Danny Kwan-yee Ho

A resident of Knoxville for 47 years, Danny Kwan-yee Ho passed away in his home at the age of 69. Born and raised in Hong Kong, he was the youngest of three children. In his youth, Mr. Ho helped support his family financially by working 2-3 jobs. Aiming for a better future, he saved money for his education and eventually immigrated to the United States in 1974 to enroll at the University of Tennessee where he majored in computer science. With his gentle humor and quick-witted quips, he befriended lifelong friends who would eventually share his home cooked dinner parties, laughter, and retirement adventures alongside him. Well known for his steadfast work ethic, Mr. Ho held an assortment of college jobs to afford tuition and carried this trait throughout life. While working at Happy Palace Restaurant, he met the love of his life Annie and married in 1978. As restaurant entrepreneurs, the couple extended their business into Gatlinburg and pioneered the first Chinese restaurant in the area, which tourists and locals fondly remember as North China. They began to build their family with their first child Allan followed by a daughter Jennifer. As a team, they went on to establish multiple restaurants with the final in Oak Ridge, TN. Lychee Garden was widely known for the extensive buffet, hot pots, and karaoke parties. To this day, many Oak Ridge natives and members of the Y-12 and ORNL community remember enjoying delicious meals at Lychee Garden with friends and loved ones. In 2001, Mr. Ho ventured into the beauty industry with the establishment of Annie’s Nail Spa. Well regarded for their impeccable service and attention to detail, the pair successfully built the business together over the next 20 years. In 2016, he assumed a new role—that of a doting and loving grandfather to twins Nolan and Dorothy. Mr. Ho retired in December 2020 and spent his time on a Happy Tour of the world with loved ones and precious close friends.

Mr. Ho was an exceptional husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was an analytical, gentle hearted soul with a knack for problem solving and mathematics. Often quoting Chinese philosophy as lessons to his children, he embodied profound wisdom and had a compassionate, honest heart that was quick to help those in need. He was adamant that people be treated equally and kindly regardless of status. To that end, he treated everyone with the utmost respect, politeness, and consideration. Friends knew him as the animal whisperer for his effortless comradery with animals. Mr. Ho poured love into his cooking. A naturally talented professional chef, he desired to connect with others through his home-made dishes. Mr. Ho’s elaborate seven course dinner parties soon became legendary among his friends and will forever be remembered. Mr. Ho also loved music and singing. From piano, drums, to the guitar, he had a strong affinity for music which he cultivated and learned throughout his retirement.

He will be forever remembered by his devoted wife Annie Ho; their two loving children Allan and Jennifer Ho; daughter-in-law Keiko Ho; caring siblings Vivian Cheung and Raymond Ho; sibling in-laws Susie Ho, Paul Wong, Jessica Liu, Judy Yu, David Yu; nieces and nephews Kimberly Cheung, Daisy and Jade Ho, Cynthie Doolin, Anthony Wong, Ashley Yu, Garrett Yu, Andrew Yu, and Emily Wong; and two grandchildren Nolan and Dorothy Ho, along with countless friends and family whose lives he touched. Friends and family are invited to attend his memorial service on Saturday October 16, 2021 at 3pm at Berry Highland Memorial Funeral Home, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Young Williams Animal Shelter to honor Danny’s deep love for animals. Afterwards, there will be a reception dinner held in his honor at 5pm at Hibachi Grill, 9645 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37922.

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