Obituary of Mee Chew YEE

November 14, 1929 – Taishan, China August 12, 2017 – Calgary, Alberta YEE, Mee Chew (Joe) passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 12th in Calgary, AB surrounded by his family. Joe was born in Taishan, China on November 14, 1929. He immigrated to Canada in 1952 and lived in Winnipeg, Sintaluta, Maple Creek, Watrous and other small prairie towns. In these small towns, Joe worked at many restaurants with his father. The restaurant experience would eventually land him a chef position with Golf’s Steakhouse in Regina. For a period of time, he drove a taxi as a second job to earn extra money to feed his growing family. In 1976, he embarked on a new endeavor. Joe purchased a small confectionary store on 13th Avenue which he renamed as Kowloon Confectionary. He operated the business for many years, expanding it to include Chinese groceries, and eventually becoming the only supplier of fresh beansprouts to local Regina Chinese restaurants. Joe’s love of food and his restaurant experience was still a big part of him and in 1981 he opened Kowloon Restaurant. Joe’s smile, friendly demeanor, sincerity, and the Wonton soup earned his business respect in the community. He would stop at your table and say hello and thank you for coming in. He remembered everyone’s name and they remembered his. He worked tirelessly and in 2001 decided to sell the business and retire. Upon retirement, Joe split his time between Calgary and Toronto and eventually Calgary and Virginia to help his children with his grandchildren. He loved travelling (especially cruising), golf, working on puzzles, going to casinos, shooting the breeze with his friends and of course, doting on his grandchildren. Leaving to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 47 years, Wai Yu (Mary); his children Greg Yee of Indian Head, Garvey Yee of Moose Jaw, Gail Yee (Joe McKeown) of Virginia, Glen Yee (Lorrane) of Calgary; grandchildren and great grandchildren (18 in total!); nephews, nieces and many caring friends and family across the world. A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.), on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Lunch to follow graveside. The family wishes to respectfully decline receiving flowers. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Joseph Yee, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W. Telephone: 403-241-0044.