Jingwen Hao, 88, passed away at 12:29 pm on August 25, 2014 at Valley House Rehabilitation Center, Santa Clara, California. She was born on July 13, 1926 in Beijing, China and graduated with a college degree in Tianjin, China. She had a successful career in education as a high school teacher for more than 30 years.
In 1986, Jingwen Hao and her family immigrated to Berkeley, California. She became a devoted and delightful volunteer for and an active member of the Berkeley Senior Center and shared her extraordinary talents in painting, calligraphy, craft art, poetry, piano, and taiji quan.
Her love of dance and music filled her with endless strength throughout her life and she wanted her funeral and memory to be the same. She wished for the music of dance to accompany her to rest in peace and for people to overcome any sadness to celebrate her joyful life with happiness.
Choh-Lih (Cheuk Lap) Li, 92, passed away at 2:38pm on December 24, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. He was born on January 4, 1924 in Canton (now Guangzhou), China, and graduated with a B.S. degree in economics from China's National Central University of Nanking in 1948.
He had a difficult life in his early years before he immigrated to the U.S. in 1986. As an American Chinese, he loved China by birth and the United States by choice. His love for his native China was not without sacrifices.
In the fall of 1949, he had turned down the offer of admission accompanied by a rare scholarship to the prestigious London School of Economics. He, thereby, surrendered a very desirable advanced academic opportunity, and dedicated himself, instead, to help build a new China, the People's Republic of China.
In 1957, along with many Chinese intellectuals, he was criticized and framed as one of the rightists during "the anti-rightist movement". For more than two decades (from 1957 to 1979) he had to endure harsh labor in the countryside and suffered many social and political humiliations.
In late 1979 Mr. Li was able to move to Hong Kong and worked as a research consultant for Hong Kong TVB Corporation until he and his family immigrated to live in Berkeley, California. Even after having had such twists and turns in a tough life, his devotion to his native land and modern economics never diminished.
While he was not able to apply his professional knowledge to help his native land in the beginning, he did his best once the opportunity arrived. He was among the pioneers to introduce western economic thinking and market concepts to readers in China.
He authored several books in econometrics, and economics decision making/modeling and forecasting. He also translated books in economic system at a time when China just opened its door to the world in early 1980s.
Mr. Li was fortunate, indeed, to have had a wonderful wife, a loving and courageous soul mate, who had always stood by him throughout the ups and downs in life until she passed away two years ago.
He never wavered in his commitment to help his Motherland, to his profession as an economist, and to his family. He was very proud of being a member of the "Li Rong Yin Tang" (李荣荫堂), the ancestral name for his Li Family lineage as coined by his Father, which had produced many distinguished and productive contributors to our society.
He remained very open-minded in his thinking and had an insatiable love of learning. Being fluent in both Chinese & English, he continued to read up on history, literature, philosophy, mathematics and poetry. To be able to spend time reading and doing research in a library were always a great joy.
He also enjoyed the challenges of chess, the game of "Go", the card game of "Bridge" and the game of billiard, which also tested his manual dexterity! To the very end he always displayed loving kindness, patience, and consideration with a perpetual smile. With the very last breath of his great life, he waved warmly to the people in his room and said: "Bye"!
His beloved daughter, Xin Li, who had been taking meticulous, loving care of both of her sick parents for the last four years, survives Mr. Li. Her love and filial devotion had moved everyone. Yes, he had left us, but his spirit will be with us forever.
Please share your favorite memories!
愛。
First i want to say May God Rest Mr. Li in heaven with his beloved Wife Mrs. Hoa. My deepest sympathy to Cindy who tirelessly be there for him until the last minute of his life. Cindy, may God give you a courage to over come your loss. Negassi A.
T.V.B Uncle & Me: Michael Hutchinson On the warm early evening of July 28th, 1976, the earth below the city of Tang Shan, China, began to violently shake, rattle and roll, to the tune of a magnitude 7.1 on the Richter Scale! Being a San Francisco Boy, I knew a 7.1 was about the same as the Great earthquake of 1906 that demolished much of S.F.... my home town. As Tang Shan's buildings collapsed, casualties and deaths grew to thousands, and eventually to millions. Among the chaos and misery were many heroes who worked tirelessly, entering wrecked buildings to save the lives of people trapped in the wreckage. Fortunately, Uncle Choh Lih was able to gather his family and escape their damaged home in Tianjing near Tang Shan. He contemplated the future and made a critical decision: It was time to move south,........... far south!....... to Hong Kong. As for Me,...... I had to make a decision too. After living in Taiwan for six years teaching electronic design at the Tatung Institute in Taipei, I wanted to start my own small company to create and manufacture new electronic devices. I quickly discovered it was nearly impossible, as a foreigner, to start a company in Taiwan. As so, I too decided to go south..... to Hong Kong. In the mid 1980s I had the good fortune to attend the same church and become acquainted with Dr. & Mrs Ching who lived in Kennedy Road in the Mid Levels district of Hong Kong. Occasionally Mrs. Ching would invite me to their Saturday family lunch, where Beijing food was served......... a taste I enjoyed but was hard to find in Hong Kong. On one occasion they had another guest, named Kitty Ching. We chat ted across the lunch table and found we both enjoyed movies. I mentioned an upcoming movie festival at the Hong Kong Art Centre, and, thanks to Humphrey Bogart, we ended up getting married in 1990. Thanks to Kitty, I was introduced to the Li clan. I first met Uncle Choh Lih with Kitty for tea time in Sai Ying Pun just down the hill from where Kitty and I Live today. THANKS Uncle Choh Lih We Miss you! But we will always remember your wisdom and good Humor, especially when you and the entire USA branch of the Li family gathered in Yosemite national park with Kitty and I prior to, and then during our marriage in San Francisco at the Palace of Fine Arts.
