In Loving Memory of Bo Ying Quan (Chin)

November 1929 – April 2026

Bo Ying Quan, a woman of remarkable resilience, work ethic, and devotion to family, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at the age of 96.

Born in China on November 14, 1929, Bo Ying married her late husband, Yow Quan, in April 1948. She moved to Hong Kong, and then in September 1954, Bo Ying and their eldest daughter, Barbara, made the courageous journey to Boston to join Yow, and begin their American journey.

The following year was one of immense growth and hard work. Together, Bo Ying and Yow purchased "International Laundry," a small labor-intensive laundry near Harvard Square in Cambridge. They worked tirelessly serving the local universities and professional community, a time of great joy of the birth of their son, Peter, in the mid 1950’s, while maintaining the business full-time, 7 AM - 7 PM, six days a week.  In the late 1950’s. Bo Ying welcomed two more daughters, Suzanne and Margaret.

Though they faced a significant setback in 1960 when the building owner closed the laundry for a period of time due to extensive building renovations, Bo Ying and Yow’s spirit remained unbroken through this financial burden. In the mid 1960’s they welcomed their youngest daughter, Leslie. In 1966, with Bo Ying’s urging, they purchased their first and forever home. Her greatest joys were her family and her home.  

One of Bo Ying’s proudest achievements occurred in July 1976, when she became a naturalized U.S. citizen, a goal she reached by attending evening classes, studying and reviewing materials related to U.S. government and history with her children after working long days at the laundry.

Following the sudden passing of her husband of 40 years in 1987, Bo transitioned to a new chapter in her life. She went door to door looking for employment, as a dishwasher, and then became a model employee at NECCO, where her dedication earned her a featured segment on the local TV program "Chronicle." She later joined the Gillette Company, where she worked as a valued employee for five years until her retirement. She loved the work, the company, and co-workers. She often volunteered for extra hours and shifts due to any shortage of workers. 

For the next 25 years, Bo Ying enjoyed an independent and vibrant retirement, surrounding herself with the family and friends she cherished. She loved to garden, go out on walks and shop with her friends and relatives, cook and make special goodies for family gatherings and numerous Chinese holidays. Her culinary skills were always a five-star rating.  

After a fall in 2021, her family had the honor of nurturing her at home with the same love and care she had provided them throughout her life. Although she fought bravely through recent health challenges, she is now at peace, reunited with her late husband, and beloved family members and friends.

She is survived by her five children, seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and respective spouses and significant others. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during visiting hours on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Wing Fook Funeral Home, 13 Gerard Street, Boston. Burial will follow at Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Avenue, Boston. 

Please note that this is a traditional Chinese funeral service that includes incense burning at all times. Immediate families paying final respects will start at 11:30 following the procession to burial.