It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Kwong, who passed away peacefully in the care of her children in Vancouver, BC on April 28 2017.
Born Mary Yaeko Mochizuki on August 4 1929. Mary was raised in Vancouver's Japan town neighbourhood where her family owned and operated a hotel and confectionary store. In 1942 the Mochizuki family were interned in McGillvary Falls . After the war, the family moved to Lillooet where Mary met Johnny Kwong and they eventually married. The couple moved to Banff and Calgary before permanently settling in John's hometown of Revelstoke in 1954. Mary and John owned and operated 2 restaurants in Revelstoke, Manning’s Restaurant and Chocolates and the Chalet Restaurant. Mary was a tireless and gracious manager and hostess, warmly welcoming all who visited and resided in the mountain community that she loved so much, forming many enduring friendships.
Following John’s death in 1974 she remained in Revelstoke operating the Chalet with her son Ron until her retirement. She then pursued her dreams of golfing, painting, photography, cross country skiing, bowling, karaoke, and travelling. Mary loved to drive and be on the road- to her it was freedom. In her 80’s, Mary would drive with her friends to Calgary for Karaoke gatherings where they would sing. She was an enthusiastic participant of Revelstoke’s cultural community and made regular trips to Vancouver to partake in numerous events and concerts. Mary will forever be remembered for her warmth, love, sincerity and her love of life, her iconic sense of style, big round glasses, and a camera around her neck. She was an inspiration to us all and we will miss her dearly.
She is survived by her children, Ron, Debbie, Tessie (John). Grandchildren, Kita (Roderick), Miya (Sal), Marcus (Kathleen), great grandchildren Kieran and Kamilia, sisters Betty, Irene (Tosh), and brother Vic (Gin), nephews, Timothy and Jason, niece, Ruth, brother-in-law Jimmy Kwong and sister-in law, Mary, and numerous nieces and nephews on the Kwong side. Mary was predeceased by her brother George (Anne).
We will celebrate Mary’s life in Vancouver on June 15 and in Revelstoke on June 18. Further details will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation or Canadian Red Cross B.C. & Yukon.