Lewis Chin

1927 - 2015

Lewis Chin was a legendary San Franciscan — a truly one-of-a-kind, self-made entrepreneur and entertainment impresario. Flamboyant, fun-loving, friend to legions, mentor to many, clothes horse, scratch golfer, energetic skier into his 80s, and never lacking for moxie. Lewis’ life spanned his humble beginnings back east to his nationally-recognized auto salesmanship, popular Broadway/North Beach nightclubs and the leisurely links of Lake Merced Country Club (where, as a 38-year member, he won many friends, trophies and a side bet or two).

On May 13, 2015, at age 88, Lewis succumbed to heart failure in the arms of his loving wife of 26 years, Mimi (Lee).

Lewis is survived by Mimi and her extended family; his first wife Barbara Chin and their children Daryl Chin (wife Dallas Chin, children Courtney, Matthew, Brittany); Cynthia Chin-Perez (husband Juan Perez, daughters Monica, Adrienne) and Robin Chin (partner John Grimes); Mimi’s daughter Angelica Lee (husband Darwin Ching, sons Mason, Tyson); his second wife Betty Louie (daughter Colette); and the families of his late sister Eileen Foo and late brother Charles Chin. Lewis was also blessed and loved by a huge extended family and a lifetime of dear friends.

Friends are invited to a Motown-infused Celebration of Lewis’ Life on Thursday, May 21 from 10 to 11:30 am at Cypress Lawn Funeral Home, Tiffany Chapel, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma. (650) 550-8808. Colorful attire preferred.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Chinese Hospital are appreciated: chinesehospital-sf.org/donate-now