My Dad's Legacy: A Celebration of Life

On May 18, 2022, my dad, Ban Phuc Hoang, was alone in his store when his life was violently taken away from us. For over 30 years, my dad ran a business in Chinatown selling karaoke systems, audio accessories, and videos. He was the first person to bring karaoke to Edmonton and supplied stores all over Canada. He loved my mother and me unconditionally. Outside of our family, his store was his pride and joy.

 

My father came from humble beginnings and made his way to Canada from a refugee camp. I have so many things to thank him for, like taking care of my mother and me, sponsoring our extended family to Canada, and being a business community leader in Chinatown. Everyone knew my father, and he knew everyone. Now everyone knows he's gone. I would like people to remember him and celebrate his life and legacy.

 

To honour my father's legacy, my mom and I will donate ¾ of the proceeds to organize an annual talent show and karaoke competition at the Chinatown Night Market. I remember how he used to participate in the night market, and it gave us some hope in Chinatown. I grew up with my dad’s store. I even grew up seeing Chinatown in its prime, full of life and bustling streets. Now, it’s just lifeless. I hope this annual event can help bring vibrancy back into Chinatown and be a fun event for everyone. The remaining proceeds will be used for my university studies. I am studying to be a veterinarian, and I have several years of studies left.

 

I hope you will join me in supporting my father's legacy by donating whatever you can, re-sharing this link and sharing your fondest memories of him below. We cannot thank you enough for your support.

 

With Love,

 

Jolie Hoang and Family