San Lang Fan

San Lang Fan peacefully passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Thursday, October 5, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. At the age of 82, San had valiantly battled dementia for the past 10 years. Although the disease eventually took his short-term memory, his gregarious and easy-going personality remained unwavering. He never allowed a communication barrier to hinder his ability to greet his neighbors warmly. Fluent in three languages, although English remained a lifelong pursuit, San's determination was ever-present.

San was born in Dahu (大湖鄉), Taiwan, a farming village most known for its bountiful strawberry harvests. Tragedy struck when his mother passed away when he was just 7 years old, prompting him to seek job opportunities in Taipei (臺北) as prospects were scarce in his rural village. The Dahu country boy swiftly adapted to urban life as he found work as an ice cream vendor in the famous Ximending (西門町) night market. His outgoing nature quickly endeared him to the community, earning him the trust of both shop owners and vendors. There was not a single shop owner or vendor who he did not genuinely know on a personal level. He skillfully transformed these relationships into an eventual thriving referral business. In 2003, during his retirement years, he relocated to the United States, where he spent his final two decades relishing the company of his seven beloved grandchildren. He often said that his most cherished legacy was his wonderful grandbabies.

San is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Ming Chu Hsu, his dear sister, affectionately known as "Goo Goo," his cherished sons Denny, Kim (Chung) and Sammy, Megan (Mahas) and grandchildren: Millie, Tyson, Riley, Eleanor, Austin, Gretel, and Bennett. In addition to his immediate family, San is also survived by three pups, Penny, Coco, and Leo, as well as numerous wonderful cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that you honor San's memory by embracing your own fathers and grandfathers with a heartfelt hug. San's legacy of love and warmth lives on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.