Kam Chiu Lee, co-founder of Fresh Direct Produce Ltd., Vancouver, British Columbia, has died.
Lee died March 24 after a short battle with cancer; he was 65.
Lee, Davis Yung and Albert Lum established Fresh Direct in 2003, according to a statement from the company, which described him as having “an incredible passion for produce and an immense work ethic,” being the first to arrive and last to leave work every day.
To many Fresh Direct staff, he was “Uncle Chiu” or “Chiu gor” (big brother), according to the statement.
“He greeted everyone (drivers, customers, staff, visitors) with a big smile on his face, and he loved everyone; he was much loved and respected in return,” according to the statement.
Lee passed on his values of a strong work ethic and resilience, according to the Fresh Direct statement.
“Our family and community will greatly miss his wisdom, caring, humor and heart,” according the statement.
Survivors include his wife, Irene, and sons Alan and Raymond.
The funeral service is April 2 in Vancouver, but limited to family members because of COVID-19 restrictions.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the Vancouver General Hospital & University of British Columbia Hospital Foundation.
