Nov 18, 1936 – Feb 4, 2013
The Eng family is sad to announce the sudden passing of Willie Eng on Feb 4, 2013. He will be missed and always remembered by his wife Jane and their children, Daymon (Joanna), Fenton (Susie) and Lannette (Jak New), and his 6 grandchildren Talissa, Ethan, Dylan,Hailey, Kyle, and Carter. He is also survived by mother Mary, sister Louise (Dick Woo), brother Victor (Jane), and sister-in-law Ann, and his many loving nieces and nephews. Willie’s father Eddy and brother Tony predecease him.
Born in Canton City, China, Willie arrived in Canada at the age of 13 and quickly embraced life on Vancouver Island. His teen years were spent assisting his parents, Eddy and Mary Eng, and alongside his brothers Victor and Tony at the Beacon Café in Sidney.He married Jane Chow in 1966 and they quickly established their family in Victoria. As with all his endeavours, he worked hard to put himself through school and became a Chartered Accountant. He operated his own accounting practice in Victoria and spent his free time on the Uplands Golf Course. He was involved in many community organizations including the Victoria Chinatown Lions Club and the Victoria Chinese Chamber of Commerce and helped establish a strong Chinese community in Victoria. His many years in Victoria allowed him to forge life-long friendships that he treasured. His strongest devotion was to his family and his later years were spent enjoying many happy times with his grandchildren. Willie will always be remembered for his charismatic, generous spirit and his love of people. He was an exuberant father and grandfather and a truly unique and special person. Dad, we raise a glass to you at the 19th hole.
A private, immediate family only celebration of life has been held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Victoria Chinatown Lions Club c/o 1883 San Juan Avenue, Victoria, B.C., V8N 2J3. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
33 Responses
Dear Jane and family,
It was a sad shock to read of Willie’s passing. Although we usually saw him only once a year, at Christmas, he was always friendly and cheerful, a really upbeat person, and he added much sparkle to the party. His passing will leave a great void in many lives, most especially in those of the family.
We send you all our heartfelt sympathy.
Most sincerely, Janet and Ken
Dear Jane & family,
We were so sad to hear about Willie’s passing. We have fond memories of his exuberant energy and how he embraced his many interests, including all his activities with the Chinatown Lions Club. He has truly left the world a better place.
We are thinking of you and send you our heartfelt condolences.
Helen & Larry
To Willy’s family
My sincerest condolences. I have very poignant memories of working with Willy and his friends in the founding and establishing the Western & Pacific Bank of Canada (now the Canadian Western Bank).
Yours sincerely
Bill Barratt
To Jane and Family
I am so sorry to hear about Willie’s passing. He is in Heaven and with God now.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Love Joyce and Garry
Deepest sympathy. will remember him in my prayers.
Vilma
We were so sorry to learn of Willy’s passing. He was a kind and gentle man who always had time to make one feel special. Once, when Lita and I were in Victoria, Wendy took us to see Willy at his office and, even though he was obviously busy, he took time to visit with us and made us feel so welcome. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dear Jane and Family,
Carol and I are very saddened to read about Willie. Although we haven’t seen each other for many years we have a connection that goes back over 50 years. We remember the fun we had at dinners, dances and each other weddings, so long ago. Phil remembers his trip to San Francisco in Willie’s little Morris Minor. We are pleased to read about your famiy, who we know will be a great help and comfort to you. With very deepest sympathy to you and your family,
Phil and Carol Winterbottom
To Willie’s family. I first met Willie when he came to Sidney School.. he was in Grade 2 with me for one day, and of course he moved on until the teachers decided where he should be placed. He ended up graduating with my husband from NSHS. We saw him last year at a school reunion, it was great to see Victor with him. Many a good meal was had at the BEACON CAFE! The Engs were a great , hard working family. He shall be missed. Thinking of you at this sad time. Dave&Lynn Marshall
Hi Jane!
So sorry to hear about Willy’s passing. My love and deepest sympathy to you and your family.
If you’re ever out this stop by to visit.
Love, cousin Muriel
Jane & family – my sincere sympathy.
What a shock. Stopped in to have a chat with Willie not too long ago, saw him at hockey game, last year. He was his usual self, full of life, updated me on all his family, and queried the health and wellbeing of my family. Told me that the family home was up for sale, so assumed that he was preparing for retirement, as if he ever would be.