Ha-Yi Aileen Chan, age 68, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026.
Born in Hong Kong to King Chu Lam and the late Chuck Hing Chan, Aileen was the beloved wife of John Chin; loving mother of Nathan Chin; and dear sister of Tony Chan and his wife, Li Hong Liu; Eddie Chan and his wife, Karin Mak; and Ki Chan and his wife, Emily Tsai. She was also a loving aunt to three nieces and two nephews, a devoted godmother, and a cherished relative and friend to many.
Aileen was a true entrepreneur whose curiosity, determination, and imagination led her into many business ventures. She co-owned and operated Hunan by the Falls in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, for more than 30 years and was also the owner of Fabuleux Nail Spa in Woodmere, Ohio. She was always imagining her next opportunity and welcomed each new venture with energy and optimism.
Having lived on three continents, Aileen developed a deep appreciation for different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Her experiences gave her a natural warmth toward people of every background. She believed in treating everyone with kindness and respect and formed lasting friendships wherever life and business took her.
Known throughout the community for her generosity, Aileen regularly supported local events, theatrical productions, fundraisers, organizations, and neighboring businesses. She loved her customers dearly and found great joy in watching three generations of families return to the restaurant year after year. To Aileen, her customers were not simply guests - they became part of her extended family.
When she was not working, Aileen treasured spending time with her family in Chicago and sharing meals, laughter, and stories with loved ones. She also appreciated life's simple beauty. She could often be found photographing flowers and collecting distinctive plants, many of which she displayed throughout her home and restaurant. She also had a truly distinctive sense of style, easily incorporating influences from different cultures with an eye for vibrant colors and unique materials. Her creativity and individuality shone through in everything she wore.
Aileen will be remembered for her adventurous entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, devotion to her family, and the genuine care she showed everyone she met. Her radiant smile and joyful laugh had a remarkable way of putting people at ease. She had a gift of making everyone she met feel like a cherished friend. Her warmth, kindness, and bright spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Aileen will be laid to rest in Chicago, Illinois to be close to family. Memorial and burial service information will be shared in the link below once arrangements are finalized.