Jimmy Chu

Jimmy Chu, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and cherished member of the St. Louis Chinese community, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2024, in Chesterfield, Missouri, at the age of 76. Born on April 30, 1948 in Helena, Arkansas, raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and making his home in St. Louis, he lived a life marked by service, hard work, dedication, and love.

As a proud Army veteran, Jimmy served his country with honor as a medic before embarking on a successful career as an entrepreneur. With his wife by his side every step of the way, he was the founder and owner of two respected establishments in St. Louis with a career spanning over 40 years: the Canton House Chop Suey restaurant and St. Louis Bubble Tea, the first to bring bubble tea to the area. Through his work, he brought joy and community to countless individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the local culinary scene.

Jimmy lived life with no regrets. He was tough as nails but generous to a fault, always putting others ahead of himself. He never turned away from anyone in need, giving freely of his time, his resources, and his heart. Stubborn and prideful, he treated everyone with the same fairness and respect they gave him, regardless of their status. His commitment to others was unwavering, and those who knew him best remember how he quietly made a difference in their lives.

In his later years, as his health declined, Jimmy chose to step back from the social gatherings he once enjoyed, preferring the quiet comfort of home. Though he was less present in the community, his presence was still felt by all who knew him. His strength, generosity, and larger-than-life personality remained a constant source of inspiration to those around him.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jimmy was a man of deep passions and commitments. He found immense joy in gardening, nurturing his yard with a vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. He also cherished fishing and treasured every moment spent with his family, especially with his dear grandchildren.

Jimmy dedicated himself to the betterment of the local Chinese community through his role as a Restaurant Commissioner and as a former president of the OCA St. Louis chapter. His active involvement in supporting cultural initiatives and fostering community ties will be remembered fondly by many.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ah Sing Ko and Ngan Oy Chin; his sisters, Nui Yung and Daisy; and his brothers, George and Roger.

Jimmy is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Josephine Chu; his sons, Jason, Jeffrey, and Jeremy; his daughters-in-law, Larissa, Katie, and Kelly; and his cherished grandchildren, Henry, Evelyn, Alexander, Thomas, Adeline, Joie, Olivia, and Sophia. He also leaves behind his siblings, Annie, Rich, and Johnny, who will miss him dearly.

Jimmy Chu's legacy is one of love, commitment, and community. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends will be forever remembered by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held for Jimmy at Kriegshauser Mortuary-West Chapel, 9450 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132, on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The funeral service will be held at Kriegshauser Mortuary-West Chapel on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 11:00 am.

Committal service, including military honors, will follow at Bellerive Cemetery, 750 N. Mason Rd., St. Louis, MO 63141.

Your presence at the memorial services means a lot to the family, as they extend their deepest gratitude. If you wish to make a gesture, in lieu of flowers the family kindly asks you donate to the National Kidney Foundation in Jimmy’s memory. In his lifelong battle with kidney disease, he was passionate about supporting those affected by similar health challenges.

National Kidney Foundation – donations may be made online, through mail, or via phone:

https://www.kidney.org

Attn: Gift Processing at National Kidney Foundation HQ

30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016

212-889-2210