Royal Cantonese’s beloved owner, Doreen Lew, needs our urgent help after the sudden loss of her husband and business partner.

John Lew passed away suddenly last week, leaving behind his beloved wife and business partner, Doreen Lew, their two sons, and a heartbroken community.

For nearly 50 years, John and Doreen worked side by side to build Royal Cantonese, a family restaurant established in 1975. It was never just a restaurant—it was a second home. Through long hours, personal sacrifice, and deep care for their customers, they created a place where regulars felt like family and newcomers were welcomed like old friends.

John’s sudden passing was unexpected and deeply devastating.

As Doreen grieves the loss of her husband, she is now confronting overwhelming and immediate financial realities. With John gone, she must close and sell the restaurant far sooner than planned—bringing decades of work to an abrupt and painful transition.

Right now, Doreen is facing:

Expenses for final arrangements

Outstanding business and vendor obligations

Payroll and employee transition costs

Closure-related expenses

Sudden loss of household and business income

We are urgently raising $70,000 to help stabilize Doreen and her family during this critical transition.

This support is needed to cover immediate final arrangement costs, essential business and payroll obligations, and basic living expenses while Doreen works to close and sell the restaurant. Funds will be used immediately to meet these urgent needs.

John and Doreen spent their lives giving—to their family, their customers, and this community. Now, we have the opportunity to give back, honor John’s legacy, and stand beside Doreen when she needs it most.

Please donate if you are able. If you cannot give, sharing this page makes a meaningful difference. Every contribution—no matter the amount—helps right now.

Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and continued support. Doreen is deeply grateful for any and all support.

To get started, a long-time customer and dear friend will match the first $5,000 raised. Again, any amount matters!

Thank you for caring and supporting Doreen and her family.