Percy Lawrence Chu

Devoted husband, dad, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away on July 4, 2015. Percy, a San Francisco native, was born on August 30, 1927 to Wong Shee and Chung Tip Gee. Percy was the youngest of six children. Percy was predeceased by his parents, son Jay Michael, siblings Ann, Lincoln, Alfred and Ida.

Percy attended Jean Parker and Commodore Stockton Elementary Schools, Francisco Middle School, Washington High School, and San Francisco City College. After attending just one year at City College, San Francisco, Percy was drafted into the United States Army in 1945. In 1950, after being honorably discharged from the Army, Percy began a career with the United States Postal Service.

On July 27, 1952, Percy began what was to become a long association with San Francisco's Recreation and Park Department. No one could have imagined that by answering a call for provisional part-time directors, that Percy would devote more than fifty-two years to this "second career." Most of his time was spent at this second home, the Betty Ann Ong Chinese Recreation Center. In this capacity, Percy was also a coach to hundreds of San Francisco Saints basketball players. He was a father figure, a mentor and a strong, sturdy backbone to lean on. For nearly 40 years as a steadfast coach and player – he led the "Saints" basketball teams on national and international tours including two trips to China, Seattle, Boston, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. He touched and affected lives in a deep and memorable fashion. He taught young people to do things the right way, with passion, an eye for detail and a sense of purpose.

Percy leaves behind his wife Jean, the love of his life, whom he married in 1955; children Stacy (Bill), Dana (Charles), and Derek (Angela); grandchildren Matthew and Bradley (Lucia) Joe, Chelsea and Alexa Wong, Sander and Skyler Chu, Sister Jessie, many nephews and nieces and dear friends.

Percy loved the skills and the mental toughness which was basketball, a good steamy-hot bowl of pei-dan "jook", Monday Group luncheons, Seinfeld, and written correspondence. The internet and texting were his nemeses! Most of all, he loved his grandchildren.

The family will gather for a celebration of Percy's life. Donations in Percy's memory may be made to: St. Mary's Chinese Day School, 838 Kearny St., San Francisco, CA 94111