In Memoriam Professor of Entomology Chih-Ming Yin, an emeritus Professor of Entomology, died from a major stroke to his lower brain on April 5, 2008 in Los Angeles, CA. He was a renowned insect physiologist and endocrinologist who published over 115 articles in refereed journals. He collaborated with colleagues in his department, and with scientists all over the world, on topics ranging from forensic entomology to the study of habanero peppers. Chih was passionate about his work, and took well-deserved pride in his scientific accomplishments. He was also a devoted teacher and a beloved mentor, especially to his many graduate students. Born on July 2, 1943, in Zhejiang, China, Chih was raised in Taiwan. He studied Entomology at the National Taiwan University, and there met his future wife, Lucy (Ru-Siu). Upon graduation, he emigrated to North America where he continued his studies at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada. Chih and Lucy were married in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 1968. Chih later worked at the University of Missouri, and then at Cornell University. The Yins eventually settled in Amherst, where Chih became a Professor of Entomology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for almost 30 years. He was an active lecturer and researcher at UMass. His courses included such topics as Insect Physiology, Forensic Entomology, and Beekeeping. Chih also applied his scientific mind to his work in the kitchen, concocting many original delights for family and friends. He loved to entertain and tell jokes and stories and was a gracious host. He was much loved by many friends and colleagues in the Amherst area. Chih retired in 2003 after suffering a nearly fatal stroke. He astonished his doctors and therapists with his determination to survive and recover. On March 5, 2004, a retirement party was held at UMass Amherst for Chih (please see photos below), and everyone was overjoyed to see him able to walk in. While he never fully rebounded enough to return to the work he loved, he bravely rallied to spend time with his loving family. The Yins moved to Collegeville, PA to be near relatives after Chih's stroke. During his final years, Chih was still able to enjoy his interests in gardening, fine cooking, Chinese antiques, basketball, and calligraphy, and to delight in his two grandchildren. Members of the Department of Plant, Soil & Insect Sciences, especially those from the former Entomology Department, bid farewell to Chih with special fondness. His many friends and colleagues in the department, and throughout the campus as well, will remember him for his passion as a scientist, devotion to his profession, his team spirit, and his unshakeably positive attidude towards everyone and everything. He was a good and gracious friend to all, and will be dearly missed. Chih was also a very proud "family man." He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Lucy; his sister, Jeannette Moh; his three children, Amy, Melinda, and Felix; his two grandchildren, Maggie and Benji, and four nieces, eight nephews, two grandnieces and three grandnephews. Donations may be made in Chih-Ming Yin's memory to the American Stroke Association (http://honor.americanheart.org/goto/yin). Condolences to Lucy and the Yin family can be sent to: Please enjoy the photos of Chih-Ming Yin below
Chih socializing at his retirement party in March 2004
Lucy Yin & Chih-Ming Yin with colleague Roy Van Driesche |
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