



1935
-
2025

In Loving Memory of Mr. Chung "Joe" Chi
March 10, 1935 – May 29, 2025
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mr. Chung Chi, lovingly known as "Joe," who peacefully transitioned from this world on the morning of May 29, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on March 10, 1935, Joe carried a name that echoed his Catholic faith, having been baptized as Joseph—a name that symbolized strength, kindness, and steadfast devotion to his loved ones.
A visionary and devoted family man, Joe courageously paved the way for his family’s future in the United States, embarking on a life-changing journey from Seoul, Korea. His story unfolded across the boroughs of Queens, New York, before leading him to the picturesque town of Branford, Connecticut, and finally settling in the Pacific Northwest, where he found a home in Kent and then Auburn, Washington. His dedication to creating a life of opportunity and stability for his family will forever be cherished.
Joe possessed a gentle soul, one guided by a deep desire for harmony and understanding. No matter the circumstance, he sought to bring peace to those around him, embodying patience and quiet strength in moments of conflict. His presence was a source of comfort, his wisdom a guiding light to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Together with his beloved wife, Kyung "Anna" Chi, Joe embraced the joys of exploration, enriching their lives with unforgettable journeys. They traveled across the sweeping landscapes of the Great Plains, traced the eastern seaboard from Connecticut to the tropical beauty of Key West, and embarked on cross-continental adventures, driving through Europe from Düsseldorf, Germany, to the historic grandeur of Rome, Italy. Their travels extended beyond the borders of the Western world, taking them to China, where they stood in awe atop the Great Wall and ventured to northwestern China in search of ancestral ties, retracing the paths taken by those who fled the Korean Peninsula during the Japanese Occupation. Every mile traveled was a testament to Joe’s unyielding curiosity and love for life’s boundless experiences.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Kyung "Anna" Chi; his loving children, Son, Young Ha Chi and daughter, Sunha Chi; four grandchildren, each a source of immense pride; four adult grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his later years. His happiest moments were spent surrounded by the warmth of his family and the company of dear friends.
Joe lived a life of fulfillment, love, and unwavering commitment to the people who mattered most. His legacy endures in the kindness he extended, the sacrifices he made, and the memories he gifted to those fortunate enough to share in his journey.
He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, loved him, and carry his memory forward.
Epilogue: A Farewell to Eternity
By his beloved wife
The last image lingers, floating softly in my mind.
It does not fade with midnight’s hush,
For tonight, the stars shine brighter than ever.
With wings shaped by hardship and joy,
He soared through the beauty of this earthly world,
A soul bound for distant horizons,
Where the stars open their arms and welcome him home.