Cecilia Gee Née Chan

Cecilia passed away suddenly on September 30, 2023, after a brief illness, surrounded by family members in Ottawa. She had recently celebrated her 94th Harvest Moon birthday. Cecilia was loved and greatly cherished by her family and friends. Her presence will be missed in our lives.

Cecilia was born in HK to Chan Ki Cho and Tsang Wai Lan. She was the second oldest in a family of 11 children. As the eldest daughter, she took her role seriously as Big Sister, always watching out for her siblings and cousins. She loved being active, enjoying swimming, tennis and was the captain of her basketball team in school. Losing a sibling motivated Cecilia to pursue a degree in nursing. She proudly achieved her RN and midwifery certification, starting her career at the Kowloon Hospital and the Queen Mary Hospital, HK.

Cecilia married Roy Wing Choi Gee, moved to Vancouver, BC, Canada and eventually moved East to settle in Ottawa. Life was busy with daughter, Selene, and sons Norman and Daniel. Roy worked as a Chemical Engineer in the federal government while Cecilia was actively involved with her family and community. She sponsored many of her siblings and was instrumental in helping them come to study and work in Canada.

Cecilia had a passion for nursing, studying again to pass exams for certification in Canada. She worked part time at the General Hospital (now Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital), then at The Ottawa Hospital Main Campus, 7 East, retiring in 1994.

Cecilia had a caring, generous heart. She opened her home to many of her family and friends. She loved music, travelling, going on vacations within North America and Europe. In her retirement, Cecilia enjoyed swimming, walking and family time with her many grandchildren, and extended family.

She is survived by her children Selene (Richard), Norman, Daniel (Laura) and  grandchildren Chelsea, Erica, Bryan, Samantha, Vanessa, Victoria, Emma and Evelyn, her siblings Pauline Shiu Chun (late Shui Kan),  Mario Yu Kai (Marilyn), Ching Kai (Mabel), John Shun Kai (Kitty Yim Bing), Peter Sing Kai (Dionisia), May Mei Chun (Roger Shek Ho) and many nieces and nephews, her sister-in-laws Amy, Anne, Alyce (Bill), Lila.

Predeceased by spouse Roy Wing Choi, parents Ki Cho, Wai Lan, siblings Ho Kai, Wing Kai, King Kai, Jenny Kit Chun, and many dear brother and sister-in-laws.

A private family farewell was held October 5, 2023, followed by cremation. Interment and A Celebration of Life will be held next year at Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa. Details TBD.

The family appreciates the care and support given by Dr. Michael Malek and staff, her PSWs, Emergent Care staff at The General Campus and the staff at Beechwood Cemetery.

Cecilia’s family thank everyone for their sympathy and condolences. In lieu of flowers, they ask that a donation be made to the Ottawa Hospital Foundation in memory of Cecilia Gee, RN, 7 East The Ottawa General Hospital.