Billy Gin

1925 - 2024

Billy Gin

April 26, 1925 - February 18, 2024

San Luis Obispo, California - Billy Gin (Gin Ah Park), co-owner of Mee Heng Low restaurant in San Luis Obispo's historic Chinatown district, peacefully passed away in his home on February 18, 2024, at the age of 98. He was born on April 26th, 1925, to Gow and Peggy Gin, who started Mee Heng Low. As a young boy Billy, migrated to the United States to work with his father, Gow, at the family restaurant. At nineteen he returned to Guangdong, Taishan city, China, in search of a bride. There he found Yee Choi Ping (Pat) who he married in 1945. He returned to the United States where he worked hard at the restaurant, saving enough money to bring his wife and three sons later. A fourth son was then born in the US. Billy and Pat purchased a home on Garden Street where they raised their four sons and lived together happily for 68 years. He was a very kind and attentive grandfather to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren, who all share many fond memories of him. He was instrumental in helping many families obtain citizenship and a better life in the United States. He had many interests including, hunting, fishing, boating, and gardening. He also had a semi-trained bluebird that kept him company in his backyard, which could be summoned by shaking a jar of peanuts.

He is survived by his four sons, Wayne, Bob, Tom and Dick, as well as eight grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.

Billy will be laid to rest next to his wife Pat at the San Luis Obispo Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at Wheeler-Smith Mortuary Chapel, 2890 S. Higuera St. on Monday February 26th at 1:00pm.