From: Randy Miller / Margo Strouts
Relation: Dear Friend and Neighbour

A Tribute to Our Dear Friend and Neighbour, Wayne “Cheester” Chee
By Randy and Margo
Wayne and Rose Chee moved to Anarchist Mountain in late 2019. We’re not entirely sure when we first met, but from the beginning it was clear—they were a deeply loving and appreciative couple.
Our friendship began with shared dinners, which quickly revealed Wayne’s passion for cooking. And not just cooking—he was a phenomenal chef.
We’d been living on the mountain since 2016 and had learned to navigate the harsh winter conditions. For Wayne and Rose, coming from the city, it was a new chapter. Wayne soon embraced the challenge and became what one must up here: a dedicated yard and property caretaker.
When winter came, so did the snow—and Wayne earned the nickname “Snow-plow King.” Even when his plow was damaged by a hidden rock, his work ethic never wavered. He started hand-shoveling his entire driveway without complaint.
To ease the burden, I introduced Wayne to Andy the Welder, his immediate neighbour, who had been helping us with repairs for years. In no time, the broken plow was restored, and a new friendship blossomed. Weekly drop-ins with Andy became tradition. They’d discuss life, fixed things, and share wisdom. Wayne always expressed deep gratitude for the relationship he built with Andy and Rosalie.
Wayne and Rose undertook major home renovations early on, guided by another neighbour, a design expert named Elena (with her husband, Andre). Unfortunately, their original contractor was quite ill, and the work suffered. That’s when I stepped in to help.
Though carpentry wasn’t Wayne’s strong suit, he never hesitated to learn. Together, we got the basement renovation back on track. We had our own renovation happening at the time, but helping Wayne and Rose was never a chore—it was an act of love. They were always so thankful for every bit of support.
Where Wayne truly excelled was in the garden and kitchen. He taught me that cooking could be a joyful release—and even better when it involved sharing meals you love with people you care about. The many dinners we shared with Wayne and Rose deepened our bond over the years.
Then came the call from Andy. Wayne had passed. That moment was one of the saddest in my life. How could someone so seemingly healthy—who ate so well, worked so hard, and gave so much—be gone so suddenly? I still can’t believe it.
What makes the loss even heavier is knowing that his beloved Rose is now left behind. Wayne wasn’t just her life partner—he was also her devoted caregiver. The morning, he passed was meant to be the beginning of a long-awaited six-week vacation to Portugal, Rose’s homeland—a journey they had dreamed of and planned together.
Wayne’s legacy shines through in the friendships he forged, and the final Celebration of Life held in his honour. The world dimmed the day Wayne left us, but for those fortunate enough to know him—and be counted among his friends—his light remains.
I miss my little buddy, Mr. Cheester. He will live forever in our hearts and souls.
Rest well, Wayne—you truly earned it.