Willis W. Yu

Willis W. Yu, 34, a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, friend and resident of Houston, Texas unexpectedly passed away on Monday December 14, 2020.

He was born in Evansville, IN on November 5, 1986, to TJ and Lisa Yu. A graduate of North High School in 2005, Willis studied Food Science at Purdue University, joining Kraft Foods as a Food Scientist in Westchester, New York. He called multiple places home, as he would later go on to live in Chicago, IL; Madison, WI; and most recently Houston, TX.

Willis married his best friend, Han Cun, in 2015 in Chicago, IL. They spent 12 years together, at times separated by distance, but always connected through their love. In 2015, they moved to Madison, WI, where they spent four years as Han completed her medical residency. They then relocated to Houston, TX where Willis worked as a Senior Food Scientist at Schwan’s Foods and Han pursued subspecialty training.

Willis had an infectious personality and could connect with anyone he crossed paths with. More importantly, he had a kind and compassionate heart, always going the extra mile for his friends and family. He had a sincere interest in understanding the people he met. He had a passion for food and cooking that he shared with others; the extravagant dinner parties he and his wife hosted will be missed dearly by friends. He had a creative soul, expressing himself and his values through art. He and Han decorated their home together with his artwork, which he often gifted to his friends. He was motivated by his curiosity, avidly pursuing interests and hobbies throughout his life, ranging from wood working, mushroom foraging, to running a spontaneous half-marathon. He also loved to travel and longed for his next adventure, when he could stargaze in the most remote areas. He brightened the room with his sarcasm and quick wit. Willis made an indelible impact on his family and friends. He will be most remembered for the happiness he brought in others.

Willis is survived by his wife, Han; his parents TJ and Lisa; brother, William; 4 brother and sister-in-laws; 2 nephews; and his beloved dog Dimsum.

Recent events prompted his interest in America’s racial history. Through his reading on the subject, Willis strengthened his commitment to social justice. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to a memorial fund to the American Civil Liberties Union in Willis Yu’s name at (gofundme.com/f/willis-fund).

A private visitation is planned at Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services on Saturday, December 19, 2020. A celebration of life is expected for a later date in Evansville, IN, and will allow the many people whose lives he brightened to memorialize his life.