Our mom, Mei Wan Fong, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and loved ones on August 10, 2023 in Toronto. She was born in Guangdong province, in a suburb of Hoi Ping City in 1933. She met our father there and got married in 1952 and had a daughter (Susan) a year later. To escape the Communists, they moved to Hong Kong in 1955 and had 3 more children (Jack, Jim and Kit). In Hong Kong, mom was busy raising her 4 children while dad focused on his career.

To seek a better life for their 4 children, the family emigrated to Canada in 1966. They moved to North Bay to work with our grandfather, Harry, at the Plaza Restaurant. Eventually, they took over the business when grandfather retired. Working 7 days a week, doing everything in the kitchen, work was hard and the hours were long. The winters were cold and traditional Chinese food and vegetable were minimal. Nevertheless, they persevered and raised all 4 children to have successful careers.

Mom and dad finally retired in 1986. They followed their children moving to Toronto and settled in Scarborough. They finally took their first vacation after 20 years of continuous work and visited their home town in China.

Mom was a great cook; especially her jong, lor bak go and her amazing soups (lo for tong). She was happiest when around her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She would pamper the kids with her food and make sure they are well fed.

Mom really enjoyed watching baseball. Her favorite team is obviously, the Blue Jays. We can see her passion for the game, when she would yell at the screen every time the Blue Jays make a bad play.

She also enjoys travelling with her children exploring Canada and all over the U.S. Mom especially love going on cruises. She also enjoys the occasional trip to the Casino. She would spend hours at the penny slots, sometimes until late into the night. She enjoys the variety of food at the Casino buffet and restaurants, as well as, the concerts and shows.

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She will always be in our hearts and memories!

Mei Wan was predeceased by her husband, King Woon Fong. She is survived by her four children – Susan (Ferdinando), Jack (Angela), Jim (late Purita) and Kit (George); nine grandchildren (Melissa, Edward, Justin, Aaron, Jason, Michael, Matthew, Steven and Jennifer) and 4 great-grandchildren (Winston, Lorenzo, Emilianna, Ferdinando).

Her funeral will be a private ceremony with her children and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sunnybrook Hospital or Heart and Stroke Foundation.