Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Founder Dies At Age Of 81; All Outlets To Be Closed On 19 Oct


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On Sunday, 13 Oct 2019, Singapore lost an icon.

No, he was not a minister or a former President but he was an icon all the same.

Mr Wee Toon Ouut, founder of the popular chicken rice restaurant chain, Wee Nam Kee passed on this past Sunday.

He leaves behind family members, friends and a whole host of adoring fans.

I never knew Mr Wee personally, nor was I ever a regular patron of Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice, but Mr Lee touched many hearts and lives for sure.

The 81-year-old veteran was known for his friendly and down-to-earth personality.

One Facebook user shared that Mr Wee, or Uncle Wee, as he was affectionately known would always say ‘hello’ with a warm smile whenever he walked past.

Another regular patron of Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice, said that Mr Wee would bring extra bowls of rice whenever Francis brought his children to the restaurant.

Mr Wee always had a warm smile and would cheerfully tell the kids to eat more and to grow up big and strong.

Really warms the heart doesn’t it?

All Outlets Will Be Closed On 19 October

On Sunday, 13 October 2019, Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant posted the sad news on its Facebook Page:

No comments were made about the cause of his death, but as a mark of respect for the late Mr Wee Toon Ouut, all Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant outlets will be closed on Saturday, 19th October 2019.

Already, the post that was published less than 24 hours ago has already garnered 301 comments, 176 shares and 540 Facebook reactions.

Other Netizens’ Comments

Here are just some of the many comments:

Image: Facebook (Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant)
Image: Facebook (Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant)
Image: Facebook (Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant)

From the comments, it is clear that Mr Wee served up far more than just plates of chicken rice: He served up a taste of home for overseas Singaporeans and a taste of Singapore for his foreign fans.


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He has left a deep and lasting impression on all that he has come into contact with, and his legacy will always live on in his restaurant chain and in the hearts of his adoring fans.

Rest in peace, Mr Wee. Know that you will always be cherished and adored by those you touched with your kindness and generosity.