Vincent L. Wu

Vincent L. Wu, Sr. passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024, at the age of 90 in his East Hanover, N.J. home. With a lifelong passion for Romance languages and music, Vincent left a profound legacy as an educator, performer, and advocate for East-West cultural exchange.

Vincent was a son of Dr. John Ching Hsiung Wu, distinguished diplomat and legal scholar who served as the Chinese Minister to the Vatican. Vincent was exposed to the world of music early on. Influenced by legendary tenor Beniamino Gigli during his family's time in Rome, Vincent's love for languages and music blossomed.

Moving to the United States in 1949, Vincent graduated from Saint Louis High School in Honolulu, pursued studies at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, and settled in New Jersey in 1951. His exceptional linguistic abilities, including fluency in seven languages, enabled him to earn a degree in Modern Languages and Communication from Seton Hall University. He dedicated 34 years to teaching French initially at Holy Trinity High School Westfield, and later at Colonia Senior High School, where he pioneered the im-plementation of Mandarin language programs with Dr. Don Geddis.

In addition to his teaching career, Vincent also did social work for the Occupational Center of Union County and The NJ Commission of Rehabilitation. Vincent's musical talents graced numerous prominent venues in New York City and beyond. He tirelessly promoted cultural exchange through his performances and involvement with organizations like the Sino-American Amity Club. Vincent's devotion to Catholicism infused his charitable endeavors, and his love for gardening and cooking brought joy to his family and com-munity.

Vincent is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia L. (Smith), six children-Vincent Jr. (Ma-ria), Cynthia (Warren), Nancy (Robert), Thomas, Gregory (Kristin), and Regina (Dennis)-16 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a brother, John Wu Jr., and three sisters: Margaret Ho, Therese Liu, and Lucy Gilbart. He is predeceased by a sister, Agnes Wu, and seven brothers: Thomas, Edward, Theodore, Bosco, Francis, Rev. Peter, and Stephen Wu.

Vincent's impact on education, music, and cultural exchange will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Mass was held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at St. Rose of Lima RC Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover under the direction of Hancliffe Home for Funerals. Donations to St. Rose of Lima RC Church are be appreciated in lieu of flowers.