Last Chinese Canadian WWII Veteran Dies; Cold War Heroes Honored

UPDATE: The last surviving Chinese Canadian soldier from World War II, Gordie Quan, passed away in Victoria last month at the age of 99. His legacy was honored during the 101st annual Remembrance Day service in Vancouver’s Chinatown on November 11, 2025, where other Cold War veterans gathered to pay tribute.

Despite the loss of Quan, several surviving veterans, including Alfred Woo, 78, attended the poignant ceremony at the Chinatown Memorial Monument. “I’m grateful to Gordie Quan and other Asian veterans for showing me that the military was open to me,” said Woo, who served for 22 years as a part-time artillery soldier during the Cold War.

The service included wreath-laying by politicians from Ottawa, B.C., and Vancouver, reflecting on the contributions of Chinese Canadians who served in the military. The memorial features a bronze figure representing the estimated 600 Chinese Canadians who volunteered in World War II, despite being denied the right to vote at the time, according to the Veterans Affairs Department.

Woo expressed pride in his service, noting he was prepared to be mobilized but “fortunately” never received the call. “I like to say I served in the most dangerous war that was never fought,” he added.

The ceremony took place after Vancouver’s main service at the memorial cenotaph at Victory Square, where hundreds gathered to honor all veterans. This year’s ceremony featured a jumbo screen that broadcast the service to attendees across the park, and attendees could also access the broadcast via a QR code.

Among those commemorating the day was Ted Hawthorne, 79, a Cold War veteran who marched with the B.C. Regiment. “We’re citizen soldiers,” he remarked, highlighting the dual roles many veterans play in civilian life while remaining ready for military service.

Hawthorne, who also practiced law while serving, continues to provide legal assistance to veterans, embodying the spirit of service that defines these individuals. “I learned a lot about leadership,” he said, stressing the importance of military service in shaping young lives.

With the passing of the last WWII veteran, the ceremony served as a crucial reminder of the sacrifices made by Chinese Canadians in military history. The emotional gathering honored their contributions while inspiring the next generation of soldiers.

As the nation reflects on the sacrifices of its veterans, events like this remind us of the importance of honoring those who served and the ongoing contributions of those still active today. The legacy of soldiers like Gordie Quan will continue to inspire future generations to serve their country.