In loving memory of Way-Chhin Tham, we are coming together to support a heartfelt initiative that will honour her legacy. This fundraiser aims to raise funds for a memorial bench, which her children, Winston and Tifanne, will place alongside their late father's bench by the serene banks of the Credit River in Erindale Park, Mississauga, Ontario.

Once we reach our fundraising goal, the bench will be purchased through the City of Mississauga. We will share updates and photos of this special tribute as soon as they are available, allowing everyone to celebrate Way-Chhin’s memory together. Any funds exceeding the goal amount will be used towards the sponsorship of a child in need at the dojo where Way-Chhin trained and competed.  

Thank you for your support in creating a lasting tribute to a remarkable woman.

We invite you to read Way-Chhin's obituary below:

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Way-Chhin Tham, lovingly known to many as “Way,” on October 23, 2024, after a difficult battle with stage 4 lung cancer. 

Way-Chhin was born on June 23, 1957, in Mumbai (Bombay), India, to Ming Hung Lee and Chuan Chi Chen. She was the youngest of 5 sisters with one younger brother: Foong-Lan, Foong-Yin, Mei-Laan, Moneca and their brother Chien Wien. 

Way-Chhin graduated from St. Agnes’ High School and St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai. A proud member of India’s National Field Hockey team and a black belt in martial arts, Way-Chhin exemplified strength and discipline throughout her life. She worked as a flight attendant for Indian Airlines before she made her home in Canada, where she contributed her talents to Metro head office, Mississauga Honda, and Chiovitti Banana at the Ontario Food Terminal.

Known for her fierce spirit, determination and resilience, Way-Chhin faced life’s challenges with grace and strength. Her kind heart and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She instilled these same qualities in her children, nurturing their spirits and shaping their lives with love and unwavering support. 

Way-Chhin was an amazing chef and created countless cherished memories around the dinner table with her delicious meals. A seasoned world traveller, Way-Chhin explored many parts of the world making lasting memories with friends and family. When she wasn't travelling, she found peace tending to her garden, earning a reputation for her pristine lawn and beautiful backyard.

Way-Chhin was predeceased by her beloved husband, Monchu Ivan Tham, as well as her parents and her younger brother, Chien Wien Lee. In her final moments, she was surrounded by the love of her family and passed peacefully with her children by her side. 

She is survived by her son Winston Tham, daughter Tifanne Thayme, daughter-in-law Victoria Tham, son-in-law Eamon Sallam, her adored grandchildren Ethan Ivan, Sasha Mei, Aurora Jade and Everett Monchu, sisters Foong-Lan, Foong-Yin, Mei-Laan and Moneca along with many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Way-Chhin was a beloved mother and Phobo who valued family above all else, drawing immense joy and pride from her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her world. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish her memory and the profound influence she had on their lives. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.