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JIN CHUN Obituary

CHUN--Jin K., M.D. The Department of Surgery at the Mount Sinai Hospital and the Mount Sinai School of Medicine mourns the sudden and tragic death of our distinguished colleague and dear friend. A highly regarded and talented plastic surgeon, Dr. Chun proudly served the Department and the Hospital for over 20 years as the Chief of Microsurgery in the Division of Plastic Surgery. He was a recognized authority in complex reconstructive breast cancer surgery. His devotion to his patients and their quality of life was his passion. He excelled as a teacher and mentor to generations of plastic surgeons. We extend our sincere condolences to Dr. Chun's wife, Jane, and his sons: Justin, Hunter and Miles. He will be dearly missed by all his colleagues and patients. Michael L. Marin, M.D. Chairman, Dept. of Surgery Mount Sinai School of Medicine Lester Silver, M.D. Chief, Div. of Plastic Surgery Mount Sinai School of Medicine

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Published by New York Times on Mar. 20, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for JIN CHUN

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August 14, 2025

Wish you were still here with us.
- FC

Sheila Gaillard

August 2, 2025

I often think about his family, former patients as myself and friends. This was such a great loss and so unexpected. I hope everyone is doing well. I´m am still well and thriving. Continue to RIHP Dr. Chung.
~ Mss Sheila

July 24, 2025

We miss you! All the messages and letters you gave me, I hold dear!
- FC

Thong Than

March 20, 2025

We always remember what you said.

Love you

Chun Sophia

November 4, 2024

Francine Shapiro

February 24, 2024

Always think of you, Dr. Chun. I remember your kindness and caring. You are truly missed.

Nina Bertsch

February 24, 2024

Dearest family of Dr. Chun, my son Alex wants Dr.Chun to realize what a gift he gave him when he restored function to his arm. He is 31 now, just under 6 months of age when the doc performed 8 hours of microsurgery on him. He is doing well and has excelled in his chosen career. We still remember you, such kindness and a great comfort during times of tough decision making.

Sophia Chun

February 23, 2024

Chun Sophia

October 20, 2023

CHUN SOPHIA

October 20, 2023

CHUN SOPHIA

October 20, 2023

Lorraine Meyer

May 1, 2023

y plastic surge for over four yours during my breast cancer diagnosis. Dr. Chun was wonderful, a friend and gave me courage and took care of me during 4 surgeries with him and in mylast surgery with him was my current breast surgeon Dr. Philip Torina ( which I didn't know till after Chun passed), and learned Dr. Chun had trained Dr. Torina. A better reference he could not have had as I found out before my last surgery in 2021. I am so blessed to have both of them during my journey. xoxo

Judy Chung

February 21, 2023

Dear Sophia,
I just stumbled on to this site and didn't know of your existence. Your eyes look like your dad's.
I'm your aunt, your father's close cousin and your grandma's (Young Choi) favorite niece.
I would love to meet you. Please email me at [email protected]
Look forward to meeting you soon.
Judy

Elizabeth Wright and Family

February 25, 2022

Happy Birthday Sophia! Your dad was my surgeon. He was an amazing doctor and friend and is always in our thoughts.

Sophia Chun

February 23, 2022

Sophia Chun

February 23, 2022

Sophia Chun

February 23, 2022

Sophia Chun

February 23, 2022

My birthday Daddy
Now I'm 10 years old
Love you

Jennifer T Napoli

June 23, 2021

A wonderful doctor and surgeon, he did my modified mastectomy in 2003. I wanted a surgeon who really would care for his patients and he did. He did a marvelous surgery on me.
I am sorry for his passing.

SheiLa Gaillard

December 19, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Lorraine Meyet

December 19, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Francine Shapiro

December 19, 2020

Think of you often with heartfelt appreciation. Forever grateful for your kindness and expertise. You will always have a place in my heart.

Elizabeth Almanzar Wright

December 18, 2020

Forever in our hearts and forever grateful.

Than Thlong

December 17, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

March 21, 2020

You are loved and remembered, always and forever.

-Fiona C.

Arlene Suyko

March 19, 2020

Wishing you well, Jane, Hunter, Miles and Justin.

Sheila Gaillard-Jackson

March 16, 2020

Dr Chun was the best doctor ever. Whn I was first diagnosed with breast cancer he made me feel tht I was in good hands. Whn I looked him up yrs later to get an upgrade I heard he had passed away. I was devastated n heartbroken. The feeling has never left my heart. God bless his family and friends

March 14, 2020

When I look at my now 28 year old son I still recall Dr Chun holding him when he was 7 days old evaluating his brachial plexus injury. He was so caring and reassuring he would do whatever it took to address the injury. He is one of those rare people who leave a lasting legacy of true care and compassion. RIP and may your family find solace in your memory..