Grandfather, God bless you everything good in heaven. I remember when we were in San Jose, you like Richard so much. And you hold Richard's hand. For my deeply impressions he called you great-grandfather. Look at him nicely and kindness. I remember i told Richard and hope he can be good as great-grandfather like economist. I see your smile and you gave a nod of assent. I keep all photos and videos in US we had a good time there. You, great-grandfather,great-grandmother, uncle Huan, aunt Cindy, we had good time in San Jose. Time is so fast, even Richard growing up i will show him about good memory in San Jose. He knows all of you. I believe you will good in heaven. Stay in peace. Hope you have new begining and new future. Our family will blessing you. Jingjing
Hello Xin, With deepest sympathy on your loss. Sincerely, Your Friends at Ixia.
Dear Cindy, Our prayers are with you in this time of great Sorrow. The love and warmth showered by your father would remain with us till the end. Your father had a kind spirit and a humble soul. He touched everyone with his noble heart and gentle smile. His steely resolve to overcome adversities would always serve as beacon to guide our lives. We will always cherish the sweet memories and times we spent with him. Spiritually he will always remain with us. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Jennifer with all family members
Hi Cindy, Sorry for your loss. I don't know how to express my feeling at this moment. It is a precious memory when your mom and dad under my care, and we treat each other as friends. I will pray for them rest in peace. You taking care of yourself too. Sincerely Wen
It was our pleasure working with Mr. Li. My deepest condolences are with you. He will be missed.
I've known your father Cindy! I'm glad to have known your family throughout these years. Take care my friend!
Cindy, We will surely miss having your father around. Deepest condolences. All nurses in the Station#4, Valley House Rehab. Center
Dear Uncle Choh Lih waved 'bye' peacefully on Christmas Eve to bid farewell to the world, and to reunite with dear Auntie Jingwen Uncle Lih was magnanimous, endured years of hardship with hard work. He had extensive knowledge, and made great contributions to his motherland with his expertise in economics and finance. He read a lot, played chess, card games, and billiards. The family enjoyed the old age in the US together with his brothers and sisters-in-law! Dear uncle was open and candid, had a clear conscience. Santa invited him to heaven He is the Santa Claus in our heart!! Dear Uncle Lih, please rest in peace, we will always miss you! Zi Ran & Ping Chuan
Dear uncle Li, You passed away just before 2016 Christmas, left behind your love, warm smile, wisdom and all happy memories with us....., it is sorrowful moment but we would like to praise that your are great father, great husband, great uncle, great man with noble personality! Praying you are in another beautiful world with auntie Hao, praying you are blessing your children and all loved ones forever! Farewell uncle Li !
Cindy, It was an honor to know your father. Deepest condolences.
Your father will be greatly missed! You are a wonderful daughter and have been a pleasure to get to know. My deepest sympathies for you and your family.
Uncle Li has left us. He went so calmly and gracefully, he even use the last bit of his strength to wave and say goodbye to the nurse accompanying him. What a kind hearted and unique old man! Anyone who had met Uncle Li said that he was a gentle man. No matter what kind of hardships he encountered in the first half of his life, he was always sincere and talked to people calmly, without reflection of the unspeakable unfair treatment he experienced in life. All of his former colleagues, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances regarded him as a knowledgeable, graceful, and well educated man. He had a peaceful temperament, and had a broad range of interests. After retired in the US, he continued to read and write tirelessly. He wrote several books and translated economic-related books. Uncle Li was a role model for the younger generation. I respected and liked Uncle Li because he was very knowledgeable. From the time I knew him in the seventies, I often saw him reading books in English. He was good not only in economics, but also in history, literature, philosophy, mathematics, and poetry. He was also proficient in chess, bridge, and billiards. Despite the many ups and downs in life, he remained calm and poised. His longevity was benefited from his love of life, self-cultivation, compassion, and kindness. Farewell, Uncle Li!
