We Remember
SEN, Steven Lau-King
May 4, 1938 — March 3, 2024
Steve Lau King Sen, a charismatic husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024, in Kelowna, BC, at the meaningful age of 85.
Steve was born on May 4, 1938, in his hometown of Guangzhou, China. Granted Canadian immigration status in 1969, Steve flew across the ocean to establish his life in Canada, later to be joined with his close mother, Mi Lo. Proficient at writing and as an avid reader, Steve studied Mechanical Engineering Technology at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Toronto in the 1970s, then moved to Calgary, Alberta and became an Apprentice Mechanic through SAIT Polytechnic.
Steve worked at Standen’s Limited as an apprentice motor mechanic in 1972, and at Swift Feeds as a maintenance repair man in 1980. In Calgary, he met his wife Elaine and got married on September 19, 1973, and started his family life. Steve became an official citizen of Canada on April 9, 1981, and settled to an acreage in Delacour, a rural area outside of Calgary, in 1991.
Steve was drawn to working on vehicles, a talent he cultivated during his career as a mechanic for the City of Calgary’s Transit CTrain department, where he later excelled as middle-management. Steve also held an impressive personal collection of cars and unique vehicles throughout his lifetime. He found interest in many other activities, from tending to his fruit trees & vegetable garden, cooking, and raising chickens and rabbits. He also enjoyed camping and fishing among Alberta waters in his famous half-canoe.
In pursuit of his entrepreneurial dreams and with his hard work ethic, Steve also embarked on the journey of owning his own mechanic shop in Calgary, aptly named Kings Auto Repair. After retiring from his role at Calgary Transit in 1999, Steve’s entrepreneurial spirit continued brightly. He moved to the province of British Columbia and delved into business and property ownership, through the Hansel & Gretel Motel in Penticton, the Imperial Banquet Restaurant in Kelowna, and other various ventures throughout the Okanagan Valley.
Steve’s activeness and zest for life extended beyond the borders of his adopted homeland, as he frequently travelled between Canada and his cherished hometown in China, bridging cultures.
A man of uniqueness and of many different hats, Steve left an impression on many, his vibrant and talkative personality drawing people towards him wherever he went. His ever-positive outlook, coupled with his fiery determination and quest for knowledge, left a mark on all who had the opportunity to cross paths with him.
Steve spent his later years at the Kelowna David Lloyd Jones nursing home with his wife, leaving a fond impression on the staff members there. In addition to his passion for business and adventure, Steve always held a special place in his heart for feline companions, finding solace and companionship in the gentle presence of cats. There he became close companions with Henry, the resident cat of the nursing home. The nurses fondly described Steve as being ‘his [Henry’s] human’.
Steve is survived by his wife of 50 years, Elaine Sen. He is also survived by his four children Joyce, Alex, Roselynn, and Alan; and his grandchildren Sophia (Chris), Victoria, Amelia, and Adam. Although he may have departed this world, Steve’s essence lives on in the hearts and minds of those who were touched by his energy and enthusiasm for life.
As we bid farewell to Steve Sen, may we find comfort in the memories we shared and the legacy he leaves behind. Rest in peace, Steve, knowing that your spirited light and determination will continue to shine eternally.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local SPCA, the Heart & Stoke Foundation, or the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
A Funeral Service will be held on THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME: 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.
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Service
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM
Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME
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Service Details
The service for SEN, Steven Lau-King is scheduled for THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.