Henry Ma was a quiet and non-demonstrative man who always conducted himself with the dignity and benevolence that classical Chinese culture esteems. 

There was only a single occasion I witnessed where he spoke at length without a break.  It was in a discussion with my mother, the older sister of his wife, Connie,  on a dilemma my mother had.  He talked nonstop for perhaps a minute and a half, while the three of us listened. I understood very little of it as he spoke in Chinese, but it was clear he had a determined opinion — which he expressed forcefully. 

My mother later summarized what he had said.   In keeping with his manner and presence, I knew then that he also had a strong sense of Justice. 

As my spoken Chinese improved a bit in the last few years, I was able to engage with him and Connie about many interesting topics.  These chats remain in my memory as wonderful moments to set alongside my memories of my late parents. 

A famous Latin writer named Catullus wrote, at his brother’s death, a phrase which became famous, which I quote here: “Ave Atque Vale”, translated in English as “Hail and Farewell,”.  The meaning is “hello and goodbye — life is very short”.

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Si Yun Ma

30 January, 1933 – 13 April, 2025

Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home & Cemetery

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