At the very end of the 2016 year, you walked away from us and your family quietly and peacefully. My mom was the classmate as well as the best friend of your beloved wife. Since their college life, they had kept longer than 60 years of friendship. For this, we had the good fortune of getting to know you and your family. Every time we visited your family, starting when you lived in the Berkeley apartment, you always smiled to meet us. During the warm family talk, you quietly sat and listened with smile. Although you talked less during the family talk, we knew you were a very kind man, a caring father, a loving husband, and a friendly elder scholar. Four years ago, due to health reasons, you moved to the San Jose nursing home. My mom and I then had more opportunities to visit you and your wife almost every weekend. During each visit, you were always cheerful and smiling. Although passing away from us, you have left a memory of unending positivity and cherished companionship with our family. Of course, you were very fortunate to have a daughter as loving and dedicated as Xin. We have retained the family friendship from your generation. We will be there if Xin needs anything. Mei Zhou Jinglan Meng Jifan Hu
Dear Uncle, I will always remember your smile and kindness. You have always treated me like a father, with unconditional love and care. I am sad to see you go, but at the same time I am heartened you are now reunited with my dear Auntie Jing-Wen. I miss you and I love you forever. Niece, Zhi-Hua (Patti)
It was the first day of March, 2014, when I arrived at the Valley House of Santa Clara in California. After more than a year of physical and emotional hardship, this good-natured and kind-hearted old gentleman welcomed me as his goddaughter. At his last birthday celebration, he personally gave me a big red envelope full of cash! I felt very lucky because he was from a very large family of eleven siblings with great academic standing, many professors and medical doctors! Godfather had told me there was even one brother, a medical doctor, who had treated Mr. Zhou Enlai, the first Premier of the People's Republic of China. For two years and nine months I drove from my home in Union City, a commute of more than an hour each way! The first table next to the window of the dining room at the nursing home was our VIP table! Whenever I was driving to see him, I knew he would already be looking for me with great expectation. And his first words to me were always: How did you ever find me? or I have been waiting for you for a long time alreadyyou are finally here! I am glad to see you; you are responsible to me were the first English words he taught me. Then I would happily reply, Yes, I am Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. Wherever you are hiding, I can always find you! Over time he had given me three nicknames: Little Pebble, Little Miss Zhou and Miss Li #2. Whenever the nurses and workers at the nursing home saw us together, they would cheerfully come over and say hello. He would always smile and shake hands with them warmly. Eventually Mr. Li, my Professor Father, and I were a familiar sight. Everybody knew us. We became a beacon of hope and warmth among the sick. Almost everyday after lunch, I would help him into his wheelchair and take him outside for a walk. Sometimes we would go to 7-11, sometimes Safeway. He enjoyed these outings very much. Sometimes he would say, Don't leave me. I want to see you in front of me! I had to gently remind him that I had to push him from behind! He also loved to hear me recite some old, familiar, classic Chinese poems. After a while, he would ask if I was tired? How about sharing a cup of ice cream?! Those were among our happiest and unforgettable moments. Visiting the exercise room was a daily routine. Even though he was over 90 years old, he could stand up by pulling on the handrails with my help and we would bounce a ball to each other for over a hundred times. At times he became very tired, but for the sake of his health, he insisted on continuing. My heart ached for him, and also really admired him. There was a young man who helped out at the exercise room by the name of Rody who always liked to joke around with us. We called him Little Japanese. All the helpers in the room seemed to enjoy our company and the fun and laughter that we always brought. Father's positive attitude and perseverance deeply touched all of us. When he finally got tired, I would push him back to his room to rest. There were several nurses there whom I really liked. Together we would sing aloud a chorus of You Are My Sunshine. Father would be so delighted that he would actually join in and sang with us. Then he would pull at my hand and said, Thank you so very much! Or pleaded for me to return the next day, I'd wait for you! I was so very touched. On September 29, 2016, when I was pushing him and his wheel chair on our way to 7-11, he very clearly and distinctly told me that it was finally time for him to look up Hao Jing Wen, because she was getting very lonely by herself. And he followed up by saying to me, From now on there is no need for you to come visit me or follow me anymore. If you continue, it would become very painful for you. When I eventually pushed him past a gas station, he asked, Are you getting gas? and I had to tell him his wheel chair did not need gasHe continued to ask, Is Xin Li's house far away from here? Whatever you plan to do, will you discuss with Xin?He was saying and asking all these very strange questions! Now I understand. He was telling me his very last thoughts. After that day, Father's health worsened progressively. Eventually on November 13th, he could no longer close his mouth. Even staying in the hospital was no longer helpful. He spent the next 40 days in bed. Even in such dire condition, he never complained or asked for any special help. Nevertheless, I always gave him an extra blanket when it was raining hard outside. I also insisted on giving him a cup of Ensure, still hopeful that he'd get well eventually. Around 2:38 PM on December 24, 2016 my Professor Father left us forever. In just a little over two years (two years and nine months exactly), I got to know him and deeply felt that he was a very kind, genial and ordinary man and yet a great man! He kept reminding me to be satisfied with what I had, to be flexible and to be ready for any life changing circumstances and to always study hard! I have shed tears from my smile, tears from being so touched, and finally, tears from losing you. All these have become a part of me and will be a part of me for the rest of my life. I want you to know that. The dining room helpers can say in Mandarin, How are you?; people in exercise room can say, Stand up!; nurses can say, Time for your medicine!. All these reflect our deep affection for you! We hope the rest of your journey will be a smooth one! We will always remember you!
Larry and I are saddened to hear of Uncle's passing. Uncle Cheuk-lap was my father's youngest brother in a generation of 14 siblings. We share your loss. After a life of strenuous ups and downs, we know Uncle was prepared to join Auntie in continuing their life cycle together. He met life's challenges with an untiring spirit. Your long devotion and care of him and Auntie have been a model of filial piety for us and our relatives. Our deepest condolences Love,Jeannie and Larry
Sorry to hear about this. Take care, you and your father are in my prayers.
