Person

Law, Dora Yan Tai

• 劉引娣
• 陳劉引娣

• Chan, Dora

1921–2017

LAW Yan Tai (known as Dora Yan Tai Law CHAN after marriage) was born in New Westminster, BC on December 31, 1921.

Her parents really wanted a son, but they had eight daughters and Dora was daughter #7. Her Chinese name was given to her as if to ask for a son next, but that never happened. So, Dora, a bit of a tomboy, stepped up and took on the role of a son.

She worked from a young age alongside her father, Law Soong, at Ying Tai, the family farm, and at their shingle mill, doing men's work. Dora worked long hours and consequently did not marry until she was 30 years old, which was considered rather old at that time.

Despite working long hours, as a young woman, Dora did find some time to join the Daughters of China Club. Dora later became the club’s President. Through events like fashion shows, dinners, and dances, the club group raised money to help the local community and abroad.

On March 27, 1952, Dora married Leslie Shue Hong CHAN. Together they had two children: Lenora Elaine Chan (married name Der); and Paul Gayn-Lan Chan. She went to work at Aero Garments after having her children.

Dora was an excellent cook and was renowned for baking the softest, fluffiest cakes. Her family described her as loving, caring and incredibly thoughtful.

She passed away in Burnaby on September 27, 2017.

Chan, Leslie Shue Hong (1915-2001)

Description supplied by collector/curator