Ron Chin was born in Los Angeles on Dec. 23, 1958, to Gene and Alma Chin. He became a big brother to sisters Colleen, Darlene and Marlene over the next 10 years. He attended Mt. Washington Elementary School and Eagle Rock Junior and Senior High Schools before going on to UCLA beginning in the mid-1970s, where he received his Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering and his Master of Science in mechanical engineering.
Ron always loved and excelled in academics, and he helped others with their school work. He would always be available to help his sisters with school when they were growing up, especially with math and science. He was a math tutor while at UCLA, employed by the school and was also a private tutor. His friends in engineering at UCLA would frequently ask Ron for his help in their classes, too.
While at UCLA, Ron also found his social niche in the Omega Sigma Tau fraternity where some of his longest friendships began. After college, he worked for Hughes Aircraft and Northrop Grumman.
While Ron’s life was filled with significant memories, some of his most treasured include: beating a highly ranked chess player at age 12 and receiving a $200 prize; dining with the great UCLA basketball coach John Wooden after winning a charity event raffle; playing in four volleyball leagues; and holding season tickets to UCLA football games at the Rose Bowl for 30 years.
Much of Ron’s life was devoted to church and family. He attended Evergreen Baptist Church and The Westside Vineyard, developing close friends — many who came to visit him at the hospital after he became ill.
Despite his tight schedule, he tried to fit in every family celebration. Over his last two decades, he welcomed brothers-in-law Colin and Gregg and nieces and nephews Keri, Trisha, Aaron and Trenton with open arms and much love.
Ever the generous son and brother, Ron had planned to take the family to Las Vegas the weekend that he passed away.
In 2012, the Ron Chin Memorial Scholarship was established to help a top college student. It was created with a $10,000 donation in the memory of Ron by his parents, former Scholarship Fund President Gene Chin and his wife Alma.