I am truly saddened to hear of your recent loss and would like to express my sincere condolences to you and your family on the recent passing of your father.
Growing up having contact with my uncles here in the U.S., it was only later in life I met the last male member of my father's generation. Uncle Cheuk Lap endured life in the mainland during the most tumultous periods, even by China's (or even my own) standards. His indefatigable outlook will provide fuel whenever I think of him. The open grain of a GO board facing heaven entertains another arrangement of stones.
Hi Xin. I am so sorry to hear from Winston of the passing of your father. I hope he was comfortable, and able to go in peace. I have very fond memories of both of your parents, who had such warm positive spirit. Don and I remember meeting your dad for the first time in Hong Kong, before your mom came and they moved to the US. Later, we had such fun meeting at Yosemite - they had come to make a new life in America. What a journey. I feel so lucky to have met your father now and again over the years. And I know my mother treasured both of your parents so much. Your dad was so lucky to have you as such a devoted and caring daughter. We send our heartfelt condolences. love Cora and Don
My deepest condolences to you and your family for your father's loss.
Please accept my condolences on the passing of your father, you did all to make his life comfortable, and his last days peaceful. It's a very difficult time for you, be strong. I wish that the New 2017 Year will be a good, productive, happy year for you, and all of us. The best
Although I haven't met Uncle Li many times, I feel like I am very familiar with him, his family, and his life stories, because of a very special friendship with his daughter, Xin Li. I've always admire Uncle Li's attitude towards life, his being intelligent and knowledgeable yet amiable, his vision, open-mindedness, and especially his ability to rise from the long, dark years and shine again much later in life. The memory of his pleasant smile, loving, caring heart, and indomitable spirit will live on.
Uncle Cheuk Lap (Choh Lih) was my Dad's youngest brother. He was only 17 years older than I. I was born in 1941, in Chungking (now Chongqing), China. It was during The War and it certainly was the worst of time for most everybody. Soon after I was born, my Dad's Nationalist government job required him to be at the United States. In fact, he left his young wife and new born son (me) behind during the rest of the war. Fortunately for my Mom and me, Uncle ( I called Lap Suk ) was staying with us. He was probably still in high school, but he became the de facto male figure in our little household. And you can surely say we, i.e. Uncle and I, grew up together! In our time together, this day in Chungking stood out clearly above all others. I remember it vividly as if it were yesterday. I was sound asleep on this one night but was rudely (so I thought) awakened and saw it was Uncle who was in a very excitable state, super hyperventilated. He raised me up so that I was sitting on his shoulders and he raced out of the house. What greeted us was a totally unbelievable sight: the whole sky was lit up by dozens if not hundreds of search lights criss-crossing across the sky with sirens blaring. I could see all the neighbors were out. They were all hugging each other and crying. All the while Uncle was telling me to remember this scene: Remember this moment, Winston, forever And so I have remembered but it was not until much later when I could determine that night's significance. It was the night of August 15, 1945, known to the world as V-J Day, victory over Japan, and I was sitting on my Uncle's shoulders, as if on top of the world! Uncle has always been an inspiration. His spirit and his smile will always live on.
With deepest sympathy to my cousin Li, Xin who so devotedly cared for Uncle in his final years. He will be missed by all of us but it has been a long life well lived with many memories of times passed. I will always remember his pleasant smile whenever he received visitors. In loving memory,
Dear Uncle, May you rest in peace.
In loving memory of a most remarkable and special person who affected many with her grace and humor both in China and in the United States. She will be missed by many of us who were lucky enough to have known her.
Dear Auntie Xin: I always remember Great Aunt's heartfelt laugh and her resonating voice. I remember going to a dance party with her at the senior center many years ago, her presence were felt by everyone. Her laughter and joy fills every corner of the room. That is how I remember Great Aunt!I will always miss her!
Memory party for Jing Wen Hao, September 10, 2014, North Berkeley Senior Center.Flowers & elegiac couplet (Wan Lian) with 25 signatures
Memorial party for Jing Wen Hao, September 10, 2014, North Berkeley Senior CenterSunny, Hao's best pal (98 years old), dance with Hao's goddaughter Wenny.
Memorial party for Jing Wen Hao, September 10, 2014, North Berkeley Senior CenterThe chairman of Karaoke club, Liu mama, sing a song
Memorial party for Jing Wen Hao - September 10, 2014 North Berkeley Senior Center.Berkeley dance group performed dance to commemorate Hao Jie
Memorial party for Jing Wen Hao - September 10, 2014 North Berkeley Senior Center.
Dear Cindy,Kwei and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of your mother. Although I didn't know her well, I was always delighted when we were together. Her zest for life was contagious; she always made me smile.I remember one day she was sitting at our dining room table with Auntie Annie, Auntie Sylvia, and Kwei's mother. They were trying to think of a Chinese name for me that sounded like my English name. There was much laughter around the table that day. Finally they settled on something, and wrote my "new" name in Chinese characters on a piece of paper. I still have that paper, and it makes me smile when I look at it. I remember all the good times I had with these four wonderful women, all now gone. I imagine them together now, giggling, and playing mah jong in heaven!
