Hyun Jin 'Eugene' Lee

With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the very sudden passing of Hyun Jin 'Eugene' Lee at 63 years young - beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend.

 

His diagnosis of stage 4 small cell lung cancer in February - discovered during the recovery of a hip fracture, was devastating and unexpected. The cancer was extremely aggressive and had already spread throughout his body. His condition declined swiftly over these last four months until he succumbed peacefully to eternal rest on June 22nd, 2022.

 

We hold close the memories of his unwavering strength, utmost dedication to family, joyful disposition, drive to succeed and unbridled generosity. He was a quiet, passionate, curious man who fearlessly led his family after emigrating to Canada in 1988 and starting his own business. He loved music, noodling with the guitars and trumpets from our early years and participating as a tenor in multiple choirs. He also enjoyed an active life - playing golf and tennis often until his injury prevented him from playing the sports he loved so dearly.

 

Some of my most treasured memories of my dad are those spent at our local tennis court. My brother, Nathan and I would diligently rally late into the night to find and better our individual games. Yet, despite our best efforts, we were never able to surpass his uncanny ability to return even our strongest and most well-placed ground strokes. This is who he was: steadfast, patient and always there. He is missed by all who know him, most especially by his wife of 33 years, Hyun-Ock.

 

While western traditions call for flowers or condolence cards to be sent to the bereaved, in Korean culture, it is customary to give a donation to the family, known as jo-uigeum (조의금). These donations will be used for his care, end-of-life celebrations and to support the love of his life, my mom, as she builds a life without her partner. She was my father's primary caregiver, championing hope, laughter and positivity in addition to advocating for his health and recovery in a cold and impersonal healthcare system that only saw him as a terminal palliative case with very little time left. She put her needs aside - checking on him at all hours, day and night, to ensure he never lacked nutrition, comfort or company. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated to give her the gift of time to grieve during this incredibly heartbreaking mourning period.

 

Like many women of her generation, she put her aspirations and career on hold to raise and care for her family. She remains our fiercest and most outspoken cheerleader devoting her life to supporting us while we chase down our dreams and far-flung adventures. Our achievements, character and happiness are but a drop of her life's work.

 

Since many folks have been asking how they can help, please consider donating and sharing while keeping her in your thoughts and prayers.

 

And contact me, Evelyn, if you would like to reach out or hope to provide support in a different way.