Elaine L. Lim's Obituary
Elaine L. Lim OBITUARY
Elaine L, Lim, age 97, passed away peacefully in the loving presence of her children on May 23, 2023 in Castro Valley. Elaine was bom on March 2, 1926 in Guangdong province, China to Ou Hai Fa and Huey Dai Lay. She was the second child with an older brother. Ten years later, she became big sister to three younger sisters. Elaine helped around the village home very early on in her life including taking care of her three younger sisters. She was a devoted daughter and sister.
In 1947, Elaine married Foon Lim and had a daughter. Elaine and her daughter moved to Hong Kong to await their immigration papers to enter into the United States while her husband left ahead of them. She and her daughter arrived in San Francisco on October 15, 1950 and settled into their new home joining her husband In Oakland at 291 9th Street. They completed their family with the births of three sons.
Elaine was devoted to raising her daughter and three sons. She was a talented seamstress and made all her children's clothes. She did piece work at home so she could care for the children. Later when the children grew older, she worked in a union sewing shop on College Avenue.
When her daughter was learning to drive, Elaine was inspired to take driving lessons. And she bought her first car, a Chevrolet Chevelle.
In 1985, Elaine and her husband moved into her dream home, a 2 story ranch style house in Castro Valley. Her ability to drive widened her horizons. She was generous in giving her friends rides to church activities and shopping.
After she retired at age 62, Elaine enjoyed traveling, gardening, making clothes, shopping, taking English and computer classes, church activities and spending time with her friends and family. She remained active at the Chinese Independent Baptist Church in Oakland.
Elaine was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years(1997). After she became a widow at age 71, she found great comfort and support in her connection with the church and friends.
When her church needed space to expand, she accepted their offer to buy her Oakland house at 291 9th street.
Elaine will always be remembered for her love of family and for her generosity.
Elaine L Lim is survived by her daughter: Betsy; her sons: Bellman Jeff, Wayne, Harry; grandchildren: Matthew Lim, Jason Lim, Christopher Lim, Stephanie Lim, Ashley Lim Chac, Nicole Lim; Great grandchildren: Zoey Chac, Riley Chac, and Asher Lim. She is also survived by her three sisters, Diane Tong, Susan Lam, and Michelle Liu and numerous nieces and nephews.
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