Patty Mulholland

March 14, 2020

God bless you Dr Chun . I think of u often .Thank u for all the hard work to rebuild my nose . Never will I forget you you changed my life . Forever in my heart . Fly with the angels .Till we meet again

Anonymous

October 30, 2019

My belated condolences to the wife and sons of Dr Chun. I'm writing this as tears are rolling down my eyes as I just found out of his tragic death. I'm an old patient of his since 1997 I had a few surgeries done by him. Throughout the years if I happened to be in the hospital I would stop by his office to say hello or give regards through the secretary. I last saw Dr Chun in March 14, 2011, he promised it'll get better, but come once a year to be checked. But, I didn't as I felt better and kept delaying and delaying the ck ups. I always said I have to see Dr Chun, etc. This week I decided to make that appointment and I checked online if the dr didn't change the floor or tel and came across the legacy guest book, I was devastated. When I called the office they confirmed it, I broke down in tears as I was talking with them. I didn't want to see anyone else, Dr Chun couldn't be replaced. He was a top special dr, a special person, caring, gentle, and a lot more. He will be forever in my heart. May he Rest In Peace.

Caryn Pecorella

August 24, 2019

Dr Chun
There isn't a day when I don't think about your grace, your skilled hands and gentle heart. You healed my broken body from cancer. You made me brand new not only in body but with your kindness and empathy. I am grateful and thank you as you fly with the angels. There will never be another you. Bless you always. And may u watch over those you love

August 22, 2019

Francine Shapiro

March 14, 2019

I will always remember the kind, gentle, compassionate person that you were. You held my hand during one of the hardest times in my life. I trusted you, wholeheartedly, through all my many surgeries. I will always remember you, today, tomorrow and forever.

Sophia Chun

July 15, 2018

Sophia 6 years 5 months

Sophia Chun

April 8, 2018

Sophia 6 years old more

Elizabeth Almanzar-Wright

March 20, 2018

Thinking of you and sending the family our love.

March 19, 2018

6th death anniversary

You are loved and remembered, always and forever

- FC

March 19, 2018

6th death anniversary.

I will never forget that day.

You are LOVED and remembered, always and forever.

Neighbor to his Mother - Mrs Choi

February 16, 2018

I was his mother's neighbor for over 20 years - Mrs. Young Sook Choi, who we just found out passed away 3 weeks ago at Signature Healthcare nursing home.

He was his mother's greatest pride and joy and she spoke of him often and how heart broken she was from his loss.

Please let his widow, Jane, know of her passing in Jan 2018 and convey my deepest sympathies. Also know how she spoke frequently of her love of her grand sons. Grand son, Justin Chun, now owns her home and that was her wish for him.

Elizabeth Almanzar-Wright

February 9, 2018

I will never forget your kindness and gentle touch. Thank you for extending your care during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will forever be grateful.

JoAnne Donohue-Youngkin

December 27, 2017

I became friends with Jin when he was a surgery resident hoping to specialize in plastics. I was an ICU nurse and always enjoyed hearing his laugh. Feel awful for his wife and boys. What an incredible loss.

Sheila Gaillard-Jackson

November 9, 2017

I THINK OF U OFTEN DR. CHUN.. WHEN I WAS DIAGNOSE WITH BREAST CA IN 2006, @ THE TENDER AGE OF 41, U ASSURED ME I WAS GONA BE FINE. IN 2015, I CALLED MT SINAI LOOKING FOR YOU, I HEARD THE DEVASTATING NEWS. U MADE ME FEEL BEAUTIFUL AGAIN TILL THIS DAY. BLESSINGS TO YOUR FAMILY & RIP DR...SIR

nina bertsch

November 9, 2017

remembrance to a caring man and skilled doctor

Fiona

November 8, 2017

We miss you!

