Emily Youjung UJ Cha

Emily Youjung "UJ" Cha, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, in Issaquah, Washington, after a valiant battle with breast cancer. Born in the coastal city of Busan, South Korea, on April 17, 1968, UJ's life was a portrait of passion and dedication, painted with the vibrant colors of love, spirituality, and service.

UJ's early life in Busan laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth. She carried the spirit of her homeland within her heart as she ventured out into the world, moving to America with her family at age 10. Her academic pursuits led her to achieve a BA in Japanese Language and Literature, a testament to her love for culture and communication.

For 25 years, UJ's professional life was intertwined with REI, where she played a pivotal role in opening their first storefront in Japan and ushering the company into the digital era. Her expertise also enriched the seafood industry through her work as a fish broker with Pacific National and Mitsubishi, where she was respected for her integrity and professionalism.

Beyond her professional achievements, UJ's life was rooted in her Christian faith. She found solace and strength in her church and bible study groups, and she was a living example of the good word of God. Her commitment to her faith was evident in how she raised her two beloved sons, Oscar and Cooper, alongside her devoted husband, Albert. UJ's family, including her older brother Denys, younger sister Yang-He, and her parents Young Tak and Myong Tak, were the cornerstone of her existence. She is also survived by dozens of close friends who became an extended family for her.

UJ's interests reflected her zest for life and her love for her family. She found joy in the simple pleasures of cooking, cleaning, and dancing. She watched the entire catalog of online Korean drama shows and loved to dance and sing to her favorite K-Pop artists. She took great pleasure in helping her sons navigate their childhood and early adulthood. Through their participation in sports, she became a die-hard fan of the Seattle sports teams. Her presence was a source of comfort and happiness for her extended family and friends, and she had a unique ability to fill a room with laughter and warmth.

In the words of Helen Keller, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." UJ embodied this spirit, turning every moment into an adventure filled with faith and love. Her legacy is not only in the milestones she achieved but in the countless lives she touched with her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering spirit.

As we celebrate the life of UJ, we honor a woman who was faith-filled, courageous, and passionate. She was a guiding light and an inspiration to all who knew her. Her story does not end with her passing, for her spirit continues to resonate in the lives of those she loved and served.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable child of God, we find comfort in knowing that she has found peace in the loving embrace of her Creator. Her memory will remain a blessing to us all.

A "Celebration of Life" service will be held on February 21, 2026 at 11am at New Life Church located at 7718 NE 141st St, Kirkland, WA 98034.