the cover. That started my love for comic books.

She taught me how to play Othello-and somehow I beat her on my very first try.

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A Eulogy by Jeremy Lee


Her old copper Mitsubishi hatchback

Her framed broadcasting degree beside her bed The floral wallpaper behind her headboard.

The long bifold closet doors.

A giant snowball fight in the backyard-her swinging a shovel like a baseball bat while Kau Foo threw snowballs across the yard

Her surprise visit to San Francisco-walling us to George Peabody Elementary.

And when I visited Hong Kong, she was the most amazing host. She brought me to the Dragon's Back trail. We picked vegetables at Ma Shi Po, played badminton at Ma Wan, and ended the day with a lavish seafood dinner with Auntie Joyce and Uncle Simon-chicken, mushrooms, laughter, and warmth.

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A Eulogy by Jeremy Lee 


In her greatest time of difficulty and I can't begin to imagine what it was like to be in her shoes-there was no better person than you, Janice. You were there for her to the very end. The love you shared cannot be put into words. Your dedication to her, through suffering and struggle, is nothing short of a miracle. I am forever grateful, Janice. You gave her peace and strength in those final years. And I want you to know we will always be here for you. Our family sincerely thanks you. And personally, I hope to walk beside you as you start your new chapter in life.

Until then, I want everyone to remember SoYee in the life that she lived strong, creative, loyal beyond all doubt. A fortress of perseverance. She is now resting among angels and our loved ones in the kingdom of the Lord.

We love you, SoYee. We will always remember you. And one day, we'll meet again and when we do, we'll have all the time in the world to talk, laugh, and dance to Billy Joel once more.

Thank you.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

So Kuen Cheung

15 octobre 1963 – 14 mai 2025

Bell & Burnaby Funeral Chapel

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