Rose So-Jan Chin

March 5, 1927 – August 11, 2012

Rose So-Jan Chin passed away peacefully at home with her children by her side. Born in Guangzhou, China, daughter of Kwan Bing Kin (Harold Kong) and Kwan Ng Hang Sin (Betty Kong). After growing up amidst the turbulence of wartime China, she immigrated to San Francisco, where she married Dr. Foon P. Chin in 1949. Fiercely intelligent, she transcended the boundaries of her traditional role. She learned English by listening to radio programs and reading magazines, attending classes in English and typing, while caring for a multigenerational household and raising four children. Her resourcefulness enabled her to help manage her husband’s medical practice for many years. An accomplished painter and calligrapher, So-Jan was a longtime member of the Asia Society of Arts of America, where she studied under renowned Chinese art masters, and enjoyed enduring friendships. An enthusiast of classical Chinese music and opera, she played the guzheng. Rose So-Jan Chin will be remembered for her effortless warmth and kindness, as well as her determination, strength, and tenacity. She is survived by her brother Wyman K. Fong (Stella), and her four children, William (Doris), Arthur (Linda), Marian and Lawrence, grandchildren Sarah and Grace, and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 25, at Cypress Lawn, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Chinese Hospital, or the Asia Society of Arts of America, 899 Washington Street, Suite 5, San Francisco, CA 94108.