Judy Soe Lan Yee (nee Chan) passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 28th, 2019 in her home of 54 years, after being cared for in her final years by her good friend, Daisy Breuer. Born in 1939 in Surabaya, Indonesia to a large family, she made her mark early in her adult life by working as a translator in Hong Kong. She spoke five languages, which opened the world to her and soon she would find herself in Canada, marrying Dick (Jeg Yung) Yee. Dick and Judy worked tirelessly to build their business, the Seven Oaks Store at the intersection of Carey Road and Glanford Avenue. Neighbours and friends came to the store for more than groceries; they came to drink Chinese tea and hear her stories and opinions, about which she never hesitated to share. While small in physical stature, Judy was a larger-than-life personality who gave the world more than she ever took.
As the business grew, so did the family. She is survived by her children, Lori (Alec), Trevor, Karen ( John), Kim ( Brian) and Lili ( Dean).
Judy never seemed to run out of energy, raising a family, running the store and managing numerous rental properties in and around Victoria, with occasional travel abroad to Asia. Mom always said the reason she worked so hard was to provide for her children so that they could succeed in life. Her later years, following the passing of her husband, Dick Yee in 2003, were spent at a slower pace, talking with friends, looking after a large garden, taking pride in her children’s accomplishments and showing pictures of her cherished grandchildren, Adam, Alexandria, John Jr., Jaclyn, Madelyn, Nicholas and Ella.
Judy (Mom) was a great friend and neighbour, a beautiful and loving mother and wife. She will be missed tremendously but never forgotten.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Gabrielle Tong
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Marjorie Fenwick My Condolences to the family. I will always remenber your Mom and Dad from Seven Oaks we lived not to far from the store so we knew them well.
I visited your Mom on the ferry on our way home from Vancouver some time ago and we caught up on days gone by. She was a very lovely interesting lady and will not be forgotten. She was so proud of all
of her children. You where so fortunate to have her in your lives.
It is with tremendous sadness that I write this message of condolence.
I will always remember your mother as a cheery, energetic person and who lived a life of fulfillment and devotion to her family.
Please take care and…
May God comfort all of you during this difficult time.