Obituary

Xiafu Liu passed away peacefully 2/8/2025, succumbing to the illness he fought bravely for several months. We are left with a staggering sense of loss and sadness that is a reflection of the great love we all shared.

He was born in a rural mountain village in China to a farming family. He had three sisters and three brothers. He excelled in the village school, becoming one of only three students selected to attend high school in the adjacent town. It was there that he met his future wife and lifelong partner Yue’e Wen. Continuing on to college in Xian, he graduated with an engineering degree, was employed at the aerospace manufacturing plant, and eventually became a director of engineering there. In Xian, Xiafu and his wife raised their four children. As China and its economy opened, two of his children would immigrate to the west and all of them would pursue private employment and business careers.

Xiafu’s quiet strength supported his family’s personal growth and provided them foundation and direction. He and Yue’e retired from successful careers and began a new chapter in life in the west, again supporting their family with their unique blend of love and parental gravitas. Xiafu’s gentle nature and care touched all his children, grandchildren, and extended family. Returning to his childhood farming roots, he grew amazing vegetable gardens in various locations and seasons, nourishing the family body and soul.

Grandfather Liu’s passing leaves an emptiness and longing in the hearts of all who knew him, bringing forth a love that will continue forever. He taught and led by example, expressed love in deeds, and supported all of us every step. Together, Grandfather and Grandmother Liu blazed a path from east to west creating a family foundation wherever they went, inspiring and living the inscription on the family monument:

Courageous and Strong the Root of our Forest an Eternal Home with Honor and Pride