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JOSEPH YU SUN YUEN  Obituary pic JOSEPH YU SUN YUEN  Obituary pic

JOSEPH YU SUN YUEN

Born: Jun 04, 1942

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JOSEPH YU SUN YUEN With a mixture of emotions we announce the passing of Joseph Yuen Yu Sun, loving husband, proud father and joyful grandfather. Family meant a great deal to Joe. He leaves behind his wife Carolynne, his four children, Jeremie, Malinda, Jenna and Matthew, sons-in-law Richard Van Dorp and Andre Jastrzebski, daughter-not-in-law Shauna Alcorn and two precious granddaughters Elizabeth and Alice, who made his last three years among the happiest he had lived and about whom he delighted in telling stories. He also leaves his Godchildren Godfrey Tong, Nicole Grondin, Eileen Tiamzon, Scott Redekopp, Delenn Boulet and adopted Goddaughter Danielle Grondin. They all held special places in his heart. He is also survived by four brothers and one sister and their spouses, children and grandchildren and his in-laws and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, Chack Kim and Loretta Yuen, his brother Robert and his unborn children named Robin and Christian. Prayers will be held at St. Timothy's Catholic Church at 135 John Forsythe Road in Winnipeg on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Glen Eden Funeral Home will follow in the afternoon. Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111
Publish Date: Dec 15, 2014

JOSEPH YU SUN YUEN With a mixture of emotions we announce the passing of Joseph Yuen Yu Sun, loving husband, proud father and joyful grandfather. Family meant a great deal to Joe. He leaves behind his wife Carolynne, his four children Jeremie, Malinda, Jenna and Matthew, sons-in-law Richard Van Dorp and Andre Jastrzebski, daughter-not-in-law Shauna Alcorn and two precious granddaughters, Elizabeth and Alice, who made his last three years among the happiest he had lived and about whom he delighted in telling stories. He also leaves his godchildren Godfrey Tong, Nicole Grondin, Eileen Tiamzon, Scott Redekopp, Delenn Boulet and adopted goddaughter Danielle Grondin. They all held special places in his heart. He is also survived by four brothers and one sister and their spouses, children and grandchildren and his in-laws and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, Chack Kim and Loretta Yuen, his brother Robert and his unborn children named Robin and Christian. Joe was born June 4, 1942. He had once thought he was born in Hong Kong, but was actually born in Shanghai, China - a fact that he did not discover until 1982. Somewhat of an adventurous soul, he headed to Montreal for school in 1963. He never made it. He decided to save $75 on airfare and landed in Winnipeg instead! He became a proud Canadian in 1973. He attended the Universities of Manitoba and Winnipeg, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1969 and a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 1972. And a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1976. He has organized a Class of '72 Pharmacy reunion every five years since 1977. He practised as a pharmacist for many years in Winnipeg and Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. He served on the board of the Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association for eight years. He achieved the A. H. Robbins Bowl of Hygeia in 1987 for his contributions to the profession and the community. You may not have known him personally, but if you have lived in Winnipeg, doubtless he has touched your life in some way. He felt it was of the utmost importance to give back to the community he so loved. He did so in every way he could and it gave him great joy to do so. He served his beloved City of Winnipeg as City Councillor from 1989 through 1992 and worked hard to make this city better for all. He was a tireless volunteer. He worked for many years with Folklorama serving as President of The Folk Arts Council in 1989 and working for many years with the Chinese Pavilion. He worked to build the Winnipeg Chinese community in so many ways, including helping to establish the Winnipeg Chinese Community Centre, the Chinese Pagoda at Kings Park and the Chinese Garden at Glen Eden. He was President of Dragon and Lion Dance International Canada, bringing world-class Chinese Lion and Dragon dance and competition to the city. He was very proud to share his culture with others. He was a Grand Knight of several councils of the Knights of Columbus. He volunteered in many capacities with each of the churches he attended over the years, most recently St. Timothy's. Notably, he organized the second largest independent blood donor clinic in the province. He loved singing in the choir and helping to organize the annual musical production. He volunteered with Boy Scouts of Canada Manitoba Branch, and was instrumental in working with Canada Post to create a stamp to celebrate the Jubilee Celebration of the Boy Scouts of Canada. He participated in the annual Ride, Stride and Glide event for the Kidney Foundation despite his increasing physical limitations. He was a top fundraiser for nearly every year of his participation. He received the Canada 125 Award in 1992, and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013 amongst many, many other awards, for his volunteer efforts to benefit our community. Joe found joy travelling and sharing food with family and friends. He loved Bruce Lee and James Bond movies and collecting flags. No flag was more beloved than the Canadian flag. He loved Christmas with his family and will be sorely missed this holiday season and always. The family would like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at the Health Sciences Centre GA4 ward for their care, kindness and humanity during such a difficult time. Prayers will be held at St. Timothy's Catholic Church at 135 John Forsythe Road in Winnipeg at 10:00 a.m. followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Glen Eden Funeral Home will follow in the afternoon. In lieu of flowers, the family asks his friends to make one final donation in honour of Joe to the Manitoba branch of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Family and friends may sign a Book of Condolence at www.glenedenmemorial.ca Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111
Publish Date: Dec 13, 2014

