Obituary of Fong Hwa Chen-Tsai

Fong-Hwa Chen (née Tsai) was born in Manila, Philippines while her father served as a Chinese diplomat to the Philippines. She was the first of her parents’ seven children, so leadership and good judgement came naturally for her. She later made her homes in China, Taiwan, and the United States. She passed away peacefully at age 95 in Basking Ridge. We remember Fong-Hwa as the beloved center of her extended family, a generous friend, and a trailblazer for women in executive roles. Her early life coincided with tumult in China (Second Sino-Japanese war, 1937-1945), during which she and her family were forced to flee from Shanghai to Sichuan province over a several-month journey that was often perilous. This experience profoundly affected Fong-Hwa, who learned to treasure safety and peace. She married Shao-Pong Chen in 1947, and they sailed to Taiwan in 1948. Their happy partnership served as a model for their two children and many friends. Because Fong-Hwa was always willing to listen and help, relatives from both her side and Shao-Pong’s side viewed her as a trusted advisor. Although women of her generation rarely worked outside the home, Fong-Hwa worked throughout her adult life and enjoyed a successful career. She devoted 31 years to the Taiwanese branch of the Zurich Insurance company, where she ultimately rose to the level of vice president and chief financial officer. She also served on the boards of the local YWCA and Zonta International chapters. After retirement, Fong-Hwa enjoyed travel, cooking for her family, and keeping up with world news (she loved reading her newspaper from front-to-back every day!). She and Shao-Pong re-located to the U.S. in 1995 to be closer to their children. Fong-Hwa is survived by her children Virginia & Frank Shu, Wei-Yin William & Tsuei-Ju Tracy Chen; grandchildren Aimee Shu & Tarek El-Sawy, Beatrice Shu & Jonathan Regenstein; five great-grandchildren (Finn, Olivia, Keane, Roxanne, & Eloisa); and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Shao-Pong. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.