Jeannette Chao

CHAO, Jeannette (née Woo), 93, of Middletown, N.Y., formerly of Allendale and Ho-Ho-Kus, passed peacefully Friday, March 15, 2024, after a brief illness. Born January 13, 1932, in Peking, Rep. of China, youngest of four children. Immigrated by cargo ship via Ellis Island in March 1949; graduated Ethical Culture Fieldston School (1951); New York University (1955); married to the late Dr. Solan Chao, esteemed Columbia high-risk O.B./G.Y.N., April 13, 1957; welcomed daughters Carolyn Jean in 1963 and Patricia Anne in 1966 before settling in Allendale, New Jersey in 1969. Served the Borough of Allendale on the election board in the 1970s and 80s. Relocated with her husband to Oyster Bay, N.Y. in 1986 Solan entered into eternal life August 14, 1996; after a few years in New York City, returned to Bergen County in 2005. Loved her family at Highlands Presbyterian Church (member 1969-1986; 2005-2022) and sang in the church choir for many years. Adored her many feline and canine friends she had both in China and in the United States.

Predeceased by her beloved husband Dr. Solan Chao (d. 1996); parents Rose (née Yip) and Dr. Shutai T. Woo; and her dearest older siblings Bobby, Ruthie, and Patsy. Survived by daughters Carolyn (Michael) Fox of Paramus, and Patricia Chao of Middletown. Beloved Nana to James Solan “Buddy,” Cameron, and Rayna; and by ten beloved nieces and nephews in the Woo, Tan, Li, and Pai families whom Jeannette loved as her own.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 2:00-4:00pm at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, NJ. Funeral service to follow at 4:00pm. All are welcome.

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