Francine Shapiro

March 30, 2017

Think about Dr. Chun often. He's still in my heart

Helen Bucsit

March 29, 2017

Today,I was in disbelief to learn that Dr. Chun is gone.That answers my search why I could no longer find his name in the Hosp's Directory.At first, I thought he maybe moved out of state or maybe back in his country til I called Mt. Sinai and heard the news.My heart was so heavy and wanted to cry. I had an abnormal growth on my left index finger , on June,02,1998,it was removed by Dr. Chun,then year 2005 around July I had and abnormal breast mass,I went to Mt. Sinai for further evaluation by a lady Doctor. When I was there I mentioned to the attendant that I knew Dr. Chun and asked her if he still here. Then finally,Dr. Chun appeared and spoke to me in a very caring full of compassion. I was crying then and I remembered his words to me. He said ,you better take care of yourself.In most times when I encountered the same situation with other people,I remember Dr. Chun. At this time my 25 year old daughter has similar growth on one of her fingers and wanted it removed.Since last night I was trying to look for Dr. Chun to do the procedure and heard the unexpected news.We lost a very talented and caring DOCTOR.For me He was one of the few that is hard to find . How I know? I am a nurse working in the Hosp.My classmate who also works as a nurse in OR referred Dr. Chun to me.With all my love and prayers,my condolences to his family.

Than and Sophia Chun

July 18, 2016

We are missing you forever

nina bertsch

June 5, 2016

25 years ago Dr Chun performed an 8 hr surgical procedure on my- at the time- five and a half month old son. His caring manner and cautious manner gave us confidence in his skills. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, his gift of compassion touched us deeply.

Randi Weinstein

March 17, 2016

I just learned of Dr Chin's passing yesterday and am so deeply sad. Dr. Chin operated on me 10 years ago and I am constantly telling everyone what an amazing Dr. he was. My condolences to his entire family and friends he left behind.

October 30, 2015

Dr Chun not A day goes buy that I don't think of you and your family> Thanks for all you done for me the 10 Sugerys and that nose looks great still a lot of hard work rebuilding it your such an Angel love ya Patty

June 17, 2015

OH MY GOD! I AM SO DEVASTATED TO READ THIS. DR CHUN WAS THE BEST. I AM HEARTBROKEN TO HEAR ABOUT HIS SUDDEN PREMATURE DEATH. WHEN I AWOKE FROM SURGERY HE WAS RIGHT THERE TELLING ME EVERYTHING WILL BE OK. THIS WAS 12/2006. HE WILL BE FOREVER MISSED. MY BELATED CONDOLENCES FAMILY

Sophia will be 3 year in Feb

Sophia Chun

December 30, 2014

The stars shine a bit dimmer without you, Dr. Chun.

Amanda Turgeon

July 10, 2014

Dr. Jin K. Chun performed two complicated reconstructive surgeries for me; one in Dec 2006 and the second in March 2008. He and his family were about to take a trip to his home country when he had a massive heart attack. I was so worried about him. Later his assistant told me that I was his favorite patient. We used to chat during my appointments and he believed in me that I could overcome this. I didn't know until today as I had left NYC in 2009. You cannot find anyone better than Dr. Chun; he literally cared for the well-being of his patients. I take this loss to heart. Mrs. Chun and children your husband/father loved you so much and he talked of you often. Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that the world has lost one terrific doctor, family man, and doting husband. You are definitely missed. Thank you for all you've done. Bless You!

May 18, 2014

I was a patient of Dr. Chun 10 years ago and I just learned of his premature and tragic death. His was the first face I saw after coming out of surgery and I will never forget his reassuring and expert care. A truly ununsual and wonderful man. I send my belated condolences to his lovely family.
Anne Sweazey

Chun Sophia

February 26, 2014

Chun Sophia 2 years birthday

February 26, 2014

Juana Santiago-Fahim

February 12, 2014

My condolences to the family of Dr. Jin K. Chun. Indirectly, he was very instrumental in providing sound information for decision making for my best childhood friend, who underwent reconstructive surgery after mastectomy for breast cancer. He was a wonderful human being and a skillful surgeon.

Keep smile for future missing father

Sophia Chun

January 28, 2014

September 7, 2013

I just learned of the tragic loss of Dr Jin Chun who held my hand through breast cancer and reconstruction. My hear t goes out to his friends and family.

Than Thlong

August 29, 2013

even you gone but you still in our heat forever

Chun Sophia is 1year and 7 months

August 29, 2013

Chun Sophia

May 26, 2013

Chun Sophia

May 26, 2013

Chun Sophia

May 26, 2013

Chun Sophia

Than Thlong

May 26, 2013

We are always with you, Jin. I and Sophia are fine and she is so cute.

Love you

Mark Cullen

May 20, 2013

Jin was my best friend in medical school. He taught me many things, and I never forgot him. I am sad that I will never be able to tell him how much his friendship meant to me. He was truly a great man.

