Don Kwoon Chune Yuen passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Zhongshan, China, Don was a devoted family man, a respected business leader, and a caring community pillar.
In 1963, Don and his partners founded Fairway Market. Through his hard work, vision, and passion, he grew the business from a single store into a thriving local grocery chain across Vancouver Island.
Beyond his business success, Don lived a life of deep generosity. He welcomed many new Canadians by providing jobs and mentorship, and he continually gave back to the community he loved. Under his leadership, Fairway Market championed causes close to his heart—including the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival, C-FAX Santas Anonymous, local food banks, and BC Cancer Foundation’s Lights of Courage.
No matter how busy he was with work, family was always Don’s greatest joy. He treasured and loved nothing more than being surrounded by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoyed watching sports, travelling, fishing, and savouring great food.
Don was predeceased by his parents, brothers, and sister. He is survived by Fern, his loving wife of 62 years; his children Wesley, Doug (Yennie), Susan, and Linda; his grandchildren Rachel, Christian, Maxx, Sydney, and Zachary; his sisters Yuen So Chun and Yuen Sai Chun; his goddaughters; and many dear nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, August 24th at 1:00 PM in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC , followed by interment at Royal Oak Burial Park.
Family and friends are warmly invited to a Celebration of Life dinner at 5:00 PM at Don Mee Seafood Restaurant (538 Fisgard Street, Victoria, BC).
In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory are gratefully welcome for:
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (heartandstroke.ca)
Victoria Brain Injury Society (vbis.ca)
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Yuen” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
19 Responses
Doug, I’m so sorry for the loss of your father. Please accept my deepest condolences go out to your Yuen family.
Pat Chow
Doug, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. I did not know him, but I have heard many stories about him over the years. He was definitely loved by all who knew him. Please pass along my condolences to your family.
Cindy
Doug, my deepest condolences on the loss of your father. He was such a wonderful man with a warm and generous spirit that made everyone feel welcome, and I know how deeply you cared for him. Thinking of you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. May the memories you shared with him bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead. I remember your Dad with fondness the I would come by the store to pick up the ad content, he always had a smile for me. he will be missed. RIP Don
I was saddened to hear of Don’s passing and extend sincere condolences on behalf of the Hobden family, some of Fairways closest neighbors beginning in 1964. I was only 5 when we moved into our family home on Albina, but Mom trusted that I would be treated fairly when I was sent across to buy one thing or another.
Over the years, my siblings and I, and both Mom and Dad worked at the store in some form. Some of my fondest memories are of the times I enjoyed working there. Don was truly a mentor to so many young people like us, and prepared us for real life in our career choices that followed our service at Fairways.
I wish peace and comfort to Don’s family from ours.
Our heartfelt condolences – from the Coching Ostan family. Much respect and acknowledgement of the Yuen community and business legacy. Thank you.
I would call on Don at the Gorge Rd location and pick up the ad copy for the Pennysaver, every week. We had great chats, and he was always interesting to talk too. Don was a wonderful man and a huge asset to Victoria. He will be missed.
My condolences to the family.
Mike Cuvelier
Doug, my deepest condolences on the loss of your father. He was such a wonderful man with a warm and generous spirit that made everyone feel welcome, and I know how deeply you cared for him. Thinking of you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. May the memories you shared with him bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
My deepest condolences to the entire Yuen and Fairway family. He was such a pillar for so many. Rest in peace.
Doug. I am very sorry for your loss. Condolences to the entire Yuen family.
Doug
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your father.
I know how much he meant to you and how important family is in your life. Losing a parent is an immense loss, and I am keeping you and your loved ones in my thoughts during this difficult time. He lives on in your hearts.
Wishing you strength, peace, and comfort in the days ahead.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Debbie Hamill