An American Success Story – Andrew Leong Yu Chan, RIP

He passed away on October 6. The Program for his funeral is located here. (Even though the last page is upside down, it should read correctly if printed)

Click on the link below to continue reading the eulogy given by Mr. Peter Zee on behalf of Jackson Wan:

On the morning of Oct 6, Hilda and I attended a funeral service. Before entering the church, I turned off my cell phone. We heard from the family how Eddie, our friend had suffered from diabetes and cancer enduring through eight major amputation operations and countless number of doctors and hospital visits over a period of 13 long years. Our hearts were heavy.

That after noon, in checking on my cell phone, there were four missed calls all from the same number and one voice message. It was Lily. She asked me to return her call. Her voice was firm, calm but shaky. I sensed something major was wrong. I asked Hilda to call Lily back instead since she can handled unexpected situations better than I can. As it turned out she could not handled the tragic news either and was crying uncontrollably. Our hearts were shattered.

As a new immigrant seeking the American Dream, Andrew worked tirelessly and fearlessly in his early ages and in fact through most of his entire life. He succeeded, failed and succeeded again. His entrepreneur spirit in taking risks and work ethics were characteristic of that of Hakka Culture. And in fact he is a Son of Hakka, and had been proud of it all his life..

His roots were very important to him. Back in the village where he came from, he knew many in his extended families who could benefit from the opportunities that this country offers. He volunteered assistance spending time, energy and financial resource for those who were willing to accept new challenges in this new country. He worked selflessly through sponsorship in bringing in many to this country. His work did not stop there. He knew security was critical to the new immigrants. He provided employment opportunities as well and where appropriate, sought job opportunities on their behalves. As these new arrivals grew in confidence and maturity Andrew taught them entrepreneurship and subsequently many became his business associates and fulfilling their share of the America Dream. I am sure many mourners in attendance today will agree with this assessment.

I remember distinctly he said his actions were small compared to the impact to the lives of the immigrants. It changed the course of their lives and that of their children. Andrew, you can proudly take credit of the fact in witnessing their success and that of their off springs. The success comes about through ‘small actions’ on your part. Many are grateful for what you did.

Andrew was a 100 percent family man. Outside of business his entire focus was on his family. He was a dutiful and respectful toward his parents and the parents in law, loving and caring husband and father and grand father. He loved and worshiped his wife Rebecca. A 100% care giver, he over saw every minute detail when Rebecca fell ill. He never spoke ill of anyone. He even learnt to pass judgment on Rebecca’s MJ skill in a constructive way.

Following his retirement, he thought of nothing more enjoyable than spending time with his children and grand children. The tomato beef that Stephen liked as a kid is now a favorite of Kyle’s, just to give you an example. He loved to cook for them.

I remember one time we were traveling Europe together. Stephen and I shared a room,, Andrew and Rebecca another. Stephen developed some flu-like symptoms one night. Early next morning at six o’clock, Andrew was there at the door with some pill and a glass of water. He reached out to feel his son’s forehead for temperature. And then put his hands around his face. Stephen, in his late 20’s and about to get married felt embarrassed on his father’s affection in the presence of Uncle Jack. He complained to his dad that he is not a baby any more and no need to baby him. Stephen, you were wrong. That goes for Lily and Irene as well. You are always his babies He felt he never love and care for and protect you enough and always wanting to do more. This is perhaps something your father never had the opportunity to tell you. In one of the many trips to New York City that he chauffeured us around when we visited in July, he said the property at the Elizabeth Street in China Town is not to be sold any time soon. The income from the property shall be accumulated for his grand children’s education. As if they would need it!

Andrew departed so unexpectedly and suddenly a peaceful and happy man. He had no enemy, real or imaginary. His heart filled with joy and love to all around him. He did not allow unnecessary pain and suffering or degrading quality of life on himself and hence spared his family additional grief and hardship. Perhaps that was his last wish

Andrew Chan, a first generation American, a successful entrepreneur, a compassionate villager, a dedicated family man, a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, a son of Hakka. We love you, Andrew, and we shall miss you dearly.

Thank you.