Michael Tse
August 9, 2025
Michael Tse was the kind of man who seemed to fit more life into his years than most could imagine. He passed away peacefully at the age of 67 on August 9, 2025, at Burnaby Hospital, surrounded by his wife, Margaret & family. Only a small circle of close friends knew he had been living with cancer since 2021. He didn’t want the shadow of illness to define his days. Instead, he chose to live with purpose, to keep working, exercising, cooking, travelling, and laughing.
In his professional life, Michael built a career he was proud of. He founded his own company, specializing in Employee Extended Benefits for employers, and he was doing quite well. His approach was thorough yet personal: he took the time to review employees’ benefit usage, made sure things were fair, and negotiated skillfully with insurance companies to get the best possible premiums. Employers trusted him, word spread, and that’s how his business grew—through a reputation for being fair, efficient, and always putting clients first.
And oh, how he loved a laugh. He was a man of refinement and generosity, with an insatiable curiosity about the world. He could talk for hours about anything—from wine to politics, sports to history—sometimes with spirited debates, but always with a twinkle in his eye and a desire to understand. If you were lucky enough to be invited to dinner, you knew you were in for more than just a meal. You were in for an experience. He would spend hours—sometimes days—planning and preparing, striving for the perfect balance of flavors. And he always told his guests with a hint of smile in his eyes: “Do not bring wine. I have more wine than I can drink in my lifetime.” (the underlying meaning)
Travel was one of his deepest passions. Even in recent years, he roamed the globe, collecting memories and stories along the way. He explored the wonders of Jordan and Egypt, sailed to the frozen majesty of Antarctica, stood at the edge of Iguazu Falls, wandered through the national parks of Chile and Argentina, and discovered the rugged beauty of Atlantic Canada. He found joy in meeting new people, tasting new flavors, and teeing off at golf courses wherever his journeys took him.
To those who knew him, Michael was more than just a friend—he was a source of warmth, wit, and inspiration. He taught us that life is meant to be savored, whether in a perfect bite of food, a breathtaking view, or a conversation that lingers long after the last word.
He will be missed beyond measure, but his laughter, his stories, and his zest for life will stay with us always.
A Memorial Mass for Michael is scheduled for 11 am on Saturday, August 23rd at Holy Cross Parish (1450 Delta Ave. Burnaby). In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:
Burnaby Hospital Foundation
https://www.bhfoundation.ca/ways-to-give/honour-someone/tribute-gallery/in-memory-of-michael-tse/
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Messages of Condolence
It was saddened to hear the loss of Margaret’s loved one through our regular chat group. Margaret, my best friend since high school, introduced Michael to me and my husband over 10 years ago in Toronto. We met him only once, but still remembered his big smile, his kindness and a person that was full of energy, and we admired his appreciation for food and wine. Margaret, losing Michael is an unimaginable pain, but you are not alone, lean on the love and support of your family and I am holding you close in my thoughts as you navigate this difficult journey, and the memory of Michael will forever be a source of inspiration for you. Love, May and David ~ May Fung
Many heartfelt condolences to Margaret and families. While we are sad for his passing , we fondly reflect upon and embrace the generosity of Michael’s character. Certainly he lived a full life , embracing joy , laughter, love, integrity, and commitment. Some of our memories include trips to France, Spain , Portugal and Morocco. What a joy that was , especially because Michael was so thorough in organizing the trip . And there’s the many golf games we shared . Michael , you will be missed , in many ways . May your memory and spirit live forever. Madeson and Dior ~ Madeson and Dior