Cheng-Jyi Song

Dr. Cheng Jyi-Song was born on March 17, 1940 in Keelung, Taiwan. He was the second eldest of 12 siblings. Dr. Song or “JoJo” as most of his nephews and nieces would refer to him, excelled at academics his entire life where he received his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from the prestigious National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan. Seeking the American Dream, Cheng received a full scholarship to attend Wesleyan University in Connecticut and would later receive his Doctorate in Physics from Rutgers University in New Jersey. Upon receiving his doctorate, he moved to West Lafayette, Indiana to teach at Purdue University in the Physics department, where he developed his deep love for being a Boilermaker and encouraged those around him to also become Purdue fans. After teaching at Purdue, Dr. Song went on to have dual careers as a successful entrepreneur by co-owning Lakeview Healthcare Center in Carmel, Indiana with his business partner and best friend of over 50 years. In addition to running a nursing home, Dr. Song also worked for the State of Indiana for over 25 years as a Professional Engineer at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. After retirement, CJ traveled the world to visit friends, family, and former classmates. His favorite trips were to China, San Francisco, New Zealand, and Tibet. In addition to being a Purdue fan, he had a deep passion for watching the Indiana Pacers and NBA Basketball. "JoJo" loved the holidays and spent them with his nephews Doug (Sarah) Ding and Dennis (Kristin) Ding, who both referred to "JoJo" as being like their father. "JoJo" loved spending time with his great nephew Declan and great niece Olivia and taking them for rides in his red convertible. Cheng was a very humble man, but he helped numerous families and individuals over the course of his life. He was always willing to help a stranger or family when in need, without ever expecting anything in return. Cheng was very proud of the nephews and nieces that he leaves behind in Taiwan, Europe, and the United States, many of whom he helped encourage to seek a better life through hard work and education. He is beloved by his family and friends for his love, loyalty, and dedication and will be greatly missed by those who loved him. The family has designated The Dr. Cheng-Jyi Song Physics Fund at Purdue University for memorial contributions in his honor. Please make donations through the link below...