Sonny Cecil Chan Kent

Born in Vancouver, BC, on September 7, 1931, Sonny was the 13th of 16 children of Charles and Toy Chan Kent. He and his older brother, Bunny, started Florence Nightingale Elementary School together in Kindergarten. The family moved across town in 1937 to the Dunbar neighborhood where Sonny graduated from Lord Byng High school in 1951.

He attended the University of British Columbia and graduated with a degree in Commerce in 1955 and then earned his Certified General Accountant designation in 1959. Sonny went on to serve as the financial controller at the family business, Aero Garment. Working alongside his father and brothers, he helped grow the company into one of the largest clothing manufacturers in Western Canada during the 1970s and 1980s.

During his studies, Sonny worked at his father's retail shop, Kent Clothiers, in New Westminster on the weekends. That provided him enough spending money for cigarettes, and a weekly movie and dessert at "Puss and Boots" on Granville with his wife to be (Connie).

Sonny married Connie Wong on June 6th, 1957. They raised 4 children (Warren, Glen, Gary and Joanne) in a loving home and all the children eventually settled around Vancouver. Sonny saw his children and grandchildren on a regular basis as they celebrated holidays, birthdays and milestones together. Sonny was able to celebrate his 94th birthday with his family shortly before his passing.

A lifelong athlete, Sonny was actively involved in organized leagues for baseball, basketball, tennis, and golf. He played for the Chinese Varsity Club basketball team, played in masters-level tennis tournaments from 1980-2005, and was a member of the Quilchena Golf Club. Through these sports and social activities, Sonny formed many long-lasting friendships. Sonny was also an avid student of music (inspired by his sons). He played guitar daily and took lessons until his 90th birthday.

Predeceased by his beloved wife, Connie, in 1998, Sonny is lovingly remembered by his children: Warren (Alison), Glen (Anna), Gary, and Joanne (Andrew); and by his cherished grandchildren: Briana, Alysha, Tayler, Christopher, Braden, Ava, and Aspen.

Sonny was predeceased by his siblings and in-laws: Mary (Ken), Doris (Chuck), Robert (Lesley), Wellington, Joseph (Mae), Noreen (Duncan), Bessie (Eddie), Bunny, and Louise. He is survived by his siblings: Kathleen, Ernie, Susan, and Peter (Rosa).

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks for all the visits, support, and prayers offered for Sonny. Special thanks to the team of helpers that lived with Sonny during his final year and allowed him to stay in a familiar location.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vancouver General Hospital or the BC Cancer Foundation.