Richard Wu

Obituary
Dr. Richard Shaohai Wu passed away peacefully on June 10, 2023, in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by his family. Born on October 28, 1957, in Yueqing, China, Shaohai was a passionate, selfless, and faith-filled individual who strived to make a difference in the lives of those around him.
Shaohai is survived by Lynn Wu, his loving wife of 39 years; his two devoted daughters, Yiyang "Yaya" Wu and Christina Wu; and his cherished granddaughter, Lucia Wu Cheng. He was the beloved eldest of five siblings, Shaoqing Wu, Shaobo Wu, Shaojiang Wu, and Shaojie Wu. Throughout his life, Shaohai's dedication to his family was evident, as he instilled in them the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and empathy for others.
Shaohai was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. He courageously pursued big dreams and unprecedented opportunities to make a difference. He first studied at Fudan University in China, before moving to the United States in 1983. Shaohai earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Princeton University in 1988, and completed his post doctoral fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1989. From 1989 to 1996, he worked at the chemical company W.R. Grace. During that time, he founded the DC chapter of the Chinese Association of Science and Technology (CAST-DC), which remains active to this day.
In 1997, Shaohai moved to Shanghai, China to found IAESTE-China, an organization dedicated to providing international exchange and internship opportunities for students. During his tenure, Shaohai worked tirelessly to improve the lives of young people in China and around the world. He routinely lectured in Chinese universities on the import of creativity and innovation in childhood development. A lifelong educator and mentor, he cherished the relationships and mentorship opportunities he created through his work, leaving a lasting legacy on those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
Shaohai's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was deeply involved in leading his global Christian fellowship, 1155, and found great joy in studying Scripture and philosophy, writing and preaching, and challenging his brothers and sisters in Christ to think critically and rationally in pursuit of truth. Through his unwavering devotion to his faith and his keen intellect, Shaohai inspired and encouraged those around him, building a strong and supportive community. His dedication to his spiritual journey was evident not only in his own life but also in the lives of countless others he touched.
Shaohai was an avid global traveler, having visited nearly 30 countries for work and pleasure. He told anyone who asked that his favorite country was Norway, mostly because he was quite confident no one would be able to dispute it. However, Shaohai was just as happy at home as he was exploring new places. Shaohai found solace and inspiration in reading and writing; daily hikes with family, his dog, and grand-dog; and finding beauty in the mundane through his photography.
Shaohai was also a creative and innovative individual who enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen. He was known for his ability to invent new and delicious recipes, delighting friends and family with his culinary creations, then claiming that they were impossible to replicate (because he had forgotten how he made them). His love for cooking was yet another way he showed his care and affection for his loved ones, as he knew the joy that a shared meal could bring. His warmth and hospitality were unparalleled; all who had met him knew with certainty that they were welcome at his dining table.
Dr. Richard Shaohai Wu was–in the words of an old friend–an educator, an idealist, an organizer, and a thinker. His unwavering commitment to his family, community, and faith will forever be remembered and cherished by those who had the honor of knowing him. Shaohai's life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of kindness. May Dr. Richard Shaohai Wu's memory continue to inspire and uplift those he leaves behind, as we celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many.
Richard Shaohai Wu's memorial will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023. It will take place at Harry H. Witzke's Family Funeral Home, located at 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043. A viewing will commence at 9:30 AM, and a memorial service will begin at 11:00 AM. It is Shaohai's family's hope that Friday will be a time of celebration for this wonderful man's life. To honor his Chinese and American influences, attire in white or black is welcome.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kessler Foundation, which serves people with disabilities through rehabilitation research and integrated employment. Please feel empowered to "give in honor or in memory of" Richard Shaohai Wu.
The burial will take place at St. John's Cemetery and will be private.