Thomas Chin

Thomas (Tung Sill) Chin. (85) passed away peacefully on January 18th, 2024 with his beloved wife and daughter by his side. Predeceased by his father Fook Chin, mother Chun-Yell Chin, sister Bik Wan and her twin sister, sister Wanda Huey, sister Bik Sin Wong, sister-in-law Virginia Chin, and nephew Wilson Tam, he is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Yin Yuk, and brother Ying Chin. Father to Anita and William (Amy), grandfather to Madeline, Christopher, and Matthew, and uncle to numerous nephews and nieces.

Thomas was born on May 18th in Taishan, Guangdong, China. During World War II, Thomas remained in Taishan while his father served in the US Army. Shortly after World War II ended, he immigrated to the United States with his parents and siblings, settling in San Francisco, CA. After graduating from Galileo High School in 1955, Thomas remained in San Francisco where he attended City College before moving to Portland in the early 1960's. In Portland, he raised a family and owned and worked in several Chinese restaurants up until his retirement in 2010. He was also a member of the local Suey Sing Association.

Thomas was strong willed and stubborn at times, but he also had an enormous heart and was man of his word. He was generous, patient, and loyal. Though Portland was his home, Thomas truly did love everything about San Francisco, especially the sports teams that endeared him: the Forty-Niners, Warriors, and Giants. Tony Bennett’s signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”, reflects the love Thomas had for that city.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his intellectual curiosity, his love of different foods, and how he cheered the Bay Area teams when they played. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity and strength. His presence is very much missed by those who know and love him.

Visitation for Thomas will be held on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Zeller Chapel of Roses Funeral Home located at 2107 NE Broadway St., Portland, OR, 97232. A celebration of life will follow beginning at 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. (Interment will occur at 3 PM at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 11801 SE Mt. Scott Blvd, Portland, OR, 97086.)

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to local charity(s).