Dr. Chao-Huei Jeffrey Wang

Born on May 22, 1943 in Tainan, Taiwan, Wang’s undergraduate studies took place at National Cheng Kung University (Tainan) He immigrated to the United States in 1968 to pursue a Master ‘s degree in organic chemistry at University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE. After receiving it in 1970 he continued on to receive a P.H.D. in organic chemistry as well.

In 1973, Wang moved to Amherst MA to do post doctoral at Amherst College with Dr. Alan Waggoner. He developed fluorescent dyes intended for optical probes of membrane potential. This work led to an opportunity at Abbott Laboratories in 1977 as a fluorescent dye chemist. Wang later worked in the Abbott diagnostics division as part of the team that developed TDx. The system measured therapeutic drug used in the treatment of different diseases.

In 1982, Wang partnered with Dr. David Kelso and Dr. Mick Jolley to start Pandex Labs. Dr. Wang served as Director of Research and Development. Pandex developed products and diagnostic instrumentation for use in biomedical industry. In 1986, Pandex was acquired by Baxter. Wang continued on to lead the division’s research efforts as the Director of Chemistry.

In 1992, Wang started Spherotech a biomedical manufacturer of microparticles with three employees. In the early years 12 hour days were not unusual for Wang to keep up with customers on both coasts. Today, Spherotech’s products are used around the world in flow cytometry, biomedical research and diagnostic testing.

Outside of the laboratory, Wang was an avid golfer and loved to travel. As a Taiwanese American he was a passionate supporter of charities and causes related to Taiwan and its people. He did not want his life measured by his personal accomplishments, numerous patents, or finances. Wang felt the resume of his life was the success of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He wanted to be remembered for how he treated his family, friends and employees.

Jeff was the beloved husband of Hsing-Huei Cindy, nee Huang for 37 years; loving father of Andrew (MaryJane) Wang of Solon, OH and Amy Wang (Derick) Douglas of Highland Park, IL; cherished grandfather of Alex Jeffrey Wang, Jacob Buchanon Wang, David Joseph Wang and Quinn Yen Douglas; devoted son of the late Yuan Yen Wang and Chin Kin Wang, nee Wu; dearest brother of Po Tien Wang Seattle, WA, Fu Huan Lee and Pao Chao Lee, both of Taipei, Taiwan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Global Education Fund, PO Box 8236, Rolling Meadows IL 60008, 847-202-4940. www.global-education-fund.org or the Highland Park Public Library – Chao Huei J Wang Endowment Fund, for science and architecture books/resources, c/o Jane Conway, Director, 494 Laurel Ave., Highland Park, IL 60035. Arrangements under the direction of Marsh Funeral Home, 847-336-0127