In Loving Memory
It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Elsa Chia Li Wah, who left us peacefully at 7:11 am on September 19, 2025, at North Shore Hospice, surrounded by her family and friends, after an eight-month battle with brain cancer. She was 58 years old.
Born on March 18, 1967, in Hong Kong, Elsa lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and devotion to her loved ones. A true fighter, she bravely faced cancer six times over her lifetime—triumphing over breast, lung, and colon cancers five times before her final journey with brain cancer. Her courage and determination inspired all who knew her.
In 1984, Elsa met David at Rio Lindo Academy in California, and together they built a life rooted in love and partnership. They married in 2000 and lived in Hong Kong until 2009, when they returned to Canada to continue building their life together. Over their 25 years of marriage, they shared countless adventures, laughter, and unwavering devotion to one another and their family. Beyond her strength, Elsa had a passion for travelling, always eager to explore the world and create lasting memories. To many, she was a big sister—offering guidance, laughter, and unconditional support. She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the love she shared with all who were fortunate to know her.
Elsa is survived by her loving husband David and her cherished daughter Sarah, her parents, and her siblings Marco and Lisa and their respective families, along with extended family and many dear friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2nd, from 6:00–8:00 pm, and her main memorial service will take place on Friday, October 3rd, from 10:00–11:00 am. Both will be held at First Memorial Funeral Service, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver, BC. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation in Elsa’s memory, through the following link: https://lghfoundation.com/tributes/elsa-wah/
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate medical teams at North Shore Hospice, the BC Cancer Agency, and Lions Gate Hospital, as well as to her longtime oncologist Dr. Sasha Smiljanic and her radiation oncologist Dr. Justin Oh, for their exceptional care and support throughout Elsa’s journey.
Elsa’s strength, adventurous spirit, and boundless love will continue to guide and inspire all those whose lives she touched.
