Jack Hoi Kan Lam

Born in Ningpo, China in 1932 to King-Pu Lin and A-Xiu Zhu, he lived an amazing life that took him around the world until finally settling down in Falls Church, VA. As a young boy, he experienced firsthand the occupation of China that ultimately resulted in him leaving China for Hong Kong. There he met Mai-Yip (Grace) Wang, his wife for over 50 years. Jack eventually joined the merchant marine and loved to tell his family of his travels to Europe and the United States, where he eventually immigrated and called home for close to 60 years.

Starting out as a home caretaker in New York City, he worked his way up to become a successful businessman owning 3 highly acclaimed restaurants in Northern Virginia where they were consistently on the Top 100 List for restaurants in the Washingtonian. He enjoyed talking with his customers, could remember their names, favorite dishes, and was constantly walking around the floor talking to as many of them as he could.

Jack loved cooking and, during his free time, he could be found dispensing cooking advice to his family or with his sleeves rolled up, he would spend countless hours slicing, seasoning, tasting, and adjusting the recipes until everything was perfect. He was known for his hard work, wit, compassion, and loyalty to his family and friends. Over the years, he sponsored and supported over a dozen relatives and friends in obtaining their US Citizenship and their dreams of a better life.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, King-Pu Lin and A-Xiu Zhu. He is survived by his wife Grace, his daughter Alice and Son-In-Law Jeff and grandchildren Christie, Christal, and Justin; his son Bobby and Daughter-In-Law Jean and grandchildren Tyler and Cara; his daughter, Susie and Son-In Law David and grandchildren Emma and Eric; his daughter Mary and Son-In-Law Earl and grandson Parker; and his daughter Ann and Son-In-Law Ryan and grandsons Brandon, Steven, and Adam; his siblings Hoi Cheung Lam (brother), Man Kam Lam (sister), Man Chu Sang (sister), Hai Qiang Lin (brother), and Hoi Man Lam (brother).

Due to impacts from COVID-19, the family will hold a small private service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association at http://act.alz.org/goto/jack_lam