Barbara Prasetyo

February 19, 2013

Dr. Chun saved my life, my dignity and my self evaluation. Because of Dr. Chun I can hold my head up and walk through life knowing I look and feel better as a person. My husband and sister had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Chun after one of my five surgeries and felt his kindness and caring for me as a patient and human being. He has always been in my prayers for his talent and dedication, and he will continue to be in my prayers in memory for his goodness. Condolences to his wife, sons and family.

February 4, 2013

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D26rpiN0lIY

Geri Cohen

January 30, 2013

You're kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

January 29, 2013

Thinking of you, dear Dr. Chun. I just had my mammogram, 5 years cancer free. My plastic surgery goes unfinished, and reconstruction still is problematic, but I always remember how you said, Lorrie, it is the big picture, the big picture. You are so right, and I miss you so. How can I find someone to replace you? You were so understanding. A blessing in my journey and so so fortunate to have had you in my life. I think of you so often and your family.

Lorrie Meyer xo

Melissa Ranta-Hoffman

January 28, 2013

Dr. Chun was the most amazing doctor ever. He was my doctor about 14 years ago. Dr. Chun and numerous other doctors saved my life. His compassion and his disposition made you feel like you were his number one patient. He was so amazing, there isn't enough I can say about him. I decided to look the doctors who saved my life and was horrified to learn of his passing. There isnt a day that goes by that I don't thing of this wonderful doctor. I wish to give my condolences to his family and the world for losing such an important piece of this world, it will never be the same without him. I am so sorry people will miss out on his excellence.

Anita Chinkes Ratner

January 28, 2013

Dr Chun was my doctor for two years and I feel so lucky that I had the chance to know him. I miss him and think about him every time I look in the mirror. His skill, his kindness and gentleness and his incredible sense of humor helped me get through the most difficult time in my life and I will never forget him.

January 25, 2013

Dr Chun well not a day goes buy that i dont pray for you . Im so thankful or allyou done or me rebuilding my nose.God bless you and yr family.Hope u met up with my Mom and Dad in heaven god bless you all love you all

Cynthia Shechter

January 24, 2013

Dr. Chun was an extraordinary man and a wonderful, caring physician. My deepest condolences.

Than

November 23, 2012

Than

November 23, 2012

Than

November 23, 2012

Than

November 23, 2012

S.A S

November 21, 2012

S.A. Sumner


Dear Dad, We love you,
We miss you so much
Your love and your kindness
Your soft gentle touch

If we had to live life over
We would choose you once more
If it meant losing you again
It's worth all the tears in the world.

While our hearts are now filled
With sadness and tears
We had many good memories
You will always be near

The day that you left us
Tears fell from the sky
Our hearts filled with sorrow
Your final goodbye

For years you did fight
And struggled to stay here
But you sent us a sign
When the end was quite near

Thank you for sending
That white butterfly our way
Your soul is at peace
And not far away

Your body has died
But your spirit lives strong
In each one of us
Where it forever belongs

Your time here was short
We wish you could stay
But they need you upstairs
The angels called you their way

Spread your wings and fly
Up to heaven you go
No longer will you suffer
Down on earth here below

They won't hear you coming
So softly you walk
When you get up to heaven
Make sure that you knock

You struggle no longer
You are free of pain
Your mind is clear
And call us by name

You can play tennis once more
Through the woods you can bike
Drive where ever you please
Up the mountain you may hike

In the breeze we hear your whisper
Feel your warmth from the sun
Upon the lake we see your reflection
In the stream we see you run

Until the day comes
That we cross over too
Our family will not be complete
Until we meet that day with you

Cj Xyxz

November 21, 2012

Gone Away

An Angel whispered
take my hand and
come with me
you're work here is done.

I went away to a place
where there's no tears, nor sorrow
only laughter and smiles,
there will always be a Tomorrow.

As I move amongst the clouds.
I'll look down and smile upon you,
while the angels
sing a heavenly song.

I am not alone
all who went before
are here
they awaited my return.

I know you'll grieve
and wish I was still here
I am here in the memories
you hold dear.

Remember how much I
love you
and know I took your
love with me.

I did not wish for
you to cry, nor feel sad.
My pain is gone and
I am Free!

Soon you'll come to me
until then
God will be with you
Just as He's with me

Francine Shapiro

November 20, 2012

There is not a week that goes by that I do not think of Dr. Chun. He will hold a very special place in my heart forever. I am very grateful and very blessed that our paths in life met.

