Saint John memorial held for Chinese student

Saint John-area residents are paying their respects to a Chinese high school student who died last week in hospital following a near drowning.

A memorial service is being held Wednesday for Yi Fan Wang, the 17-year-old Chinese student who died in hospital last week after nearly drowning at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre two days earlier.

Jennifer Li, president of the Chinese Cultural Association of Saint John, said Wang managed to make a big impression in a short time.

Wang had just started classes at Simonds High School.

"Even [though] he only lived in Saint John 18 days, he died, but he lived in our hearts. We want to let Yi Fan know we all love him."

She said Wang's parents wanted the service to pay tribute to their son, but also to thank the people of Saint John.

"They know in Saint John their son got lot of love, lot of care and since they came Saint John they got lot of support and help. They really appreciate everyone to do this."

She said the Wang's host parents took the death hard.

The cause of the accident and cause of death are still under investigation.

Wang's parents expect to fly back to China on Thursday with their son's body.