It's been one year since mom passed. Sometimes, it's hard to believe that she's physically gone, but I know that she lives on through her legacy.

Our parents taught us the importance of family, hard work, sacrifice, community, and giving. They also showed us that you can live your dreams even if you start with very modest beginnings. I will always be grateful for these gifts and appreciative of the opportunities that our mom and dad gave us. Mom told me that I would better appreciate what I have if I have to work for it. She was right.

Mom and dad loved their garden. They had beautiful flowers and fruit trees that we all enjoyed. On this 1 year anniversary, Jim, Jordan and I are creating a new flower garden in our yard. We're starting with about 20 roses and 18 dahlias. Perhaps, they'll see the garden from where they are.

I was commissioned to create a video portrait of Mrs. Siu, and had the pleasure of spending a wonderful day with her, in her home and in her garden. It was a privilege for me. A remarkable person, and a beautiful family.

I remember Baw Baw being stern when I was very little but I eventually came to know her as a fun and funny person. She has taught me a lot I will miss her. Most of all she imparted upon me her bravery.

Farewell Baw Baw, Love Jordan.

Baw-Baw (as I will always know her) welcomed me into the family from day 1. She never asked anything of me except one thing: take care of her daughter and grandson, which I've tried my best to do. She never seemed to worry about herself, only that everyone else in the family was happy. Most of all I'll never forget that instant smile anytime a camera was pointed in her direction.

One word: Go-getter! Betty was a go-getter. Whatever she put her mind to, she got it done. I got to know Betty more intimately in the latter years of her life although our families have known each other since the 60's. We called her "Baw-Baw" (as others did) from my generation. She was a loyal friend, a devoted wife, mother and doting grandmother. Betty was full of energy, wisdom, practical advice and a huge heart. She and my mom spoke on an almost daily basis. They were there for each other through some of life's most challenging times. Our conversations in the past few years went well into the night. She gave me insight to the struggles of life for the generation before sharing stories of sacrifice and courage bridging two countries east to west, stories of friendships forged through common experiences of a new life in a new country and the fears, hopes and dreams that came to fruition. Success is a life well lived. Betty lived a successful life. She was someone her friends and family could lean on. She'd often say "All I want is my family to be happy. That is all I can ask." She felt blessed, always was positive, most of all I will remember her love for all within her circle of friendship and her CAN DO spirit! Betty, I'll miss you but you'll forever be in my heart. Affectionately, Diana

Mrs. Siu: We will miss you at parties where you always sat smiling as you watched the kids play. Thank you for all your kind words and shared wisdom.

Mrs. Siu - I was always so happy to see you at parties I went to at Uncle Art and Auntie Donna’s house. Not only because of your amazing fried chicken but because I had also secretly considered you as an extended grandma. Having lost my grandparents at a young age, you always gave me the warm caring feeling that I so longly missed from mine. I loved how you always asked how I was doing in school, at work and sharing how you were proud at seeing my sister and I grow throughout the years. I will miss your tight hugs, getting your recipes and cooking tips, and your infectious laughter that I could always hear from any room. We are blessed to have known you for so long. ❤️

While I didn't know Betty, I know Loretta. Based on the beautiful tributes here and the story of her life, I see those same qualities in Loretta. My sympathies to the family.

You will be missed...You left this world in better condition then when you arrived...we can see this by your accomplishments and the family you brought into this world...

We were nobody when we moved from Japan - no family and no friends here. She and her family took us under the wing. We are forever grateful to her kindness and will truly miss her voice, hug, and unfiltered opinions.

The Kanai Family

My memory of Mrs. Siu was a woman who had impeccable timing in all her life ventures. She knew when to listen and when to offer advice; she accepted other peoples' fragilities and never judged; she loved with all her heart with passion and showed compassion to those who were in need; and most of all, she was a friend to the many different generations. Mrs. Siu was a take-charge person and always ensured everything was in order by providing comfort, enjoyment and loads of food to all. The knowledge that she has proceeded us is reassuring, because when we meet again, she will ensure the road will be paved to a perfect path for us to journey onto. I will miss her, but knowing she is in a better place gives me solace.

Mrs. Siu,

You were always my special friend and mentor.

With love and affection,
Anne

How does one pay tribute to a life long friend & gift like Betty Siu? 

We may carry on with Betty’s defined life examples of perseverance, sacrifice, inspiration, kindness, selflessness and fortitude.
Betty lived her life with purpose and direction, setting those specific examples so that future generations also have aspirations to follow.

Knowing Betty is like winning the Lottery. What you gain in knowing her is immeasurable in value. Betty embraces friendship and family as the foundation of her natural soul. She speaks from her heart and shares her knowledge willingly without reservations because she genuinely cared.

Not long ago, I asked her, “How do you want others to remember you?”
Her pensive response, “I’m like an Umbrella,.. giving care to those that need help.”
Such perfect example- Similar to how an umbrella protects us from the harsh rain, Betty shelters those in need under her canopy of ‘care and love.’ This was her gift to others to remain steadfast and personable. She possessed a heart of gold, even if you happen to spend just a few moments with her, you walked away feeling valued regardless of your circumstances.

To the Betty Siu Family,.. A Mom’s Love is like no other.
Your mom even in her advanced age had the special gift to be childlike as she believed in ‘miracles’ that can happen in life. She’s my ideal of a Superhero & bravest woman I’ve ever known considering her humble beginnings and living by example to inspire others through life accomplishments.

Thank you for this opportunity to share,
Take good care-
Jeanne Pong

Missing Betty! 
What I truly loved about Betty were the many stories she had to tell and how animated she became while telling them. 
My favorite, which she told me often, had to do with her gifts of jade. According to Betty you did not give a person a piece of jade because it was pretty, you gave a gift of jade to those you wanted to have be protected.
She claimed that while wearing jade you were protected from falls, blows, hurts of any kind. I’m a believer.
I treasured her stories and will remember her fondly.
My sincere condolences to her large and loving family.

She’ll be forever missed.

Baw Baw welcomed me to the Siu family with open arms. She was sharp and fiercely loving. I'm glad she was able to meet and spend a little time with her third great grandchild.

Mom gave me her heart. I'm so grateful that I was able to spend the last month with her.