In Loving Memory of Edward Lue Chee Lip (1925 - 2024)

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Edward Lue Chee Lip, who departed peacefully on August 4, 2024, in Toronto at the remarkable age of 100. Born on October 13, 1925, in Shawanzhen, Panyu district, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (at a time when a baby was considered one year old at birth, and two years old upon the following New Year), Edward's life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and dedication.

Edward's early years were marked by hardship. Orphaned at 12 and nearly killed by soldiers during the Second Sino-Japanese War, he wandered from village to village before finding refuge with the Yee family in Wui Lung Po Village. There, he was adopted by Yee Yap Kon and given the name Yee Tiem Fook, joining a family of three sisters and two brothers. Edward lived in Yee village until 1948, when he journeyed to Trinidad to work for his uncle, Yee Mook Ching.

In Trinidad, he was legally adopted by Lue Tung Fat and assumed the name Edward Lue Chee Lip. His entrepreneurial spirit soon flourished as he started his own shop, later expanding into manufacturing soap and mosquito coils. Edward’s ambition led him to purchase land, build factories, and even acquire a supermarket, Victory Supermarket, which thrived during the first oil boom in Trinidad. His success allowed his eight children to pursue higher education and successful careers.

In 1986, Edward and his family migrated to Canada. He opened a successful West Indian grocery store on Baldwin Street in Kensington Market and later ventured into jewelry. His passion for good food and cooking led him to buy an apartment in Chinatown, where he enjoyed the vibrant community and pursued his culinary interests.

Edward's legacy is reflected in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa Lee Mui Jin; his 8 children, Rita (predeceased by Don), Kenneth (Gwen), Ruby (Keith), Anny (Derek), Kenny (Dale), Ken (Joann), David, and Suzette (Paul); 19 grandchildren, Deanna (Kiel), Eithan, Nathanael, Catherine (Dan), Laura (Andrew), Jessica, Natasha, Spencer, Devon, Shannon, Alana, Edward, Kristin, Marisa, Conner, Trevor, Rachael, Abigail, and Chloe; and 3 great-grandchildren, William, James, and Ruby. His brother, Yu Yuk Wah, and sister, Yu Yuen Tai, also survive him.

Edward Lue Chee Lip’s life was characterized by a profound dedication to his family. His hard work, frugality, and commitment to providing the best for his children are enduring testaments to his character. Though he was a man of few words, his actions spoke volumes, shaping the lives of those he loved.

As we bid farewell to Edward, we celebrate a life well-lived—a legacy of perseverance, love, and unyielding support. We are eternally grateful for his sacrifices and contributions. Rest in eternal peace, Pa. Your memory will live on in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

St. Michael's Hospital
https://stmichaelsfoundation.com/ways-to-give

Michael Garron Hospital
https://www.mghf.ca/ways-give