"The opportunity to serve" is the highest compliment McInnis & Holloway could receive.
Phone: 403-243-8200
Text: 403-256-9575
Obituary of Phil Lai 黎樹光
November 2, 1933 – Guangdong, China
December 13, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta
The family of Phil Lai are deeply saddened to announce his passing on Friday, December 13, 2024, in Calgary, AB, at the age of 91 years.
Phil was born in the province of Guangdong, China, on November 2, 1933. He married his lifelong companion Anne in 1951, and they had recently celebrated their 73rd anniversary.
In 1953, Phil immigrated to Saskatoon, SK, where he was joined by Anne, Paulina, and Jeanette in 1964. Phil and Anne welcomed two more daughters, Helen and Phyllis.
Phil’s life passions were his family, fishing, and road trips. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was a successful businessman, owning restaurants, a grocery store, a laundromat, and several properties throughout his career, and was able to retire in his early fifties.
Phil is survived by his wife Anne, his three daughters, Paulina Li (Louis), Jeanette Chow (Steve), and Phyllis Mack (Dean); his eight grandchildren, Jennie LeBeau (Rey), James Li (Emma), Melissa Chow-Lemus (Andre), Samantha Blushke (Chris), Michael Blushke, Ryan Mack (Aashna), Jared Mack, and Jessica Mack; and five great-grandchildren, Jordan Li, Jayden Li, Angelina Lemus, Makayla Lemus, and Ronin Mack.
Phil was predeceased by his daughter Helen Blushke in September 2023.
Phil lived his life on his own terms – independently, with integrity, and with longevity.
He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.
Rest in peace, Ba Ba. You are now together with Helen.
Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Calgary Crematorium, 3219 – 4th Street NW, Calgary, AB, within the valley of Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Phil’s family here.
In living memory of Phil Lai, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Calgary Crematorium, 3219 – 4th Street NW, Calgary, AB, T2M 3A6, Telephone: 403-299-0111.
