Choy Yuen Lou

CHOY YUEN LOU was born in the Sun Wei area of Canton, China. She was the fifth of eleven children born to her parents, Ying Heung Lee and Shee Hom. She often expressed fond memories of growing up on her parents’ coastal farm, working hard and enjoying the fruits of their labor and their access to fresh seafood. In 1947, Choy married Sing Lai Lou, a World War II veteran/U.S. Army Air Corps, and immigrated to the United States. They remained together for nearly 77 years until Sing preceded her in eternal rest in January 2024.

Choy was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. In her early years in the United States, she packed tomatoes in San Clemente and for the family produce company, then later making dim sum at a Chinatown restaurant. But she was mostly an extraordinary homemaker who had the gift of service and hospitality. She would often entertain family and friends, cooking fantastic meals. She knew how to celebrate special occasions so the people in her life knew they were loved. Her culinary skills were unrivaled; everything she made was delicious, especially fried rice, fried chicken, braised duck, and many various regional Chinese egg, meat, vegetable and seafood dishes. It spoiled people. No one comes close to her standard for these dishes.

She enjoyed horse racing. It was her shared recreation with her husband, who introduced her to the activity. It is commonly believed that her horse handicapping skills exceeded her husband’s. Choy also enjoyed spending time with her family. Nothing gave her greater joy than seeing her children, grandchildren, and their respective families living in harmony with one another. Listening and watching Chinese opera on YouTube was also one of her favorite pastimes. 

Choy was hardworking and modest in speech and dress. She was thoughtful and chose her words carefully. Choy leaves a legacy of service, kindness, sacrifice, loyalty, and doing right. Her words were wise when she spoke, and she gave instructions with kindness. She carefully watched everything in her household and suffered nothing from laziness. She embraced those around her with love, comfort and compassion. Her husband, children, grandchildren, family and friends were blessed to have her in their lives.

Choy is survived by her children May (Son, previously departed) Dao, Sharon (Leslie) Tso, Robert (Candace) Lou, and Rita (Robert) Goulette; her grandchildren Laura (Vinh Vu) Dao, Catherine Dao, Christopher (Caitlin) Lou, and Caitlyn Lou; and many extended family members and friends.