Tsaian Hsu

James Tsai-An Hsu, a beloved educator, brilliant researcher, devoted family man, and respected member of his community, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024 at the age of 77. Born on August 11, 1947 in Guangdong, China, "Jim" brought with him to the United States a spirit of determination and a special appreciation for the value of education.
Jim's journey to academic excellence began at National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan, where he completed his undergraduate studies. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to his field took him further, earning a master's degree from the University of Rhode Island and a doctorate from Northwestern University. His formidable intellect led to a distinguished career ranging from industry at G.D. Searle, Universal Oil Products, and Gulf Oil to government at the National Science Foundation, and finally to academics. For many decades, he was a professor of chemical engineering and director of the Biopharmaceutical Technology Institute at Lehigh University. He was a passionate teacher and inspired countless students and colleagues with his wisdom, creativity and generosity of spirit.
Jim derived great joy from good food, nature, National Parks, and especially music. He had a unique sense of humor and eye towards entrepreneurship. Jim was a true philosopher, always reflecting upon the world and its hidden variables. Influenced by his youth in the Seventh-day Adventist church, he held a strong moral compass that directed him in life and in raising his children.
Jim was a loving husband to his wife, Shuyu (Chang) Hsu, and a guiding light for his children, Peggy Ping Hsu and Allen Long Hsu, both of whom have been similarly committed to the pursuit of new ideas to benefit humankind. His legacy of love and curiosity is carried on through his granddaughter, Margaret Hsu Ryan, whom he adored. Jim's memory is cherished by his siblings, Emily C. Ho, Yeu-Lan Hsu, Der-Ann Hsu, and Huo-An Hsu, who remember him as a pillar of strength and kindness in their family. Though his parents, Jen-Lin Hsu and Sunyun Lee Hsu, preceded him in death, the values they instilled in him have left an indelible mark on the lives he touched. Jim will be missed deeply.
A visitation where family and friends are invited to pay their respects will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Sunday, January 5, 2025 also at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
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