Elizabeth Chu

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Chan Chu on Saturday, the 13th of May 2023. Elizabeth was born in Hong Kong on December 22, 1955 to Michael and Rebecca Chan. She was the eldest of four children, the only daughter, with brothers Anthony, Edward, and Thomas. At the age of 16, Elizabeth moved from Hong Kong to the United States to obtain her college education. Elizabeth earned a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Institution Management from Oregon State University, completed her Dietetic Internship at Peter Brent Brigham Hospital at Harvard Medical Center, and then earned a Master of Science in Nutrition Education from Boston University, beginning an illustrious career following her passion for dietetics, nutrition, and education.

During her internship, Elizabeth met Hong Chu; they were married on September 30th, 1978. The couple moved to San Diego, CA in 1982, going on to have two daughters: Caroline and Tiffany.

Elizabeth began her career as a critical care dietician at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Boston, MA and continued to gain experience at different hospitals including Tri City Medical Center and Scripps Green Hospital in San Diego, CA. She then started her career in higher education at San Diego Mesa College where she held many roles, including Professor of Nutrition, Department Chair of Consumer Family Studies, Abroad Coordinator, Director of Dietary Service Supervisor Program, and, lastly, the Steering Committee member and instructor of Stem Engagement for the Enrichment of Diverse Students Program. After almost 30 years of inspiring the next generation of dieticians at San Diego Mesa College, Elizabeth retired in 2019.

As an educator, Elizabeth put her all into her students, providing guidance and mentorship throughout their journey. Even after their graduation, many of Elizabeth’s students wrote to thank her for how her holistic approach, human kindness, and empathy continue to impact them.

Elizabeth was passionate about equal opportunities for all people and valued diversity among ethnicities and gender. As an immigrant, she took pride in her American citizenship, fighting for human rights at the ballot box.

Outside of her work, Elizabeth enjoyed cooking for her family, always trying and perfecting new recipes. She enjoyed exploring new places while traveling the world with her husband and daughters. In addition to their adventures abroad, she would commemorate important events and family accomplishments with a scrapbook. Elizabeth had a joy of reading and puzzles, specifically mystery novels and sudoku. After her daughters left for college, Elizabeth was an avid Zumba participant, forming a lifelong community of friends. Elizabeth also found a fondness for creating Japanese flower arrangements, receiving a certificate from the Ohara School of Ikebana.

Elizabeth was predeceased by her mother. She is survived by her father, three brothers, husband, and two daughters.

A memorial service is scheduled for 9 am on June 19, 2023 at Funeraria del Angel University, 7 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85705. This service will also be live streamed, for details, please connect with Caroline or Tiffany. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the CA Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as part of the Elizabeth C. Chu Memorial Scholarship.

Please send checks with a note of “In memory of Elizabeth C Chu” to:

California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation

35221 John Albert Drive Madera CA 93636

You can also donate directly via PayPal at www.paypal.me/CAAcademyFoundation or @CAacademyfoundation with a message stating “In memory of Elizabeth C Chu”

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.funerariadelangeltucson.com for the Chu family.