Katherine C. Yee

Katherine C. Yee, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and businesswoman passed away peacefully at home on July 15, 2025. As a Red Cross worker in Kunming, China during the Second World War, Katherine met her future husband, William (Bill). Following V-J Day, Katherine and Bill married in Shanghai, China. Katherine accompanied Bill to the US as a war bride and, thus, began a 65 year union of love, dedication and accomplishment. They began with $150 of Bill's military back-pay and each worked a succession on entry level jobs until they were able to start a small business crafting and selling replica Asian miniature trees in 1949. During the following 2 decades, they began importing and expanded into silk and beaded flower arrangements. Their wares were sold in virtually all the national department stores. Katherine and Bill were amongst the first American business people to dialog with delegates in China which led to the eventual opening of trade between the countries. Bill was the artist and Katherine the engine of Bill Yee Associates which imported a wide range of artware and crafts. Together, their drive and creativity forged a thriving business that enabled them to accomplish their "impossible dreams" of success and prosperity. In retirement, Katherine and Bill traveled extensively and relished their time with grandchildren until Bill passed away in 2012. Katherine remained active in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Brian; daughter, Christina and husband, Lou; four grandchildren Rory, Bryn, Brian Michael, and Christopher along with their respective spouses. She was blessed with 7 great grandchildren. The celebration of her life will be held at St. Gabriel's Church in Saddle River July 19, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Katherine C. Yee to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org).