Herbert Chin

Herbert (Herb) Chin born to Louie Fung Ai and Fon (Dan) Chin, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025 in  Mercer Island, Washington. He was 96 years old.

Growing up in Seattle with his sister Neta, and brothers Henry, Jim and Frank, Herb was no stranger to Seattle’s International District. This is where he learned his sterling work ethic as a busboy and runner for his father’s taxi service.

At a young age, his first taste of entrepreneurship began when he rented out his bicycle at Seward park. As his grass-roots operation became popular, he reinvested his earnings by expanding the business and purchased additional bicycles, one at a time. Business was good and others noticed too. He was made an offer and he sold his first business.

Herb then went on to own multiple gas stations. At his Capitol Hill station he met Monica Hikida, a registered nurse at nearby Harborview Medical Center who happened to bring her car in for gas. A romance ensued and Herb married Monica, moving to South Seattle where he raised 6 children.

In 1960, Herb co-founded United Savings and Loan, the first Asian-owned bank in the U.S. The bank focused on securing property loans for Asian Americans, who at that time couldn’t get loans even with down payments of 30 to 40 percent. There were 4 branches; Chinatown, Beacon Hill, University (the Ave) branch and Jackson Park. He was the manager of the University branch for 23 years.

Together Herb and his brother Frank built an A-frame cabin from the ground up at Hyak ski resort, spending countless weekends working towards their dream goal. This is where Herb shared his love for skiing with family and friends. He was an excellent skier and ski instructor at Hyak for many years. The “Face” at Hyak was not the only challenging mountain he conquered. He squeezed in ski trips to Europe where he skied every major mountain.

After retiring from United Savings and Loan at the age of 55, he picked up the game of golf. Jefferson Golf Course became his second home as he continued to learn and excel at the game. His love of the sport continued when he moved to Newcastle, WA where he was a fixture at the driving range and course. In 2004, Herb achieved a “hole in one” on the Maplewood Golf Course in Renton.

Motorcycles were another passion for Herb. In addition to daily local rides, he took on much longer rides such as a ride from Seattle to California and back on his Harley Davidson while in his golden years. For Herb and fellow family members who also rode motorcycles alongside him, this was a thrill like no other.

His love and legacy continues through his wife Monica of 69 years and children; Karen (Sil), Jeff (Diane), Kristine (Frank), Doug (Lander), Karol (Russell), Karla (Blanca), grandchildren, Samantha (Mike), Connor, Ryan, Kim, Claire (Zen), Erin, Justin, Jessica (Christian), siblings, Frank, Neta and many nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held. Contributions in his memory can be made to Kin On Nursing Home.

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Services Lake View -