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
Dear Sir,
As I return to this page and contemplate your presence on the internet, perusing your photobooks and pictures, and reminiscing about our shared moments, I find myself grappling with a myriad of emotions. Uncertainty fills my heart as I ponder whether my feelings will manifest as happiness or sadness.
Observing the vast multitude of individuals who hold you in high esteem, expressing their adoration and admiration for your virtuous character, brings a measure of solace to my soul. Amidst my sorrow, witnessing the widespread love and appreciation bestowed upon you provides a semblance of comfort.
From my earliest years, I carry vivid memories of the times we spent together, etching in my mind the moments when I proudly extolled your virtues to my classmates and friends. There was a time when I harbored the fervent desire to accompany you to Canada, yearning for the opportunity to share in your experiences. Alas, little did I foresee that the Divine would summon you from our midst so unexpectedly. How I wish I had seized every moment to relish your presence fully.
Regrettably, circumstances now prevent me from visiting you, but I solemnly pledge that I shall make a diligent effort to enrich myself so that one day I may undertake a pilgrimage to pay my respects. On that momentous day, I shall offer the most exquisite sympathy flower as a token of my profound appreciation, for you bestowed upon us boundless love and selfless support to my family without seeking recompense.
You are an indelible presence in my life, and I anticipate our eventual reunion with fervent eagerness. In striving to emulate your exemplary qualities, I promise to conduct myself with the utmost integrity and compassion. Thank you, for your unwavering dedication and loyalty to your workers in the Philippines. The love and admiration we hold for you are immeasurable.
With deepest gratitude and heartfelt regards,
Ana Rose Aniban
Ninong wilson I will treasure all memory that we have since I was a child. We are very thankful for your kindness.
We always love you