Kuo Hsiung Chien

Kuo-Hsiung Chien passed away at home surrounded by his family after an arduous battle with cancer. He left the world far too soon but is now able to find peace. Kuo, also known as Mario or “Super Mario” by his family and friends was born in Keelung, Taiwan on December 15, 1951 to Wan-Tze Chien and A-Chu Chien.

Growing up in Taiwan, Kuo worked in his father’s jewelry business. He and his family moved to the U.S. in 1982, where he and his brothers began a real estate management company which included “The Chalet” apartments in East Lansing. He was an avid collector of artwork, antiques and wine, but his main passion was collecting snuff bottles. Kuo was a quiet man, but would become enthusiastic talking about his passions and wanting to share with anyone who was interested. In his later years, he spent and enjoyed much of his time, day trading. He also loved tending to his orchids, spending time in the garden, doing puzzles, and watching college sports. He was kind and generous to a fault.

Kuo is survived by his wife, Shu; his daughters, Iris, Ellen (Chris) and Gloria (Evan); his granddaughters, Mochi, Petch and Melly. He is also survived by his sister, Li-Hua; his brothers, Henry and Ben; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his favorite chihuahua, Stella and his nephew, Wilson.

A private viewing will be held for his family to say goodbye.