Reverend John Hing Tjay Liem:
A Blessed Life

A dedicated servant of God of over 60 years, Reverend John Hing Tjay Liem began as youngest child of Christian business owners and “Tjay” to his brothers and sisters. Born in Surabaya, Indonesia, he began his service to God’s work at Bible College in Malang, Indonesia where he met the love of his life and eventual wife of fifty years, Rebecca Jok Lan Tan, also child of Christian business owners but known for her unforgettable grace and love for others. Together they ministered the love of Christ in Indonesia, Canada, USA, Europe, Asia and Australia as sought after ministers.

John was also “Dad” to Janice (& Shaun) Lane and Raymond (& Winnie) Liem who on occasion also joined him in his church and travelling evangelistic ministries. From being a punctual chauffeur for piano lessons, school and other events, to inspiring his kids and grandkids to appreciate music, cars, travel, advice, watches, pens, cameras, humour, technology, good food and most importantly the power of prayer and the Word of God, these were among many good reasons for his family to call themselves blessed to have such a good Dad and Grandpa.

He was proud not only of his children and their successes but especially of his grandchildren whom he would lovingly call “my gifted artist Rachel Liem,” “my doctor of anesthesiology, Dr. Jinessa Lane” and “my doctor of pharmacy, Dr. Joshua Lane (& Laura)” much to their humbling embarrassment.

John Liem was known as founding pastor, pastor and evangelist to multiple churches around the world but especially beloved at his home church family True Light Bible Church.

He loved the souls of people around him and has personally impacted thousands of people for Christ within his 85 years with a commitment to “love God first, family second and then his church work and others”.

God’s blessed hand of timing over John’s life was undeniable. In 2019 before COVID began, he enjoyed what he called “the vacation gift of a lifetime” when he went on his first luxury cruise and first class travel in parts of Europe with family. True to who he was, John was known as “Mr. Congeniality” by guests and crew alike onboard the ship and strangers who became his new friends came to Christ as a result.

In August 2022 John was a happy resident of Amica Swan Lake in Markham where he was surrounded by the best possible staff offering quality lifestyle, meeting every need and giving him the medical attention that was lacking living on his own during COVID. At the sudden news of his failing health, Amica’s wellness team, the medical team at Markham Stouffville Hospital and personal support workers all rallied around John putting him in the best possible hands throughout his remaining days.

His family all flew to be with Dad/Grandpa weeks before his passing to enjoy meaningful conversations, special prayers, gifts of love, meals and gatherings. His family pulled together and cooked all his favourite meals. From wagyu steak, satay ayam, beef rendang, rissoles, etc., his children and grandchildren celebrated his 85th birthday around the table at the house that he and Mom/Grandma enjoyed living prior to her passing in 2014 and his moving to Amica this August. A blessing indeed.

John and his family all united in prayer in the remaining days with a brief battle with cancer, that he would be taken peacefully in his sleep the moment God was ready to welcome him home. The Lord blessed him with the desire of his heart on the morning of October 14, 2022 when he was reunited with his beloved Lord Jesus and darling wife Rebecca.

Psalms‬ ‭115:14-15‬ has summed up the life God has granted John Hing Tjay Liem:

“May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Thank you all who have loved John Hing Tjay Liem. The honour of your presence is welcomed (without flowers) to celebrate his life on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at York Funeral Home. 1:00 pm visitation. 2:00 pm Celebration Service. 160 Beecroft Road, North York | ON.

Live Streaming of John Liem’s Celebration of Life is available for those who would like to join us remotely or via recording for a limited time on this site.