Obituary of King Wong Chiu 趙黃敬歡

January 30, 1928 – Guangdong, China

Sunday, March 3, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

King Chiu (Wong King Foon), of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the age of 96 years.

King was born the youngest of three on January 30, 1928, in Qiaolong Village, Guangdong Province, China. Her early life was marked by hard work in the sugarcane fields, and despite not having the opportunity for formal education, she possessed a profound wisdom and resilience that would carry her through life’s challenges.

At the age of sixteen, she was married through a matchmaker, but her early years of marriage were fraught with hardship. She endured adversity from her mother-in-law and long hours of housework without proper nourishment, however, she found strength in her growing family. She bore nine children and is survived by six.

In 1954, King embarked to Hong Kong with a one-way permit to reunite with her husband. Over the years, she called various neighbourhoods home, including Wan Chai, Shau Kei Wan, North Point, Tin Wan, and Aberdeen.

Tragedy struck in 1967, when King’s husband passed away due to illness, leaving her the sole responsibility of providing for her large family. She found work in construction as a bricklayer, working at 5:00 a.m. each day and returning home at 11:00 p.m., ensuring her children had food on the table and a roof over their heads.

In 1980, her eldest daughter immigrated to Calgary, AB, with King following suit with her four youngest children, leaving behind her second and third daughters. Bravely venturing into a new country despite not knowing English, she found employment as a dishwasher in a hotel, later moving on to work at the Deerfoot Mall: Stephen Avenue Soup Company, where she was a beloved employee.

In 1984, King proudly became a Canadian citizen, and with newfound stability and opportunities, she was finally able to enjoy life to the fullest. She cherished the time spent with her family, especially her twelve grandchildren whom she adored beyond measure.

Throughout her retirement years, King embraced the opportunity to travel, exploring destinations such as Japan, Singapore, Mexico, Hawaii, Orlando, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Her last trip abroad was in 2016, visiting Taiwan and Hong Kong–reminiscing about her roots.

King will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her selfless devotion to her family, and her drive for life. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, love, and perseverance that will continue to inspire future generations. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Reception to follow at the Central Grand Restaurant.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join King Wong's service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with King Wong’s family here.

In living memory of King Wong Chiu, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.

Click to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch King Wong Chiu's Funeral Service