Ron CHEN

CHEN, Ron Ron Chen, a Taiwanese entrepreneur, educator, and advocate for social justice passed away on March 22, 2024 at the age of 87. Born in Puzi, Chiayi County, Taiwan in 1937, Ron leaves behind a legacy of activism, academia, and entrepreneurship. He will be remembered for his strong sense of purpose, passion for giving back to others, longstanding commitment to teaching, and love for his family and the United States of America.

Ron emerged as a prominent global voice for Taiwanese independence, leading the charge in the United States as the Overseas Liaison Officer of the World United Formosans for Independence. His role as Associate Editor of The Independent Formosan and his translation of George Kerr's seminal work, Formosa Betrayed, into Chinese (1973), marked him as a key figure in Taiwanese history. Despite being banned, the translated book became a bestseller, shaping public discourse and galvanizing support for the cause of Taiwanese independence.

Moreover, Ron's authorship of significant works, such as "What I know about the April 24th Incident" (2015) and "The Inside Story of the April 24th Assassination Attempt Made Public Again" (2018) shed light on pivotal events in Taiwanese history, discussing the attempted assassination of Chiang Ching-kuo, Chiang Kai-shek's son and heir, in New York City, demonstrating Ron's unwavering commitment to truth and justice. He also played a pivotal role in various student groups, appearing on radio and television shows to advocate for change. Ron was a confidant of Taiwan's former president, Lee Teng-Hui, who oversaw the end of martial law and the full democratization of Taiwan, advocated the Taiwanese localization movement, and led an ambitious foreign policy agenda to gain allies around the world.

With a degree from the Judicial Section of the Law Department of National Taiwan University and a master's degree from the Institute of Political Science at the University of Oklahoma, Ron possessed an innate talent for storytelling. This gift propelled him into a revered position as a professor of political science at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Alongside his beloved wife of 55 years, Fu-mei Chen, Ron co-founded the Brass House, a wholesaler of brassware and giftware, where his Southern-inspired creations brought joy to countless tourists, even far from the bustling streets of The French Quarter.

Ron is survived by his wife, Fu-mei Chen; and his children, Sonya van der Meer, Peter van der Meer, Tonya Chen Mezrich, Ben Mezrich, Oliver Chen, John Bult, and Patricia Chen; and his four grandchildren, Penelope, Tristan, Asher and Arya.

So, whether he was spearheading revolutions, captivating students with his stories, or spreading joy with his unique creations, Ron Chen proved that passion, humor, and leadership can drive lives forward. His legacy as a masterful storyteller, revolutionary and purveyor of smiles will forever be cherished.

Ron Chen will be laid to rest in Newton, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the World United Formosans for Independence (WUFI, PO Box 1239, Belmont, CA 94002-6239, In memory of Ron Chen).