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 15, 2014

Condolences & Memories (31 entries)

  • Carolynne, I was saddened to read of Joe's passing in today's paper in the "people we have lost" article. My heartfelt sympathies are with you. - Posted by: Teri Curle (Co-worker of Carolynne's at Lewiscraft) on: Jan 03, 2015

  • It was the early '70s when I got to know Joe during spare hours at the University Centre. After leaving the country to work and travel abroad, Joe occasionally crossed my mind when I remembered my time at the U of M. He was always an interesting person to talk to and I enjoyed his quick wit. He left an impression on me that I haven't forgotten in spite of the years and the distance between us. My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Annette Schaible (former fellow student ) on: Jan 03, 2015

  • My heartfelt condolences to Carolynne and his family. When I think of Joe, I smile. I think of his positive and gentle nature, and his enduring dedication both to those close to him and humanity in general. Thank you Joe, for our Pharmacy reunions. I never dreamed I would do karaoke. If I hadn't run into Joe one particular day, I never would have seen my first spectacular Dragon Dance. Thank you, Joe, for the special memories. - Posted by: Frances Edye (Pharmacy Classmate) on: Dec 23, 2014

  • Joe was known to us as a wonderful and caring neighbour. We also knew him in connection with his association with the Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association and when he served as a city councillor. Deepest sympathies to Carolynne and family. - Posted by: Charles and Sylvia Phelan (Neighbours) on: Dec 17, 2014

  • Carolynne, Our condolences go out to you and your entire family. We will certainly miss his words of wisdom, his kindness, his smile, and that laugh and chuckle that you know had to be Joe (even half way across a golf course). We pray for you and your family through these times of emotional roller. That you will find peace and comfort in the Lord. - Posted by: Ron & Carol Henry (Friends) on: Dec 17, 2014

  • Carolynne my sympathies to you and your children. I often thought about Joseph (Joe )since our days at the University of Saskatchewan, when we took our Hospital and Health Care Administration course. May the peace of the Lord be with you. Kathy Murdoch - Posted by: Kathy (Deibert) Murdoch (U. of Saskatchewan Alumni) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • Joe served on City Council during the time I served as Chief Of Police and I also knew Joe and Caroline as we served on the Board of the Chinese Cultural Centre. I considered both he and Caroline as good friends. My sincere condolences to Caroline and the family. - Posted by: Herb Stephen (friend) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • Our deepest condolences to Carolynne and family. So sad to hear the news of Joe's passing. Our children knew each other, went to the same schools. Joe was a wonderful man, may he rest in peace. Take care from the Flemings. - Posted by: Dennis,Marianne,Wayne,David,Adam Fleming (neighbor/friends) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • Carolynne and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Joe was a wonderful kind husband, father and friend. Remember all the good times, cherish them and they will carry you through. I will not be there to share in the Celebration of Joe's life as I am away for the winter. - Posted by: Sue Heim (Acquaintence) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • My utmost condolences to the Yuen family. I had the pleasure of working with Joe as the graphic designer for DALDIC. He was a great man who had so much passion in everything he did. My thoughts are with him and your family. - Posted by: Cathleen Hues (Friend) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • My sincere condolences to Mrs. Yuen and family. May God’s grace and strength be with you. - Posted by: Lisa Tam-Eng (Scouting friends) on: Dec 16, 2014

  • My condolences to the family. Great guy. - Posted by: Frank rizzuto (Barber and friend ) on: Dec 15, 2014

  • While I don't really know him personally, I did sometimes meet him in community events. I am proud of his involvement in the community. Thank you. Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Choi Shing Yuen (member of chinese community) on: Dec 15, 2014

  • HE WAS A MAN OF HONOR. - Posted by: RIVAN KENNETH HALPRIN (ADVISER) on: Dec 15, 2014

  • Carolynne, I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. My deepest sympathy to you & your family. Hugs, Renee (Crymble) Butchart - Posted by: Renee Butchart (friend of Carolynne's from school days) on: Dec 15, 2014

