In memory of Dr. Chung-Yun Hse
Email from Robert Harper, Acting Station Director of Forest Service Southern Research Station:
I am saddened to inform you of the death of our colleague, Dr. Chung-Yun Hse who passed away Friday, November 12, 2021. Dr. Hse (Chung) worked in the Utilization of Southern Forest Resources Research Unit (RWU-4704) in Pineville for over 50 years (1967-2019). He retired January 2, 2020 and was awarded the designation of Emeritus Scientist by the Station Director. Chung was an active emeritus scientist and continued to publish multiple refereed articles each year in ‘retirement’.
Chung received numerous USDA Forest Service recognitions which included: the Forest Service Chief’s Honor Award for Distinguished Science (2004); Station Director’s Award for Technology Transfer (1992); Station Director’s Award for International Programs (2001); and Station Director’s Award for Sustained Excellence in Science (2003). Additional major recognition from outside the USDA Forest Service included: Fellow of the International Academy of Wood Science (1998); Fred W. Gottschalk Memorial Award for Outstanding Service to the Forest Products Society (2008); and Distinguished Service Award Society of Wood Science and Technology (2012). International recognitions included: Chinese Ministry of Forestry Award for Excellence in International Forestry Cooperation and Exchange (1994); China’s Friendship Award in Appreciation of Enthusiastic Support for China’s Construction and Friendly Cooperation (2001), and The International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Award of The People’s Republic of China (2013).
In recent years, Chung’s work focused on value-added biomass based products, including development of a specialized method of lignocellulosic biomass fractionation. His method conserved energy and used environmentally friendly solvent solutions. He was also focusing on the development of nano-cellulose and spinning fibers. While Chung was a productive scientist, one of his greatest accomplishments was that he hosted over 40 young visiting scientists from universities and research institutes during his career. Many of these visitors continued productive scientific investigations, often in collaboration with Chung, after they returned home.
Phil Araman (R) and Dana Mitchell (L) celebrated Chung’s 50 years of service with him in 2018.
Retirement party for the man who didn’t like sweets, but who came back for seconds (2020).
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the HSE family at www.cookwaldenchapelofthehills.com.
Cards and other condolences may be sent directly to:
Suh H Hse (wife), Irene Rucker (daughter), Lisa Steusser (daughter), and Bruce Hse (son)
10800 Callanish Park Drive
Austin TX 79750
For additional information, please contact Janie Ashby, Chung’s long-time business management assistant at janie.ashby@usda.gov.