I met Mrs. Hao 20 months ago at valley House care center. she was one of my favorite patients. Mrs Hao was a very funny and intelligent women. Every time i walk in to her room to administer her medications she wel-come me with a smile and throw few jokes about the food channel she always watch. Every time i see her amazing art work hanged on the wall of her room, I can imagine how brilliant and creative mind she had. During her stay at valley house she cared more about her life time friend and husband Mr. Li. Before she goes to bed at night she had to make sure all her husband's meds are given. Even at her difficult last days of her life she didn't forget to call my name and ask for a glass of water. Even though she is gone to a better place. she will be missed by everyone who knew her. my condolences goes to Mr. Li and daughter Cindy. who was involved tirelessly in her mother's care from day one until the day she left us. again my heart felt condolence goes to the family. Rest in Peace Mrs. HAO.NegassiNurse at valley House care center
Auntie Jing-wen had such a zest for life and was such a kind, happy person. She was so richly blessed by friends and family. I'll miss her.
Dear Xin:It was an honor and a blessing to care for your Mom. many blessings to come for your family. Your mom was such a lovely woman. I often think about all the times we spent together and all the amazing moments! She was one of the persons to have around. The time I have her as my patient she was very kind and lovely, I have learned so much from her and will remember her always. Thanks to let me stay with your mom in her last moment, her and family will be in our prayers! God bless you always!
Dear Xin,We are deeply sorry to hear about the death of your mother. Our prayers are with you and your family.August 26, 2014
Dear Xin,May you all find comfort and strength in the warmth and caring of friends and family.Warmest regards, Lena, Geoffrey, Fasil, Michael, Shih, Richard, Randy, Hay, MingAugust 31, 2014
Mrs.Jing Wen Hao is one of my favorite patients that I take care of at VHCC. She is a good and joyful woman. When she comes across great pain from her Arthritis, she always has a smile on her face and is happy. Her happiness gives me joy to be a nurse. Mrs. Jing Wen Hao is also very diligent. She does her daily exercise and is very active in our nursing home activities. She is so devoted that she encourages her husband to exercise for his own well being. Mrs. Jing Wen Hao is patient and a strong woman. She teaches me Mandarin and exchanges jokes with me. I really enjoyed my time with Mrs. Jing Wen Hao. I will never forget her and my memories with her. I thought of her as my own grandmother. I will pray for you, Mrs. Jing Wen Hao. Please be in peace.VAN NGUYEN (SANTA CLARA,CA)
Ms Jing was such a nice lady. She was pleasant, and enjoyed music very much.It was a pleasure to have Ms. Jing at Valley House, she got along with everyone, and never had any complaints.She will be missed greatly. Manya,at Valley House Rehabilitation Center
I was Ms. Jing wen hao CNA, I am the one taking care of her since she got to her facility till she pass on, I refer to her as my grandma because she was just too nice, she had no problem with anyone. I no her husband will miss her so much to the extend that there can't be a replacement for her in his heart, she was a wife like mother to him, a wife like a sister, she always made sure his being taking care of adequately. I'm an Africa America & she's China America but i love her & I love her way of life, I miss u so much grandma. Rest in perfect peace.
Dear Auntie Jingwen, every time I met you you made me feel like your own son. You have touched many lives with your kindness. We will miss you here on earth.
Hao Jie and Hao GanMaEveryone called her Hao Jie( Big sister ), I called her Hao GanMa(godmother). She said: "Sister is younger, Mama is older, so no too loud when you call me GanMa.."We met at Berkeley Senior Center about 7 years ago,I was 50 ish, she was 80 ish, we love dancing, painting, arts and shared the same kind of outgoing personality, I was immediately attracted by Hoa Jie's happy gregarious disposition. We hit it off on day one! Hao loved ballroom dancing, she chose to dance the man's leader steps, she said: “I don't want to wait for a man to invite me to dance, this way I can get girls to dance with me whenever I want to!” So she did. Hao also took Belly dancing with us, when we were all shaking our Bellies and more, she would cheer loudly: "Hao (good) ! "We would contagiously be laughing-silly and just overall had a grand time! Hao is a great caretaker to everybody she knows. She used to bring me food from her kitchen, knowing that I do not like to cook. I said to her: “you treat me better than my own mother!” Thus, we have a new name for each other, I called her Gan Ma(godmother), she called me Gan Nuer(goddaughter). Sometimes, we were having a bit too much fun in the center, So she'll say to us: “I should stop playing today, time to go and take care my husband Lao Li now !” Hao volunteered in the senior center for decades, she was a true leader, she and her old pals Sun DaJie, Liu Mama, Ko Jie started Karaoke club, organized many social activities and Hao performed at our Chinese festival numerous times, make Berkeley Senior Center the most vibrant senior center for Chinese in the Bay area. She used to say: “I go to work at the Berkerley senior center.” Hidden behind her happy smiles, the painful rheumatoid arthritis had taken a toll on Hao's health, we so admired her positive cheerful disposition! She used to said: “when I wake up in the morning, I tell myself: I earned it one more day, I have to live to the fullest today.” Hao taught me to do the same in life, she told me to enjoy my life - to travel and to dance when I still can, to do the things I like and not to worry much about others opinions. So I did. This time she went away peacefully, left everyone with so much fond (fun) memories. She wants no sadness about her departure, no black clothing and tears, she wants us to dance and sing in her goodbye party. So we will. Hao was young at heart, unique in nature, let's all dance together where Hoa is dancing above and we are still on the earth. We/ I will miss you forever. Love you Gan Nuer Wenny
