Warren Chen

Sept 18, 1931- Jan 25, 2024

Warren Chen, of Vancouver BC, passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Warren was born in Doushan, Tai Shan county of Guangdong province in China on September 18, 1931, as the second son of Mang O Chan and Yuen Choi Chan. He is predeceased by his older brother George, and younger sister and brother, Grace and Frank. Warren is survived by his wife Lena, his three children Phillip, Anna and Karen, and three grandchildren, Justin, Olivia and Joshua.

Warren enlisted in the military after graduating from university in China with a degree in Agricultural Sciences. A few years later, he married Lena and had their first son Phillip in China, prior to joining his brother George in Belize. His daughters Anna and Karen were born in Belize while Warren and his wife ran a small retail business. In search of better opportunities, he decided to move the family to Montreal, Canada where they had extended family. After braving several snowy winters, they finally moved west to Vancouver to join his mother and other family members.

Warren was a patron of the arts. He enjoyed art galleries, and attended classical music concerts and recitals. He was fond of nature and often visited the gardens at Queen Elizabeth Park, especially when the cherry blossoms were in bloom. Warren remained active with hikes at Whytecliff and Lighthouse parks, daily walks around Langara golf course with his wife and neighbours, and practicing tai chi. After retirement, Warren learned Chinese brush painting and calligraphy, and proudly displayed his artwork throughout his home. He enjoyed photography, literature, and gardening. During spring, his front garden would blossom with fragrant roses, dahlias and gladiolas. In autumn, he would share his harvest of goji berries, tomatoes, fuzzy melons, and figs with family and friends.

Despite his growing infirmity, Warren continued to care for his wife with Alzheimer’s. He took pride in seeing his grandchildren grow up into fine young adults. Warren remained astute and kept a keen interest in the world around him, always saying to others, "Be curious." His memory will remain within the hearts of those who were privileged to know this kind, reserved and humble man.

Family and friends are welcome to pay their final respects at Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby at the Chapel on Saturday, February 17th, 2024 between 12:30 to 1:55 pm, with the ground burial to follow at 2:15 pm. A charitable donation to the Alzheimer’s Society can be made in lieu of flowers, if preferred.