Obituary of Ivan Mack

MACK, Ivan September 15, 1933 – March 27, 2017Born in Toishan, Southern China and died in Edmonton, AB. Predeceased by brother, Howard; and parents, (Harry and King Gem). Ivan immigrated to Canada in 1955 to join his parents, Harry and King Gem with the Mack clan to run the Maple Leaf Restaurant in Canora, SK. A year later they owned and operated the Blue Bird Inn Café in Sturgis, SK. In 1962 he married his longtime pen pal and love of his life, Yvonne, with whom he shared 55 years and had three daughters. With his young family, Ivan moved to Edmonton in 1969 to pursue adventure and opportunities. Ivan''s love of reading and learning led him to open Edmonton''s first Chinese bookstore, "General Bookstore and Gift Shop" at 9654 Jasper Avenue in 1974.Ivan instilled the importance of learning and education in all three of his daughters, Teresa (Kevan), Melissa and Rolinda (Jim). He showed us through his own perseverance and determination how to achieve our goals. He was very proud of all his daughters and grandchildren, Noelle, Evan and Sara Mack- Peterson; and Julianna and Meredith Graham. Although he suffered ill health in the latter part of his life, he had the opportunity to travel and lived vicariously through his children and grandchildren. We will miss his honesty, integrity and friendship. He was someone you could count on.We are deeply saddened by his passing but know he is in a better place, free of pain and worry.Our deepest gratitude to his physicians, the wonderful support teams at the Good Samaritan Society''s Choice Program and Dr. Gerald Zetter Care Centre. Thank you to Dr. Birdi, Dr. Wirzma, Dr. Bryan and all the Unit 53 nurses and staff at the Grey Nuns Community Hospital who cared for Ivan during his last days.Funeral Service Saturday, April 1 at 10:00 a.m. at Park Memorial Chapel, 9709 – 111 Avenue, Edmonton with interment in Edmonton Cemetery. In lieu of other tributes, donations may be made to the Dr. Gerald Zetter Care Centre, 9649 – 71 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6E 5J2.Photos, memories and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.