Gregory Chin

Greg was a brilliant, kind, generous man filled with energy and kindness and loved by so many. When Greg was seven years old, his family moved to the United States and settled in New Jersey. He enjoyed a rich childhood filled with a few close friends and countless books which would comfort him throughout his life. He was known for his brilliance, humility, kindness, and smile. Greg's never-ending curiosity and intellect brought him to Yale, where he received a B.A. in Ethics, Politics, and Economics, with distinction. His next adventure brought him to Japan, where Greg fell in love with his host family and spent some of his best days soaking up the Japanese culture, making social connections, and embracing his love of the language. He often spoke of his Dad's visit to Japan and how much he adored sharing it with him. Greg taught English there and eventually worked in business development at a Japanese corporation. Native speakers were continually shocked by his fluency, tone, and understanding of the language, but Greg remained humble after all he had achieved. But, if you asked Greg his most significant accomplishment there, he'd probably tell you it was when he started dreaming in Japanese.

Eventually, Greg found his way back to the United States and graduated from Harvard Law School with his J.D., cum laude.

He then spent most of his career in Silicon Valley at prestigious law firms, including Wilson Sonsini Goodrich Rosati and Jones Day. There were too many all-nighters and piles of work, but also countless successes and endless accolades from clients and colleagues who valued his insight, professionalism, legal expertise, an unbeatable work ethic, and a charming disposition that made deal negotiations pleasant while he still fiercely represented his clients. Greg eventually moved to Arizona and worked remotely for Mintz Levin and Duane Morris.

Finally, and most importantly to Greg, it was the beginning of these years in California when he met the love of his life Samantha, with whom he married and had three beautiful children, who forever changed his life and path. And while Samantha and Greg eventually divorced, they marched forward through the best and worst of times as a family. His favorite moments were with his children: late-night talks with Zoe, library trips and reading with Ruby, jaunts to the aquarium, bowling night, and reading comics with Izzy, family dinners, movies, and holidays. Greg's birthday celebrations were a highlight because he received his most valued possessions - heartfelt cards and homemade gifts from his children, which he spread across every inch of his apartment. His family was his most valued treasure, and he felt their love always.

When Greg was asked how he was doing, he'd always reply he was "livin' the dream." And he was, for quite some time. His friends and family will tell you he walked the world with smiles for everyone and kindness too few possess. He would put you at ease, cheer on your successes, and lift you up. And while Greg was not a master at keeping in touch, his friends knew how much he cared, and they adored him.

Greg leaves behind his best friend and ex-wife, Samantha, and their three beautiful children, Zoe (17 years old), Ruby (15 years old), and Izzy (10 years old). He is also survived by his mother, Sandra Chin, who was always in Greg's heart; his sister, Bernadine Zissu, who Greg treasured beyond words; and Bernadine's husband, Stuart Zissu, and their two children, Sean and Justin Zissu.