  • Dear Caroline, Our thoughts are with you and your family, and we know that you will miss Joseph greatly. Joseph will always be among our very best memories of Winnipeg. He was a soft spoken, kind hearted person, providing leadership in quiet, diplomatic ways by personal example. I still remember his tireless efforts on many issues -- not only the well being of the Chinese community but also his commitment to public service and social justice matters. His interest in government and political affairs was deep and sincere, well informed, and sometimes passionate. Our Winnipeg homes were close by, and I still recall the flying of the giant Canadian flag on your house on each and every Canada Day. Joseph, sweet, gentle person. Be at peace. You were loved, and you touched so many lives. - Posted by: Derek and Mary Hum (Friends) on: Dec 15, 2014

  • To Mrs. Yuen, Jeremie, Malinda, Jenna and Matthew, Please accept my condolences on this terrible loss. I was fortunate enough to have an opportunity to have a nice conversation with Mr. Yuen right before Halloween. He was in great spirits and was excited to see Elizabeth and Alice in Calgary. He was also telling me all about the upcoming event for the Kidney Foundation. Please let me know if there is anything I can do. Malinda Lee - Posted by: Malinda Lee () on: Dec 15, 2014

  • Joe was a City Councillor because he loved our City and passionately believed he could make Winnipeg even better. Being a City Councillor back then was an honour, it really did not pay very well so those of us who were there served because we cared. Joe loved his family and his community, he will be greatly missed. Peter Kaufmann. - Posted by: Peter Kaufmann (Fellow City Councillor 1989-1992) on: Dec 14, 2014

  • I really enjoyed reading Joe's life story - truly an inspiration. I am grateful for Joe's presence in my parents' life and his friendship with my dad. He was always such a happy person and you could tell he enjoyed life and touched many lives. All my love and thoughts to the family during what I know is a difficult time. Peace. - Posted by: Cheryl, David and Danica Franklin (Cheryl is Judy Wagner's daughter and friend of the family) on: Dec 14, 2014

  • I will always remember Joe's warm and loving smile, his tender heart and his respect for all, even for those with whom he may have disagreed on a policy matter. He never held a personal grudge. As a member of the WIN team, we had many defeats on council. He never let any of it effect his demeanour or his loving spirit. I will miss him. - Posted by: Lillian Thomas (City Council colleague) on: Dec 14, 2014

  • I cannot believe I will not see you again! - Posted by: Tommie Au 柯 (Friend since 1968) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Joseph was an important part of the Council of 1989-92 and participated passionately in the debates of those years. His contributions to his chosen City were important and I know he was proud of his opportunities to serve and contribute. - Posted by: George Fraser (Former Councillor - City of Winnipeg ) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • As friend and classmate in Pharmacy school I am saddened by his sudden passing. We enjoyed good times during and after class with our mutual friend Randy Wong. Unfortunately I spent almost all my professional career in B.C. but was able to attend a couple of the class re-unions he helped organize. My deepest sympathy to Carolyne and his family. Douglas Dare - Posted by: douglas dare (classmate) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Sincere condolences Carolynne and family. Thank you for all you and Joseph have done for our class and the community. - Posted by: Claudia (class of '72) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • To Joseph's family and all of his friends and fellow knight, i would like to acknowledge Joseph Yuen as caring and compassionate man. I have many fond memories of Joseph when we worked along side in the numerous pancake breakfasts for the St. Tim's KC. Rest in peace fellow knight Vivat Jesus - Posted by: tony rodrigues (Fellow Knight of Columbus ) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • I met Joe during the time I worked at the Kidney Foundation. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. He was always so cheerful and friendly - plus such a committed volunteer - not letting his physical challenges stop him. An inspiration to many. - Posted by: Sharon Epp () on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Our sincere condolences are sent to you and all of your family. We will always remember Joe as a kind and well respected man. Take care. - Posted by: Mel and Vi Compton () on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Dear Yuen Family, our hearts go out to you at this most heartbreaking time. Your husband, father was a genuine and true human being. He was a man of class and integrity. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Carol and Bill Noyes (Family friends) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Joe we always knew you as a gentle and quiet soul who gave so much of yourself to your community and church. We were amazed at all you accomplished in your life and all the energy you had for various associations and charitable causes. May you rest in peace - Posted by: Dan & Lorraine (Friends) on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Please note: Joseph passed on December 11th, 2014 Funeral services will be held on Tuesday December 16th. - Posted by: Andre Jastrzebski () on: Dec 13, 2014

  • Very sorry to read about the announcement. My condolences to the family, I shared many memories with Joe from the Folklorama days and his Civic election campaign. He will be missed by many. - Posted by: Otto So (friend) on: Dec 13, 2014

Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery

Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery

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