Zhong Chen

Zhong Xian Chen, age 93, of Saint Louis, Missouri passed away on Thursday, November 11, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. Zhong was born September 19, 1928 to Dian Ping Chen and Zhou Di Li in Guanghai Town, Taishan City, Guangdong Province, China.

Known by everyone in his village for his diligence and hard-working attitude, Zhong succeeded as a farmer in his early years to provide not only for his four siblings, but also his friends. From growing crops to selling them at the markets, Zhong labored endlessly to ensure that his loved ones were taken care of. Soon Zhong developed a reputation for his generosity and dependability; traits that he would make sure to pass down to his children and grandchildren.

In 1985, Zhong emigrated from China to the United States with his wife and children in the hopes of breaking out of poverty and giving his family and future grandchildren an opportunity at a better life. After arriving in the United States, Zhong applied his work ethic to the restaurant business and dedicated himself to working long hours. Driven by his ambition and strong will, Zhong was able to give his family a good start into their new lives. Years later, he retired due to his age and body being exhausted from overworking.

Post retirement, Zhong enjoyed many hobbies. He never gave up his love for farming so he started a vegetable garden in the backyard (resulting in a large abundance of vegetables that his family could never eat all of). Staying active was important to him as well. Early in the mornings, Zhong could be found outside practicing Tai Chi in the backyard. In the evenings, he enjoyed leisurely walks throughout the neighborhood; he became known as the sweet, adorable, elderly man who loved to wave and smile to neighbors as he passed by. He also could never turn down some delicious vanilla ice cream. Above all, his absolute favorite hobby was raising his grandchildren and going everywhere with them - he walked them to school (while making them recite multiplication tables in Cantonese), took them on trips to the supermarket, and spent every ounce of energy he could to ensure they knew they were loved and cared for. If there is one thing to remember Zhong by, it’s that he had a heart of gold and deeply loved his family and friends - he did everything he could for them and more.

Zhong is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Wai Sheng Fung; their two children: Su Ling (Vun Thou) Wong and Jing Wei (Rui Ping) Chen; six grandchildren: Stephen (Alison) Chen, Jennifer Chen, Leslie Wong, Lucinda Chen, Kevin Wong, and Maxwell Wong; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Dian Ping Chen and Zhou Di Li and his siblings Zhong Duo, Jing Fang, Ke Jia, and Ke Hui.

A visitation for Zhong will be held Saturday, November 20, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Kriegshauser Mortuary-West Chapel, 9450 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132. A funeral service will occur Sunday, November 21, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 9450 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132. A committal service will occur Sunday, November 21, 2021 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Bellerive Heritage Garden, 740 Mason Road, Creve Coeur, MO 63141.

Memorials may be directed to the Gladys & Henry Crown Center For Senior Living at crowncenterstl.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at kriegshausermortuary.com for the Chen family.