Fresh Direct Produce co-founder Kam Chiu Lee passes away

April 1, 2020, Vancouver, B.C. – The Fresh Direct Produce family has announced that Kam Chiu Lee, co-founder of the company, passed away peacefully on March 24 after a short battle with cancer.

The company said in a press release that its thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Irene, and their sons, Alan and Raymond.

Lee worked most of his life in the produce industry since the mid-1980s. In 2003, Lee, along with Davis Yung and Albert Lum, established Fresh Direct Produce.

With an incredible passion for produce and an immense work ethic, Lee was the first to arrive every day and often the very last to leave, the company stated. He greeted everyone (drivers, customers, staff, visitors) with a big smile on his face, and he loved everyone.

Many staff affectionately called Lee “Uncle Chiu” or “Chiu gor” (big brother Chiu), as he taught many of them the values of a strong work ethic and resilience.

The company says its family and community will greatly miss his wisdom, caring, humour, and heart.