Dear Auntie Jingwen Hao,You walked away from us peacefully and comfortably, but left us with tons of wonderful memories!We knew you well through your long-time friendship with my Mom Jinglan Meng. Both of you were not only the close classmates, but also the best roommates in the college. Later, two of you were also working in the same institution for quite a long time. Most importantly, born in those years, you had a lot of commons and always took care of each other, particularly in those hard times during “Culture Revolution” in China. We really admired the friendship you had kept those years with my Mom. When you were fighting with rheumatoid arthritis, my Mom often asked us to drive a long way from Palo Alto to Berkeley to visit you. In our visiting, we saw your face flushed and eyes shined while talking with my Mom. We know nobody can replace the position of my Mom in your heart. Two years ago, due to the deteriorated health you moved to the nursing home in Santa Clara. My Mom asked us to take her to visit you every Saturday. Starting in the early morning, my Mom prepared and helped me cook whatever you liked to eat, including those Chinese deserts and foods. Even when my Mom were sick or felt uncomfortable, she still insisted to visit you. We asked her to stay in the home that day, but she said you were looking forward of someone coming to see you, particularly when she knew that you did not have many relatives to visit you in your sick days. While in the nursing home, we enjoyed listening your talk about those college life, funny stories about your roommates, playing in the same basketball team, enjoying eating after game, etc. I saw both of you laughed and laughed when you were chatting and recalling life in the college days. I remembered that after China trip, my mom brought photos of some old friends and college classmates. Both of you tried to memorize every classmate and funny stories. Sometimes, the same story were repeated and repeated, but you never felt bored.You were a great hero in fighting the disease. Your positive attitude towards the life impressed all of us around you. We saw your courage in fighting the disease pain in the joint by sharing us your diversified talents: painting, art, dancing, and playing many music instrument. You had set up a great example for us to live with a strong will. For sure, we carry over the friendship you had with my Mom to our generation. Xin and I will take care each other. We will help each other whenever who needs. Auntie, we miss you so much!Mei ZhouJifan HuJinglan Meng
Dear Auntie Jingwen Hou,You walked away from us peacefully and comfortably, but left us with tons of wonderful memories!We knew you well through your long-time friendship with my Mom Jinglan Meng. Both of you were not only the close classmates, but also the best roommates in the college. Later, two of you were also working in the same institution for quite a long time. Most importantly, born in those years, you had a lot of commons and always took care of each other, particularly in those hard times during “Culture Revolution” in China. We really admired the friendship you had kept those years with my Mom. When you were fighting with rheumatoid arthritis, my Mom often asked us to drive a long way from Palo Alto to Berkeley to visit you. In our visiting, we saw your face flushed and eyes shined while talking with my Mom. We know nobody can replace the position of my Mom in your heart. Two years ago, due to the deteriorated health you moved to the nursing home in Santa Clara. My Mom asked us to take her to visit you every Saturday. Staring early morning, my Mom prepared and helped me cook whatever you liked to eat, including those Chinese deserts and foods. Even when my Mom were sick or felt uncomfortable, she still insisted to visit you. We asked her to stay in the home that day, but she said you were looking forward of someone coming to see you, particularly when she knew that you did not have many relatives to visit you in your sick days. While in the nursing home, we enjoyed listening your talk about those college life, funny stories about your roommates, playing in the same basketball team, enjoying eating after game, etc. I saw both of you laughed and laughed when you were chatting and recalling life in the college days. I remembered that after China trip, my mom brought photos of some old friends and college classmates. Both of you tried to memorize every classmate and funny stories. Sometimes, the same story were repeated and repeated, but you never felt bored.You were a great hero in fighting the disease. Your positive attitude towards the life impressed all of us around you. We saw your courage in fighting the disease pain in the joint by sharing us your diversified talents: painting, art, dancing, and playing many music instrument. You had set up a great example for us to live with a strong will. For sure, we carry over the friendship you had with my Mom to our generation. Xin and I will take care each other. We will help each other whenever who needs. Auntie, we miss you so much!Mei ZhouJifan HuJinglan Meng
To Auntie HaoI met you in 1998, that was our first meeting. It was short but your talent , humor and kindness impressed me a lot. You were not young at all in your age but you were still "curious" to every thing including Blogs. I visited your blogs, by which I knew you more, and saw and went into your heart, a baby like heart. I also knew you were happy every day and enjoyed every minute of life. Now you left us, I am sure you will be happy and satisfied in the other side of the world. God will be with you.Shuqin liu
Xin, I just heard about your mother. I am very sorry about your loss, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Dear Li Xin, I'm saddened by the news of your dear mom's passing. You have been a good daughter, taking care of her and putting so much efforts in obtaining nutrition supplements/alternative medicine and having them professionally analyzed. There are no words I could offer to comfort you about your loss except the clilche that she's in a better place with no pain. What I remember the most about your mom are the joy she brought to everyone at the North Berkeley Senior Center and her upbeat spirits in spite of the debilitating desease. I could still hear her singing and laughing and see her chatting with Sunny and my mom. She cared about every one she met and every one loved her. She will be missed by all. Today I'll be dedicating some dances to the memory of your mom at the Center. Take care and please accept my sincerest condolences to your family.
