The entertainment industry mourns alongside Dennis Chew, a 51-year-old radio DJ and actor, as he announces the passing of his father at the age of 82. On February 12, Chew shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, expressing gratitude and reflecting on precious family moments. His father's death follows closely on the heels of Chew's academic achievement, having recently completed his diploma in Chinese media and communication from Ngee Ann Polytechnic.
Chew's tribute highlighted the impactful lessons his father imparted, thanking him for nurturing his optimistic personality and unique sense of humor. He also credited his father for teaching him to live with sincerity, emphasizing the lasting influence of these values. Chew fondly recalled his father's introduction to the beauty of Huangmei opera and their first cinema experience together.
"Dad, thank you for bringing me into this beautiful world," Chew wrote in his tribute.
In an interview with AsiaOne on February 10, Chew expressed regret over missed opportunities to travel with his father. He recounted how his father often dismissed such plans due to the perceived costs and inconveniences associated with travel. Now with his father unable to walk, Chew lamented, "I should have 'forced' him back then. I shouldn't have just let it go when he rejected me." He recognized this as a lost chance to create cherished memories and deepen their bond.
"I have always wanted to bring him on an overseas trip, but he kept rejecting me," Chew shared. His father's view was that it was "costly to travel" and "troublesome to have to go and make a passport."
Chew also expressed a deep desire for familial closeness, despite not residing with his parents. He maintained a room for them in his home, hoping one day they could all live together. Reflecting on this, he shared,
"My greatest hope is that one day we would be able to live together."
"I love my family very much but I feel that if we can all live together, I would be very happy."
He acknowledged the inevitability of disagreements but saw them as opportunities to understand each other better.
Upon his father's passing, Chew noticed a small butterfly fluttering out of the room, a poignant moment he interpreted as a symbol of transformation.
"I believe that when a good person leaves this world, they first transform into a butterfly," he remarked.
The news prompted an outpouring of support from fellow celebrities, including Quan Yi Fong, Hong Huifang, Hayley Woo, Jernelle Oh, and Patricia Mok, who offered their condolences in the comments section of Chew's post.
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