His love for his family spanned multiple continents and generations. Despite coming to America in 1949, he tirelessly maintained his close ties with his homeland of China. It was not uncommon to hear of Richard traveling back and forth for visits during the year. These trips were not only for himself, but also served to connect the two halves of his family in a way that only personal interactions can. Richard was the steadfast bridge, proof that his commitment to his family was of the utmost importance to him. His strength of character led him to take on various family roles throughout his life. He was an affectionate husband to a wonderful woman and father to multiple cocker spaniels (for which he always had a special fondness). As an uncle and a grandfather, he was a dedicated mentor nurturing the growth and potential of future generations. As an older brother, he was a stern yet calm presence. He was equally as generous with his time as he was with his love and was always thinking of others.
The generosity he was known for even made waves in his academic life. Over his almost 40-year long teaching and research career, he was a respected name in the field of fluid mechanics. The highly recommended textbooks he authored shaped classroom discussions and the educations of countless students who shared his same curiosity and interest. He was forever grateful to the University of Illinois for providing him the opportunity to pursue his graduate studies in Civil Engineering when he first came to America. He strongly believed in the value of education and so he founded several scholarship funds at different higher education institutions that have assisted many young minds in their own educational pursuits.
Richard is remembered for always looking for ways to help without ever expecting anything in return. He made himself a fulfilling life full of international travel adventures and people who treasured him. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Miranda Pao. He is survived by his sister, FuMei Bao, three brothers; XianHong Bao, Charles Pao, XianCheng Bao, several nieces and nephews, and friends. He will be truly missed by family and friends, especially by his niece Le-Yong Bao and grand-niece Ashley Meng .
A private burial will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Richard H. Pao CEE Visionary Scholarship Fund under the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Department of CEE.
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