Robert MAH

MAH, Robert, Sr.
December 3, 1920 – April 20, 2018
Mah Gim Ming (Bob) was born in Vancouver, B.C. Bob spent his early childhood in Bai Sha Toi Shan, Guangdong, China. In 1935, Bob returned to Vancouver and eventually made Alberta his home in 1938. Bob worked all over Alberta taking any job available, working hard and saving money whenever he could. He always said that the Dirty Thirties were hard times and often shared stories of the troubles and tribulations he endured.
In the 1940's and 1950's Bob was the owner and operator of several Edmonton businesses including: a bicycle repair shop, International Distributers and Coney Island Café. He also owned and operated juke boxes and pin ball machines throughout Central Alberta. Up until his retirement in 1984, Bob worked in the hospitality industry: Beaver Lunch, The King Edward Hotel, the Sunrise, the Beachcomber, Northlands and the Blue Sky.
Bob was an extremely strong, determined and independent man. He was a dedicated father and always did his very best to provide for his children. He also volunteered his time to help many new Chinese families settle in the Edmonton area by translating and assisting them in adjusting to Canadian life.
While president of the Chinese Benevolent Association, Bob coached the Chinese Men's volleyball team and led them to the city championship. He also coached the Junior High Boys basketball team. He was passionate about horse racing and with the help of a friend, he obtained his groom license. He loved grooming the Major.
Bob was an avid horseracing fan and when he was not at the track, he could often be found playing a friendly game of mah-jong. One of Bob's favorite summer activities was fishing. He loved salmon fishing in the Strait or dropping a line in one of his favorite lakes. The fall was bird hunting season. Bob spent many hours in the fields with his dogs, hunting ducks and pheasants.
In his later years, the light and joy of Bob's life were his beloved granddaughters and his great-grandchildren. He was more than a devoted grandfather, he was a friend and confidant. He was always generous with his time and his advice was always wise.
He is survived by his son Robert Mah, daughter, Diana Mah (Bob Eslinger), of Calgary, AB; granddaughters Bonnie Mah (Michael Small) and Andrea Lafleche (Jedd), of New Maryland, NB; and great- grandchildren Maya Mah and Nathaniel Lafleche, as well as nieces and nephews in Canada and Hong Kong. Robert was predeceased by his father Mah Wei Foon (founding member of the Mah Society of Canada), his mother Mary Mah (nee Chan), brother George Mah and daughter-in-law Donna Mah. Bob was loved very much and will be deeply missed.
Cremation has taken place and no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made by cheque to the Mah Society of Edmonton (9643 101A Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5H 0C8).