Lily, whom we lovingly call Dichi, often said that Ahya was the answer to Papa and Mama’s prayers. As the firstborn, he was dedicated to God from the very beginning. He did well in everything — in school, in sports, even in Chinese calligraphy, where his work was proudly displayed. From a young age, he carried great responsibility, but also great promise.

It was through Dichi that Ahya met Asoh, or Leanne who was her close friend and staying with the family at the time. 

We love you Ahya!!!

Philip is the eighth in the Li family and grew up looking up to Ahya as his hero. One memory that stayed with him was a layover in Chicago, when Ahya drove all the way from Michigan just to spend a few hours showing Philip and Tenny around the city. On another occasion, Ahya drove to New York to pick Philip up and then drove across the country with him to Vancouver. He loved long drives. Tenny remembers him eating watermelon seeds to stay awake, while Philip remembers how relaxed he looked behind the wheel — one leg up, cruise control on, completely at peace.

Ahya also loved taking the family out on his boat on Lake Michigan. Philip remembers that Ahya had a special gift: he could talk to anyone. His warmth made people feel comfortable and at ease. Even though they did not spend much time together growing up, Philip always knew that Ahya loved him. Ahya made a point to visit Philip in Canada and spend time with his children, Joshua and Katriel, who fondly called him A-Pe and cherished the moments they shared with him.

Philip recalled that in 2009, the family gathered in New York to celebrate Mama’s birthday, and Ahya joined them for the occasion. After the celebration, they noticed that he was having difficulty speaking. It turned out to be a stroke. Even in that difficult moment, his greatest wish was to return home to Michigan to be with Asoh (Leanne). When he was discharged, he was excited to see her again. Although the family encouraged him to go straight to the emergency room when he arrived home, his heart longed first to be home. Through physiotherapy and determination, he continued his recovery with remarkable strength.

Just last August, the family visited Ahya and Asoh. They laughed, sang, and shared beautiful moments together, not knowing it would be their last time seeing him on this earth. Ahya told stories about his work at Ford and about how he met Asoh. Each story was filled with joy.

At the memorial, Philip’s wife noticed bicycles made out of wire. Philip recalled that during one of Ahya's visits to Vancouver, he had seen someone selling similar pieces at Granville Island. When they returned home, he immediately made his own the very next day. Only then did Philip’s wife realize that it was Ahya who had made the wire bicycles they had displayed in their home for so many years.

Today, the family’s hearts are heavy, yet they hold on to hope. Ahya is now home with our Heavenly Father, Papa, Mama, Josefina, Andrew and Sisy. One day, by God’s grace, they will see him again.

James, Jimmy or 4hya seldom comes to America. But on one of his visits to Michigan, Ahya made sure it would be a trip to remember. He even took Jimmy across to Windsor, saying that was where the best Chinese food could be found.

Jimmy still remembers how Ahya showed him around with so much warmth and excitement. At one point they bought a bucket of KFC chicken, sat together in the park, and shared a simple meal while Ahya told his stories. Those small moments meant the world.

Today, those memories live on—reminders of Ahya’s generosity, humor, and the way he made ordinary moments feel special. He will always be remembered with love and gratitude. 

God had brought me to CBC Tuesday Night Volleyball Ministry back in 1999. From there, I recall memories of listening to Peter sharing The Gospel to everyone. He let me play on his volleyball team in my first tournament that year in Chicago. I didn’t like that we lost and vowed to get better as a volleyball player. Peter spent time with me before or after volleyball nights drilling, coaching, and teaching me more about the game. The words being shouted out “MOVE YOUR FEET” if I ever reached to pass a ball and shank it to another zip code. I was excited to learn his no-look upper cut serve. God had placed Peter in my life with volleyball that led me to competing in tournaments, then opened up doors for me to coach, ref, and run clinics during my college years.

After I had accepted Christ in my heart, we co-labored together Tuesday Night Volleyball Ministry. I recall one message I was sharing with the players that night, I felt so unprepared that evening. I had prayed before for God to use me. After the message, Peter came up to me and said “that was really good” and all I can think of is glory to God. I recall we spent time in prayer when we kept the doors open for players to come and play that evening on the day of 9/11. Peter & Leanne had always welcomed me to their home. I am blessed to have played in a volleyball tournament with each of his kids whom I can say are my friends: Lynette, Laura, and Tim. I give praise to God that I know Peter is with Him and for using Peter in my life. 

We met Peter when he and his wife moved to Madison. Laura and Pat are our neighbors. Dave always got a kick out of Peter’s University of Iowa hat that he wore. Dave was also an Iowa Alum. Sending our deepest sympathy to the entire family. 

Dave and Marie Mattison

My Tribute to My Ahia Peter

by Nathanael Li

Ahia was the eldest of our six brothers, and I am the youngest—the baby of the family. Because he left early for Manila to pursue his engineering studies, I did not have many years growing up beside him.

But I hold one memory very close to my heart.

When I was young there was a time when I would visit Manila with our mother almost every week, and I loved sleeping beside Ahia. There was a small dent in his chest where my head fit perfectly. I would rest my head there and fall asleep. In that simple moment, I felt safe and close to my brother. Even today, I still enjoy telling that story.

In the last few years, our conversations continued across the distance through Viber—while he was in the United States and I remained in Naga City in the Philippines, being invalid for the last few years of my life. Even if it was only for a few minutes, those conversations between us meant so much to me.

When I realized those chats would no longer come, I cried for a few days. But I remain thankful for those last moments we shared.

Ahia, you have gone ahead of us. But I look forward to the day when we will meet again—where there will be no more sickness, no more pain, and we will all be together with the Lord.

I love you very much, Baby

When I first came to CBC, I was immediately struck by seeing Peter and his wife, Leanne, serving together in the choir. He was a man of many talents—intelligent, athletic, and gifted with a beautiful voice.

But what I will remember most is his "handy" and humble heart. He didn't just study the Word; he lived it. By laying floors for families with elderly members and wheelchair needs, he turned his skills into an act of love. I truly cherish our time together in Bible study and the example of faith he set.

While we miss him, we find peace knowing he is now in the warm embrace of our Lord.

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!" — Matthew 25:23

Rest in peace, dear friend.

Peter was a precious friend who made a lasting impact on our family’s spiritual journey. Through his invitation and encouragement, our family—Te-Yang, Phillip, and I—began serving on the CBC praise team ministry, a calling we continue to cherish to this day. We are especially grateful for the personal and genuine love, care, and steady encouragement he showed our entire family during the time he lived in Michigan. His kindness and faithfulness will always remain a blessing in our hearts.

“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.” (Acts 2:28)