Kwok Fai Tang

With sadness we announce the passing of Kwok Fai Tang (Godfrey) on December 19th, 2017 at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife Lamy, his daughters Janice and Erin, son-in-law Ryan, god- son Steven and his wife Bonnie, grandchildren Erik, Sofia and god-grand daughter Avery, and six sisters and two brothers.

Godfrey grew up in Hong Kong and completed his PhD at the University of Waterloo. He also had a post doctorial designate in Chemistry at Memorial University. Godfrey and his wife moved and settled in Vancouver where he spent the rest of his life.

Godfrey enjoyed a life of learning. He was a ‘jack of all trades’ and had many interesting occupations- from lecturer at university to lab technician to restauranteur to secondary grade school teacher to bus driver (just to name a few). His last occupation before retirement was as a successful realtor.

Throughout his life, Godfrey was very proud of his Chinese heritage and remained connected to his culture. During retirement, he moved to the Vancouver Chinatown area where he developed a strong connection with the community through his volunteer work. He gave regular Chinese walking tours of Chinatown, introducing Chinese culture to the English speaking community. An advocate for seniors, he often translated for Cantonese and Mandarin only speaking seniors. To preserve his community’s rich history, he attended city hall meetings and helped to organize much publicized demonstrations against the gentrification of Vancouver Chinatown.

Godfrey was happiest being active- riding his bike, engaging in lively discussions with others, and playing with his grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent in his name in support of The Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House in Vancouver. You can donate through their website at http://dtesnhouse.ca/

Visitation for family and friends will be held at Glenhaven Memorial Chapel, 1835 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC on Sunday, December 31, 2017 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Cremation at Vancouver Crematorium, 5505 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC. Arrangements entrusted to Glenhaven Memorial Chapel, Vancouver, BC. 604.255.5444.