SHAH ALAM: The family and friends of former politician and businessman Datuk Douglas K.K. Lee (pic) paid their final respects to the 98-year-old at Nirvana Shah Alam.

       Lee’s funeral ceremony began at 10am Wednesday (May 4) at the St Mary Cathedral in Kuala Lumpur, followed by a cremation ceremony at Nirvana Shah Alam at noon.

       Lee's friends and family members arrived at the church for prayers at 10am.

       The remains of the 98-year-old were transported to Nirvana Shah Alam for cremation in a white hearse.

       Lee, who is the eldest son of former finance minister, Tun H.S. Lee, was MCA's youngest candidate in first Malayan local election in 1952, winning the Imbi ward in the Kuala Lumpur municipal elections.

       He was also the MCA youth secretary-general and Salak state assemblyman.

       His daughter, Janet Lee, said on Facebook that her father was admitted to the intensive care unit last Saturday and died early Monday (May 2).

       "Very grateful that his passing was peaceful, with us beside him. Rest in peace Dad, you were the best," said Janet.

       Born on Dec 4, 1923, Lee was the former director of the International Association of Lions Club.

       His wife, Ruby Ong, died in 2009.

       "We have lost a 'Great Lion'," said Lions Club Kuala Lumpur exco member Lawrence Ang on Facebook.

       Janet said donations in lieu of wreaths will be appreciated, with all donations going to "Dad’s main passions, the Lions Club and Guangdong Youth".