Donnie Dong

September 12, 1931 - September 12, 2023

In Loving Memory ~

Donnie Dong of Vancouver passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 12, 2023, at the age of 92.

Donnie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to his wife Fern of 65 years; his daughter Jenny (Paul); his son David (Margaret); his son Danny (Mimi); and his 5 grandchildren Kelsey, Derek, Matthew, Megan, and Samantha.

Donnie was born in Guangzhou, China, and arrived in Nanaimo, BC, in 1951. Over the years, Donnie became a self-taught and accomplished cook, and he worked in several local Chinese restaurants. In 1958, Donnie married Fern; they were a perfect match.

They moved to Ucluelet in 1965 and opened a restaurant with Jerry and Alfie (Fern's brothers). For 38 years, he worked 350 days of the year for 12-16 hours a day, with only a vacation at Christmas.

The business was so successful that they expanded and built the Peninsula Motor Inn and Restaurant complex across the street. He loved 'shooting the breeze' over coffee with everyone who came into the restaurant and also remembered their favorite dishes!

Donnie retired in 2003 and still enjoyed cooking and watching hockey. He also learned to play mahjong on the computer and tried weekly to predict the winning lottery numbers. The best part of retirement was spending time with family and friends.

Donnie came to Canada for a better life and created a legacy that extends through generations. His children and grandchildren will be eternally grateful for his guidance, courage, and strong work ethic. He had a kind and gentle nature that will be remembered by the many lives he touched.

We miss you. We love you.

We will remember you forever.

A viewing will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home (3789 Royal Oak Avenue, Burnaby, BC) on Friday, September 29, 7:30-9:30 p.m. A formal chapel service will follow on Saturday, September 30, at 1:00 p.m. An outdoor burial service is planned from 2:30-3:45 p.m.

In lieu of flowers and condolence gifts, a donation can be made to the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation in the name of Donnie Dong.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the Dong family at

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries

/burnaby-bc/donnie-dong-11461833