Very sad to get news of the tragic loss of our beloved friend. Heartfelt condolence and deepest sympathy to her husband and children.
I'm saddened by the loss of Hao Jie but Thank you for letting us know. She will be missed by all. I will fulfill her wish with my dancing today and dedicate a few dances to the loving memory of Hao Jie. Regards,
Li Xin Ah Yi,I am very sorry to hear about your loss. It has been a long time but I still remember your mother's jovial nature. Come for Singapore for a holiday! Take care and I hope to see you soon!
Xin,I am very sorry to hear about your loss. A loved ones passing is never easy.Please accept my heartfelt condolence.My prayers are with you and your family.
Dear Xin, I was so sorry to hear from Geoffrey today the news about your mother. I want to express my deepest sorrow about that.I can imagine how difficult this time for you and your family. Please be strong, sometimes we must to realize that there are things in life nobody can change. My deepest condolences,
From Berkeley Senior Center :All Hao's senior center friends send their regards today. They sang the songs that Hao used to sing in the Karaoke club to remember her. They are planning a singing party for Hoa next Wednesday at their Karaoke club room. Hao is one of the founders of this club, and she is truly missed by everyone here.I shared some pictures from Jing Wen Hao's web site and my iphone pics. Hoa's best pals Sunny Sun and Liu mama are sad but happy that Hoa is in a better place with no pain.
Dear Li Xin, I am so sad to hear the news.I know how much you loved your mom, and you have demonstrated yourself a best duaghter to her. Auntie Jing-wen will always be proud of you, as having such a good daughter of her. Take care! And all the best to your and your father.
Anntie Jing-Wen was always a happy, very friendly and energetic person in my memory. She brings fun to people around her, and her positive attitude to life will be my model of life. She will be missed as a great mom!
Hi, Dearwith genuine sadness I learned of your mom's passing, please accept my and my family's heartfelt sympathy on the loss of my grandaunt Jing Wen Hao.I met her last year when I went to USA, Richard, my mom and I had great time with grandaunt Jing Wen. That is my valuable memory, we all remember her and cannot forget...Now she lives a beautiful place and may her rest in peace
Although I only met her few time, but I am so close to Xin, i feel i know her very well. she is a happy, humor, talent and colorful person. She never give up the joy of life, even when she was not mobile, she still wheelchair herself to places and senior center. All her friends love her, admired her. Because She have a big loving, giving heart.She will be my role model for life.
Some thirty years ago, I met Aunt Jing Wen when she arrived in Berkeley along with her family. Experiencing her penchant for joy and humor is nothing less than amazing, especially from someone who lived through the turmoil of such a tumultuous period on the mainland. She also expressed herself enjoying art, crafts, paintings, and dance. I will always remember her ready smile and uplifting spirit.
My husband, Larry, and I remember Auntie Jing-wen, Uncle CL and their family when they first joined uncle's two eldest brothers and their families in Berkeley in the mid-1980s. Auntie Jing-wen noted then that she will bring laughter to our homes. She did that and more.Through her joy, love, enthusiasm for life, and positive outlook in all she did (art, painting, dance, singing, cooking, gardening), my “dancing aunt” uplifted the spirit of those around her. She showed us how to live through the many adversities in life. She is and will be missed.
Loved and cared for me unconditionally. she was an amazing person at heart with full of charisma,positive, wisdom and much more... Aunt Jing Wen taught me many important things in life, and one of them was to always live life with genuine happiness and never give up when i am facing a mountain of obstacles. i will never forget all the great values and morals she has taught me , and i will continue to live the way she would want me to if she was here today. Auntie Jing Wen I miss you and love you! I hope you are being taken care of by all the loving angels from above.My emotion at the moment is too painful to express. However, i only know i will deeply miss my dear aunt Jing Wen. She was truly a second mother to me.
For Auntie Jing Wen.I met her only once in China many years ago. It was only after she and her family settled down in Berkeley near my parents that we kids got to know her. She always had a ready smile for us and, through her broken English, she would make witty comments. She was very approachable and well liked.Auntie found her new life in the USA very much to her liking. The little bit of independence that was always in her began to sparkle. After she became a member of the senior center, her life really blossomed. She seemed to enjoy ALL of their activities and exercises. She particularly liked dancing. She would twirl around even in the kitchen and she became known as the “Dancing Auntie”!As she slowed down in her later years, she had to adjust to a new life on a wheel chair. Of course, she did not let that bother her as she found a new outlet for her creative energy. She started painting, both Chinese and western. She also showed her whimsical side as she did many miniature carvings of melons and vegetables. They were both artistic and funny and were very much appreciated.Yes, we will miss our Auntie Jing Wen, but we are eternally grateful that her star shined oh so very bright when she was with us. We will never forget you.
