Statement from Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti on the passing of former Councillor Alex Chiu
Remembering Markham’s favourite “tito” (uncle)
On behalf of Members of Council, City staff and the City of Markham, I want to express my sincere condolences to the family of former Ward 8 Councillor Alex Chiu. Alex passed away peacefully at the age of 82, surrounded by his loving wife Alicia and daughter Cherrie-Marie. Born in Candaba, Philippines, Alex Chiu served on Markham Council for 33 years and played a key role in the growth and development of our city. As we celebrate Markham’s 50th anniversary this year, we remember that it was Alex who advocated for Markham’s transition from a town to a city in 2012. He was a familiar face in the Milliken Mills community and helped bring about the Milliken Mills Community Centre which opened in 1989. An enthusiastic swimmer, Alex took great pride in being among the first to swim at our new aquatic facilities, including the Markham Pan Am Centre. In honor of his exceptional public service, the pool at Milliken Mills Community Centre was named after him in 2019. A remarkable community leader, Alex raised funds for various organizations including all three York Region hospitals. Known as “Alex’s Swim,” he swam 100 laps nonstop every day for a week to support the City of Markham’s United Way campaign. Over two decades, the Alex Chiu Golf Tournament contributed over $2 million to numerous causes like the Markham YMCA, York Regional Police Community Safety Village, Power Unit Youth Organization, and the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services among others. He also gathered funds for a mobile fire house designed to teach children about fire safety. As co-chair of the annual Markham Theatre Gala, he raised significant money for Discovery Program that gives children a chance to experience live theatre. Included in his philanthropy was a cause very close to him: ALS Double Play. After losing his son Christopher to ALS, Alex and his family dedicated themselves to continuing Christopher’s legacy through fundraising efforts for ALS research. Just this week, York University announced its first student award at what will be known as York University Markham Centre Campus. The Alex Chiu Community Involvement Award will be given as an entrance award to graduating high school students from Markham attending York University who have shown outstanding community involvement. The Philippines always held a special place in Alex’s heart. One major fundraising project involved creating a housing complex in the Philippines called “Markham Village” honoring his contributions. Proud of his heritage, Alex helped set up the Centre for the Federation of Filipino Canadians of Markham. He supported annual celebrations like Philippine Independence Day and raised funds for Dr. José Rizal’s statue located in Box Grove. A proud Canadian himself, he co-chaired many Canada Day events in Markham over several years. As Chair of Economic Development, he sought ways to connect Markham with communities around the world while playing an important role in establishing friendship agreements with Foshan and Nanhai cities in China. On a personal note, I will truly miss having Alex as my friend and advisor. We joined Markham Council together at the same time; I felt fortunate to call him my friend. He was not only an inspiration for politicians with Asian backgrounds but also someone with great integrity and decency-a man who said little but got things done effectively. Well respected by council members alike as well as by staff and constituents; he always lent a helping hand with kindness. Former Councillor Alex Chiu retired from politics in 2018 leaving behind immense contributions that will never fade from memory. Flags at all City of Markham locations including Civic Centre , Milliken Mills Community Centre , and Fire Services stations will fly at half-staff starting Saturday May 29th until June 3rd evening. May he rest easy while those who knew him hold onto fond memories along with gratitude shared across our community. We encourage everyone publically sign virtual condolence book available at www. yourvoicemarkham. ca. In keeping with how it was customary for him during council meetings; today we join together saying “move to adjourn” celebrating life lived fully. -30-Source link
