It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Lee Cheuk Yu, former Head of United College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, on 19 December 2023, at the age of 84. The College mourns the loss of Professor Lee.

Professor Lee Cheuk Yu obtained his PhD in Biochemistry from University of British Columbia, Canada in 1968 and joined The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1972 as a lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry. After 31 years of continuous service, he retired as Professor of Biochemistry in July 2003. Apart from teaching and research, Professor Lee has rendered a wide range of services to the University and the College. He served as the Chairman of the Department of Biochemistry from 1978 to 1998, as the Head of United College from 1988 to 1998, and as the University Dean of Students from 1989 to 1992, making significant contributions. In 2005, Professor Lee was honoured with the title of Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry by the University, in recognition of his outstanding academic achievements and distinguished service to the University and the College.

Professor Lee Cheuk Yu joined the United College Board of Trustees in 1980 and remained dedicated to the college throughout the years. He served as the sixth Head of United College from 1988 to 1998, for a tenure of ten years. During his leadership, United College undertook various initiatives for the benefit and welfare of the students and staff, including the establishment of the Choi Koon Shum General Education Resource Centre, the renovation of the Tien Chi Microcomputer Laboratory, the establishment of the Shum Choi Sang United College Archives, the establishment of the Si Yuan Amenities Centre, and the construction of the Chan Chun Ha Hostel. Under Professor Lee’s guidance, the College embarked on a campus enhancement project, incorporating sculptures by renowned Hong Kong artists and planting Bombax ceiba trees, enhancing the overall campus environment.

In the field of academia, Professor Lee’s research centred on genes of the human heart, mechanisms of biological signal transduction, and tumour biochemistry, earning him international recognition. He has published over 130 papers in scientific journals. Professor Lee was highly respected and beloved by his students and colleagues.

The funeral of Professor Lee was held in Toronto, Canada, on 29 December 2023 (Fri) 10:00am to 11:00am (Eastern Standard Time). For the details of the funeral please refer this page: https://mountpleasantgroup.permavita.com/site/CheukYuLee.html.

In memory of Professor Lee, the United College has set up a condolence corner for members of the university, alumni and the public to pay their last respects to Professor Lee.  Details are as follows:

Date:     15 January (Monday) to 27 January 2024 (Saturday) [except 21 January 2024 (Sunday)]
Time:     9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue:   Shum Choi Sang United College Archives, G/F, T C Cheng Building, United  College, CUHK
Enquiry: Ms Ophelia Chan (Tel: 39437576/ Email: opheliachan@cuhk.edu.hk)