Dear Cindy,Kitty and I are deeply saddened by the news of your mother's passing, but we're relieved that she will no longer suffer the pains that advanced age tried to pile upon her.Instead, we will always remember Jingwen for her warm smile, laughter, and wise comment that only a life of experience can bring.Her senior years brought forth a remarkable artistic talent that lives on, and shines from every canvas touched by her brush.One of our favorite memories is of your Mom climbing onto her electric scooter, rolling down the balcony, descending the lift, zooming down the sidewalk and crossing busy Grove Street on her way to art class at the Berkeley Senior Center. Her high spirit and style made Marlin Brando's movie stunts pail by comparison.Fathers are often thought of as 'head of the family' but Mother's are truly the family's core... we know you miss her, and will think of her often in future.We will miss her too. We miss her now.We know your mom suffered the pains of advanced age, and in this respect we are glad that her suffering is over, and that she is resting in eternity.We know that, right now, you are suffering the grief of her passing..... these feelings are natural. In time your grief will pass..... and as time passes you will remember your mother, and we're sure your memories will be good.We remember her too.....Love,Kitty & Michael
Please accept my sympathy. Your mother is one of the greatest person that I know. Jennifer Wang
I have many happy memories of auntie Hao, my close friend Xin's mother. I remember her smiling face, her talents and creativity in arts and crafts, and most importantly, her optimistic spirit that make her prevail in virtually any difficult situation in her life. I also remember her kindness and generosity, especially when I was in Berkeley during 1989-1990. I still remember the great taste of home-made dumplings and date bread ("Zao Bing" in Chinese, a typical Peking dish) that she made for me. During my last visit of Berkeley a few years ago, she demonstrated her paintings to me, all of them was done with her deformed hands due to arthritis. What an extraordinary lady!Aunti Hao has been, and will always be, an exemplary role model for us: LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST. May her rest in peace. Hong
For Auntie Jing Wen.I met her only once in China many years ago. It was only after she and her family settled down in Berkeley near my parents that we kids got to know her. She always had a ready smile for us and, through her broken English, she would make witty comments. She was very approachable and well liked.Auntie found her new life in the USA very much to her liking. The little bit of independence that was always in her began to sparkle. After she became a member of the senior center, her life really blossomed. She seemed to enjoy ALL of their activities and exercises. She particularly liked dancing. She would twirl around even in the kitchen and she became known as the
This is a great place to share with everyone, to memorize the good time we experienced in our life! In my memory, Auntie Hao was a happy lady, she was so enjoy the life, no matter what; and she made her life so joyful with her talents-piano, painting, dancing, singing, her life was so colorful! She had great attitude with life, she was such a strong woman I have ever seen. I belive there are lives in the haven, and Auntie Hao will have better life in the haven. She will enjoy more there with her new friends.
I m grateful to know her as a mother of my best friend ! She was an amazing person who always bring joy, love, passion, and strength to her family and friends ! An ordinary lady with a remarkable life ! She will be missed !
I knew Jing Wen Hao as the mother of my dear friend. She was a brave and extraordinary woman. Her full and colorful life had shined everyone around her. She enjoyed dancing, singing, music, art, poetry with great passion. She created numerous artwork and poems during her years of unbearable arthritis pain and severely deformed finger joints. She always had a genuine and contagious smile, and she was very considerate of others even during the last part of her life. She had been loved dearly and will be remembered by all around her!
I am writing on behalf of my own family, my husband Ping, my son Xiaowei from the East Coast; my mother Choh-Bao Li, and my sister Xiaogao and brother Xiaotao from China. I knew auntie Jingwen since my childhood back in China in early 1960s. Her delightful and optimistic personality and love of eating good food made her one of my favorite aunties. Back in China, life was very unpredictable especially for intellectuals. When my uncle, auntie Jingwen's husband, accidentally became “right wing” underdog in the late 1950s, the family was through very tough time with poor living conditions and mental sufferings for years of political isolation and criticism. Auntie Jingwen never left my uncle unlike many others did during that time. Her deep love and strong will kept family together; and her optimistic personality, loud laughers, and cheers at each meal time created a small piece of freedom land in that tiny home up on the attic away from outside politic suppressions and hardship. After the family immigrated to Berkeley, California, the life for first generation of immigrants especially in their 60 have not been easy. She was an energetic, cheerful, and devoted volunteer at senior centers. Her positive energy towards life affected everyone around her. Later her health was declined and suffered from a very painful arthritis for decades. She could not sleep when pain caught her at night but instead of crying out loud she was singing with lyric she composed for her own pain. Even in her wheel chairs, she managed to go to senior center singing and doing her craft art that everyone enjoyed during each holiday season. Right before her death at the nursing home, she still reminded her daughter Xin not to forget to pay for her caregiver and to send thanks to the staff around her. Her love to life, strong will to live, and positive attitude towards human suffering are good role model for all of us. She lived a beautiful life and may her rest in peace. Xiaohong in Connecticut
Thank you for posting this site, Xin. It so reflects Auntie's talent, fun, and love of life. She will be missed. We send you love and our deep condolences.