I remember- one fine day in SG, in the mid-1960s, Kai introduced me to his mother whom I addressed as 'Auntie Kwee', inkeeping with the local tradition of respectfully addressing elders as uncles and aunties. Unbeknownst to me then, Kai's unpretentious introduction of 'This is my mother', was the start of a relationship that spanned over 5 decades, which grew closer as the years passed by. While Auntie Kwee's presence in SG was punctuated by her absence, I had fortunate opportunities to travel and visit her in Medan and Brastagi, Sumatra, and even in Burlington ON. I recall getting the opportunity for my first taste of a Dutch pastry, a product of her baking gift, on one of those trips. During those visits, her warm hospitality and caring kindness left an indelible imprint in my heart. Visiting her in later years in Hyland Pl, N Surrey, I can sense that my relationship with Auntie Kwee, has quietly evolved to approach extended family status. During my visits, the privileges of sheltering under the same roof, breaking bread together over a meal in her home, even handing me the keys to her beloved VW Golf to allow me run errands in YVR, are happy memories that I am thankful for and will fondly remember. I pray that Auntie Kwee's wise words of encouragement and hope that was offered to each of us along the way, will give us strength and peace, as we journey onward with her spirit of love in our hearts. And my prayers for Auntie Kwee's journey to dwell in the house of the Lord, together with Uncle Kwee and Bob. Pau Chern Seow.
"..He leads me beside still waters; He restores my soul.
..Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,.." Psalm23 2,6.