February 3, 1957 – February 29, 2024
The Pro-Demnity family is heartbroken at losing our dear friend and valued colleague, Margarette Chan.
Margarette was the heart of our organization, ensuring that everything ran smoothly and that everyone was taken care of. She was the first to acknowledge and celebrate special occasions and important milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, and company achievements. Her generous spirit, warmth, and kindness were just a few of her many qualities that distinguished her as the one we all gravitated to during celebrations as well as challenging moments. She was gracious, dignified, and the wind beneath our wings.
Never seeking out recognition for herself or her many valuable contributions, Margarette praised and raised those around her. She had an unparalleled work ethic, was unfailingly professional, and committed to both her work and team, supporting us at every turn.
Margarette joined the OAA in April 1988 as Secretary, about one month after arriving in Canada from Hong Kong. Six months later, she started as Assistant to the General Manager of the OAAs Indemnity Plan playing a key role in our company’s growth, development, and transformation into a full-fledged insurance company. She was a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) who served Certificate of Practice holders in the early days and was instrumental in establishing enduring relationships with Lloyd’s. As Corporate Secretary for over 35 years, she was our knowledge keeper, organizer, and trusted confidante – a best friend at work for many. In her professional role, she excelled in providing management support to the Board of Directors alongside our first President and CEO, Byron Treves, and more recently, Bruce Palmer. With a keen eye for detail, and ability to deliver with speed and accuracy, Margarette always ensured that we had the latest information at our fingertips.
Her joyous, sparkling eyes also held wonderment for the beauty of our world. No one loved the magic of Disney more than Margarette! Prized Mickey Mouse memorabilia and merchandise could always be found at her desk, and her sense of play and fun made the most mundane days, brighter. We will miss her dearly.
Our deepest condolences and love to her daughters Marsha and Meghan, her mother, sister, brother and her extended family.