Yulin Ruan

Yu Lin Ruan, age 64, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 13, 2026 after a courageous battle with colon cancer.

Born on June 22, 1962 in Guangdong, China to Shi Fang Ruan & Nang Ying Lee, Yu immigrated to the United States in 1989 and spent many years as a multifaceted chef at China Sky and Yuen BBQ in Dorchester, a role he held with pride until his diagnosis.

Yu built a life centered on his family, putting everyone else before himself and quietly carrying the weight of the household so those he loved never had to. His kindness extended far beyond his home – friends, neighbors, and coworkers all knew him as a generous man who gave freely of himself to anyone who needed it.

He will be remembered for his unwavering resilience, his boundless positivity, and his deep love for his family. Even through the hardest days of his illness, he never lost his gift for making the people around him feel cared for.

He is survived by Qiu Ming Tan, his loving wife of 36 years; his children, Michael Ruan, Joanne Ruan, and Alyssa Ruan; his daughter-in-law, Victoria Norkham; his grandson, Kobe Ruan; his three sisters and two brothers; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Yu’s life will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM at Deware Funeral Home, 576 Hancock St, Quincy, MA. Burial will take place in Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston, MA, following the service.