Lorrie Meyer

November 19, 2012

Oh, Dr. Chun. The photo gallery reminds me how much I miss you and wish you were still with us doing your magic.

We love forever

Than Thlong

November 16, 2012

We love 3

Than Thlong

November 16, 2012

We missing you

Than Thlong

November 16, 2012

love you forever

Sophia Chun

November 13, 2012

Sophie

November 13, 2012

Jin, I love you 3!
I and Sophie are fine
We are together forever

Patty Mulholland

April 19, 2012

wow so shocked Dr Chung was an angle to me he rebuilt My nose for me over 10 sugerys and a lot of hard work so talented a life savor. I dearly loved him my hero. rest in peace my friend you will be in my prayers each day forever.Im sorry sorry for his family but he was a great man. Patty Mulholland River edge nj

Tiffany Anderson

April 18, 2012

Dr.Chun will always have a special place in my heart.He truly had a positive impact on my life, helping me feel confident and relieved of years of pain under his care for my surgery. I was blessed to be referred to him.I am forever thankful. Rest in peace and god bless you and your family.

Ann Smith

April 18, 2012

My deepest condolences to Dr.Chun's family. I was truly blessed to have him as my doctor. His compassion, gentleness and quite spirit I will always remember. To his amazing support staff Ezmeralda and Awilda. Stay strong. My prays go out to his wife and sons.

Maria Germano

April 18, 2012

Dr. Chun was an extraordinary man and a very compassionate and talented doctor. He will always be remembered and loved. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and remember, when your heart is empty, filling it with happy memories can help you find your smile.

Elizabeth Wong

April 18, 2012

To Dr. Chun's family and staff, my family and I extend our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with you all. Dr. Chun was a great doctor who was caring and compassionate during a very stressful time in my life when I was dealing with breast cancer. He enjoyed his work and put his heart into healing patients, but the love of his life was his family. He once spoke of how he was looking forward to an upcoming holiday, when he and his sons would have more time at home and they could play. We will miss Dr. Chun and remember all that he did for us.

Lucina Robertson

April 17, 2012

You were put on this earth to help people feel complete,beautiful. God bless you. You helped me through the most difficult time of my life. Thank you. Gone but your work will live on and you will not be forgotten. Thank you to the family for sharing him with us. You will be in my prayers. RIP Dr Jin K. Chun ~

April 17, 2012

Dr. Chun will be dearly missed. Our condolences go out to his wife and sons. I do remember Dr Chun talking about taking his sons on different roller coasters and of course the Yankees. He was a wonder doctor.
Geri Cohen (Jackson, NJ)

April 16, 2012

Dr. Chun was my doctor for three years. He was an excellent doctor. I will miss him.
Josefa Rosado

Maria Agiato

April 13, 2012

To Dr. Chun's family: I am so deeply sorry for your loss. His gentle compassion and respect for me as a person touched me deeply. Throughout my entire surgical process his caring nature never wavered. His talent and gift as a surgeon helped me feel more like a woman after my breast cancer surgery. He touched my life in ways that are difficult to express. May God bless you and hold you in this difficult time. You are in my prayers.

Linda Pagano

April 9, 2012

I have known Dr. Chun for less than a year, but it took me less than a minute to feel his warm and compassion and to make the decision to choose him as my surgeon. I have never met a more respectful physician or gentle man. I feel so blessed to have known him for this short time and will miss him tremendously. May his family and friends find comfort in knowing he is now in God's hands.

Laurie Marcus

April 9, 2012

I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Chun's passing.
He was a compassionate and caring Doctor and a brilliant surgeon. He created a silver cloud out of a horrific storm for me, and I am sure he did this for other patients as well. His genuine concern for his patients was extraordinary. His warmth permeated the whole office and every visit was a positive experience. My condolences to his family and his assistants, who worked with him on his mission to make his patient's lives happier.

April 8, 2012

Dear Jane - Our heartfelt condolence to you and sons- Justyn, Hunter & Miles and Jin's family. May God give you the strength at this time. In your time of sorrow Know that God is there for you always.
In His Love:
Janet Lauron- Chiong and Dickie Chiong
Vancouver, Canada
He will hold you in His arm

Nancy Weltchek

April 8, 2012

I just heard the news and feel sad to my core. I was Dr. Jun's patient eight years ago, but remember his kindness and focus on my care as if it were yesterday. As many others have said here, he was the finest doctor and the wisest and most compassionate of men. I hope that his wife and children take comfort in the number of bodies and lives he healed.

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