David Ch'ing-hsi Hsiao passed away peacefully on August 17, 2013 in Seattle, WA. He was born on September 3, 1927 in Tientsin, China. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kung-ch'üan and Chih-yin. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 51 years, Martha; children, Carole, Joan (Jim), and David (Vivian); grandchildren; Jimmy, Peter, Liza and Ethan; sisters, Ch'ing-hwa Chen and Ann Hsiao; many loving extended family and friends.
He lived in Chengdu, China for much of his childhood. During wartime he and his family moved several times, finally relocating to Seattle, WA where he attended the University of Washington, graduating with a BA in Accounting in 1953. Shortly after graduation, he joined Tall's Camera Supply as an accountant. After a dozen years at Tall's Camera, Leonard Tall invited David to partner with him in forming CX Corporation, a photo finishing business they ran for 10 years until they sold it. Following his career at CX, Leonard and David formed Rainier Northwest Group, a real estate investment company that continues today. Leonard and David were colleagues and the closest of friends for nearly 50 years.
As a proud naturalized citizen in this country, David was always mindful of the generosity of others. He was himself a dedicated community servant. He served on the boards of: Bayview Manor, KCTS 9, Lakeside School, the Office of Public Defense, Pacific Science Center and Whitman College. He also actively supported the creation of the Northwest African American Museum. David advised numerous small businesses, particularly in the Asian community. To honor his father's legacy, he and Martha established the Dr. K.C. Hsiao Endowment in 1978 to support the academic pursuits of students in the China Studies program at the Jackson School at the UW.
When not pursuing his passions for business or serving the community, David enjoyed refining his talents in cooking and dining at new restaurants, particularly anything Chinese. David's primary focus was always his family and he could think of no more enjoyable pastime than spending a relaxing weekend up at the family beach house on Whidbey Island for crabbing, fishing, and clamming.
A public memorial service will be held at 2PM on September 15, 2013 at Horizon House: 900 University Street, Seattle, WA 98101. Phone: 206-624-3700
A private family service was held at David's final place of rest at Acacia Memorial Park, Seattle, WA.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in David's memory to the "Dr. K.C. Hsiao Fellowship in Chinese Studies" 1-877-UW-GIFTS or online at https://www.washington.edu/giving/make-a-gift/?page=funds&source_typ=3&source=HSIAOD or to a charity of your choice.
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