A lecturer at Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Film and Media Studies, Susanne Chan Pek Lin, 59, was found dead at her home on 1 September due to a heart attack. This tragic event occurred just one day after her younger brother, Leslie Chan Peng Fai, 56, passed away on 31 August following a battle with lung cancer. The siblings’ deaths have left their family, particularly their 89-year-old mother, in deep grief.
## Background
Leslie Chan, who worked as a private hire vehicle driver, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer only a few weeks before his death. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, the cancer had already spread to his liver, leading to his demise. Susanne, who had been taking care of Leslie during his treatment, was deeply affected by his passing. On the day of Leslie’s death, Susanne helped arrange his funeral but was found unresponsive at her home the following day.
## Younger brother diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer weeks ago
Leslie began feeling unwell two months prior to his death. A medical examination revealed he had Stage 4 lung cancer, which had already metastasised to his liver. “As his condition was quite serious at the time, he received chemotherapy. However, the cancer cells had already spread to his liver, and he passed away on 31 August after being admitted to palliative care,” a cousin shared. Susanne was devastated by her brother’s condition and took meticulous care of him until his passing.
## Elder sister passed away the next day
On 1 September, family members became concerned when Susanne did not attend Leslie’s wake or respond to calls. A female cousin, unable to get a response at Susanne’s home, alerted the police and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). With the help of a locksmith, they entered the flat and found Susanne deceased on her bed.
## Siblings’ 89-year-old mother grief-stricken
The sudden loss of both children has left their 89-year-old mother in shock. “Their mother is grief-stricken, as she never thought her children would pass away one day apart. However, she is also very strong,” the cousin said. Leslie and Susanne had been very close and had taken care of their mother together since their father’s passing several years ago.
## Family to hold sea burial for siblings
Honouring the siblings’ last wishes, the family will hold a sea burial. “Leslie had told me previously that no one would come to his funeral because he was single. Additionally, he did not want to trouble his family members, so he wanted to be buried at sea. Likewise, Susanne had also mentioned that she wanted a sea burial,” the cousin explained. The family will continue to care for their mother in the siblings’ absence.
## Elder sister had good relationship with students, colleagues
Susanne was well-regarded by her colleagues and students at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Many attended her wake on 3 and 4 September. One student recounted how Susanne had helped her regain confidence when she was considering dropping out of school. Another student mentioned that Susanne had retired in late February 2024 to travel and pursue her interests. In 2023, Susanne received the Long Service Medal for her 25 years of dedicated service in education, a testament to her commitment and character.
## Community response and future implications
The deaths of Susanne and Leslie have deeply affected their community. The family is now focused on supporting their elderly mother and fulfilling the siblings’ final wishes. The polytechnic community mourns the loss of a dedicated lecturer who had a significant impact on her students and colleagues. The family’s resilience in the face of such tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of support and unity during difficult times.
