With immense sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Wilson Sze Chong Lai at home on February 20th, 2018.
Wilson was born in 1938 in China. He finished his secondary education in Hong Kong and went to the University of Melbourne, Australia for his university education. After accomplishing his bachelor degree in Commerce, he went back to Hong Kong to join in the family fabric business. With his participation, the family business expanded and flourished. He travelled all over Europe and S.E. Asia in search of fabric and made many long-term friendships with people there.
With the Cultural Revolution in China spreading to Hong Kong, he, his father and elder brother came to Victoria, BC to visit one of their friends. They were introduced to Mr. David Burr senior who in turn introduced the Leland apartment block along Douglas Street for them to buy. There were subsequent purchases after they went back to Hong Kong.
In 1997 when the lease of Hong Kong to the British was expiring, his family diversified their business to Victoria with the construction of the City Centre Plaza and the establishment of Gala Fabrics. For all of these developments, Wilson was the prime mover in the family. He made many friends in Victoria an Vancouver.
He is survived by his 50 years plus relationship partner Douglas, brothers S.N. and Ephrem, sister-in-law Rosa and Judith, sisters Janice and Isabella and many nephews and nieces.
We would like to thank Dr. Rosenberg, Dr.Manning and their staff for all the care given to Wilson.
A Funeral Service for Wilson will be held on Wednesday, February 28th, 2018 at 10 am in The Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, with a Celebration of his Life to be announced at the Service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Victoria Foundation, 703 Broughton Street #200, Victoria, BC V8W 1E2.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
32 Responses
Alife that touches others go on forever. The passing of Uncle Wilson will leave a deep, deep void in many of our hearts. May the love and tenderness of golden years we spent with him be remembered by all of us. May memories of his kindness and generosity be our strength; may his wits and wisdom wipe away our tears and bring us hope; and may his love of life and jovial nature continue to shine on us.
Uncle Wilson, may you rest in eternal peace.
From Catherine (daughter of Lai Lai Yue) & my Yeoh family extend our deepest sorrow and sympathy to our grieving uncles and aunts of the Lai family, and to Uncle Douglas.
Wilson was more than a good friend to the Burr family; he was a kind, beloved “Uncle” who was always happy to see us. A gracious and charming gentleman who offered his assistance whenever and wherever needed.
He was elegant, loyal and sincere. He cared first for his family and we remember how proud he was of his nieces and nephews.
We offer our condolences to his family, especially to Douglas. We will remember Wilson with great fondness and respect.
Georgia, Imogen, Stephanie and Sam
We are deeply saddened by Uncle Wilson’s passing. He was well-loved, witty, flamboyant and full of character. We have so many wonderful memories of him that we will forever treasure. We remember Uncle Wilson as a successful entrepreneur and a philanthropist. His big heart touched so many people…from generous donation to the Victoria Hospital Foundations to his philanthropic work abroad.
Uncle Wilson, you will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by your family and friends.
Uncle Doug, Uncle Ephrem, Uncle Sze Nuen, Auntie Janice and Auntie Isabella, wishing you strength and courage in this very sad time.
Just sitting here reading Sunday’s Times Colonist. I am so sorry about “Uncle Wilson”.
I am proud to have met such a fine man!
My sincere condolences to all the Lai Family..
I send my love to all who are grieving his passing.
Sincerely, Lois Tremblay
My deepest sympathy to Douglas and to all the Lai Family. Wilson was a huge part of so many lives – his kindness and generosity touched many and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. Rest now Wilson, your work is done.
Very sincere condolences to all of Uncle Wilson’s family. My thoughts are especially with those of you whom I have shared memories of banquets and visits. Find comfort knowing our Uncle is reunited with many beloved family and friends.
My very dear friends Joanna and Wilson are together in Heaven. You were both so very kind and generous on earth. Please talk to God and send your blessing to all of us for Peace on Earth. We need your help.
Douglas, please accept my sympathy, be brave and try to enjoy what you can each day. Wilson will be with you spiritually.
Love and sympathy to all of Wilson’s relatives and friends from Annie Sein.
We are deeply saddened by the news about our dear Uncle Wilson. He was truly a blessing to everyone and what a warm feeling it had been to be around him. We cherish all the fond moments we shared with him over the years. He will be greatly missed and remembered in our hearts forever. Our thoughts and prayers go with our relatives as we standby Uncle Douglas and the Lai family during this time.
Matilda, Michael, Janice & Gabrielle
Wilson was loved by so many, he will be sorely missed by Douglas, the Lai Family and his many many friends.
Goodnight and God Bless dear Wilson.
I met Uncle Wilson many years through my sister in law, Ellen. Uncle Wilson was truly an amazing person who will always be remembered for his warm smile, his laughter and kindness.
He will leave a lasting impression in our hearts forever.
To Uncle Doug and the Lai Family, may the comfort of God help you through this very difficult time. Words may not wipe away your tears, hugs may not ease the pain. Hold onto your memories of this special man, as they will remain forever. Lynnie Lew