Remembering Markham’s favourite “tito” (uncle)

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 would like to offer heartfelt condolences to the family of former Ward 8 Councillor Alex Chiu. Alex passed away peacefully at the age of 82 with his beloved wife Alicia and daughter Cherrie-Marie by his side.

Born in Candaba, Philippines, Alex Chiu served on Markham Council for 33 years and played an instrumental role in the City of Markham’s growth and development. As we celebrate Markham’s 50th anniversary this year, we are reminded that it was Alex Chiu that championed Markham’s change from a town to city in 2012. Alex was a fixture in the Milliken Mills community and was instrumental in the push for the Milliken Mills Community Centre which opened in 1989. As an avid swimmer, Alex took great pride in being one of the first persons to swim in our new aquatic facilities, including the Markham Pan Am Centre. In recognition of his extraordinary public service, the pool at Milliken Mills Community Centre was dedicated in his name in 2019.

An exceptional community leader, Alex fundraised for a variety of community organizations including all three York Region hospitals. Known as “Alex’s Swim,” he swam 100 laps non-stop each day for one week as a fundraiser for the City of Markham’s United Way campaign. Over 20 years, the Alex Chiu Golf Tournament donated more than $2 million to many organizations including the Markham YMCA, York Regional Police Community Safety Village, Power Unit Youth Organization, and the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services, amongst others. He also raised funds for a mobile fire house teaching children about fire safety. As co-chair of the annual Markham Theatre Gala, he raised thousands of dollars for the Discovery Program providing children the opportunity to experience live theatre.

Included in his philanthropy was a cause near and dear to him: ALS Double Play. After losing his son Christopher to ALS, Alex and his family made it their mission to continue Christopher’s legacy through fundraising for ALS research. Just this week, York University announced the first student award established at the future York University Markham Centre Campus. The Alex Chiu Community Involvement Award in Markham is an entrance award to graduating Markham high school students attending York University Markham Centre Campus who have demonstrated outstanding community involvement.

The Philippines was always close to Alex’s heart. One major fundraising initiative involved the building of a housing complex in the Philippines named “Markham Village” in honour of his efforts. Proud of his cultural roots, Alex helped establish the Centre for the Federation of Filipino Canadians of Markham. He was the patron of the annual Philippines Independence Day celebration and raised money for the statue honouring Dr. José Rizal located in Box Grove. Alex was a proud Canadian, co-chairing Markham’s Canada Day celebrations for many years. As Chair of Economic Development, he sought opportunities to connect Markham with the global community. Alex was instrumental in forging friendship agreements with the cities of Foshan and Nanhai in China.

On a personal note, I will miss Alex’s friendship and guidance. Alex and I joined Markham Council at the same time and I was proud to call him a dear friend. Not only was he a trailblazer for politicians of Asian heritage, he was a man of great integrity and decency. A man of a few words who knew how to get things done. Well respected by his council colleagues, Markham staff and constituents, he was always willing to help with a smile on his face.

Former Councillor Alex Chiu retired from political office in 2018. His contributions to our community were immense and his legacy will never be forgotten. Flags at all City of Markham facilities including the Markham Civic Centre, Milliken Mills Community Centre and Markham Fire and Emergency Services stations will be lowered in his honour and memory starting Saturday May 29th and remain until the night of June 3rd. May he rest in peace and his family be comforted by warm memories and the appreciation and gratitude from our entire community. We invite the public to sign a virtual condolence book at www.yourvoicemarkham.ca.

As it was customary for Alex to end council meetings, today we collectively say “move to adjourn” on a life well lived.

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