Tom Sik Chin

Tom Chin was born in Canton, China. Before immigrating to the United States he married June Seto in his mid-teens. He fathered two daughters while still in China. He came to the United States in 1928 to seek a better life for him and his family. He eventually settled in Detroit, Michigan. He began working in his father's grocery store, Wah Lee, in the original Detroit Chinatown on Third Avenue. In addition he also worked nights and weekends as a waiter in his brother-in-law’s and father's restaurant, Chung’s Restaurant, at the same time. By1938 he was able to send for his family. His wife and daughter Lai Goon (Shirley) joined him in Detroit. After his wife joined him, they had five more children – Wing, Allen, Eugene, Nancy and John.

The early years were committed to the welfare and education of his family. Because of his work ethic and good business sense, he was able to achieve the goals that motivated him to immigrate to the United States.

Over the years, Tom Chin was a storekeeper, cook, butcher, delivery man, and waiter. In later years, he was a businessman and investor. He eventually became partners with his sister, nephew, and son as the owners of Chung’s Restaurant after it moved from the original Chinatown on Third Street to the new Chinatown on Cass Avenue.

In his leisure time, Mr. Chin enjoyed shopping for fresh produce at Eastern Market, gardening, and travel. He was a member of On Leong (Chinese Merchant Association).

In an era when heroes have become so fleeting, it is a real treasure to have someone who inspires you with their diligence and durability. For us in the Chinese community that man came from within. Tom Chin was a man who meant so much to not only his family, but to the Chinese Community of Detroit.

Tom was born in Canton, China, on May 16, 1912. He married June Seto, the girl who would go on to be his soul mate for the next 71 years, in 1927. They had two daughters, Lai Goon (Shirley) and Lai Woon. Unfortunately, Lai Woon succumbed to Scarlet Fever at the age of two.

Despite having his hands full with his career and a growing family, Tom took on an active role in the Chinese Merchants Association. In this position he assisted new immigrants in establishing businesses in the restaurant industry. Eventually, he became the Association's president, and as its president he represented Detroit in a glowing light to the rest of the Chinese communities across the country. He truly loved his new home. As others sought opportunities in the larger cities of San Francisco and New York, moving never entered his mind. Only in his final years, when he needed more assistance did he move to a Chinese-speaking assisted living facility in California to escape the harsh winters. Tom's was an Horatio Alger's story actualized. He was a self-made man and a paragon to his community.

In his passing, Tom leaves behind a strong legacy and tradition. Under his watch, Chungs became the long-continuing Chinese restaurant in all of Michigan for over 64 years, and counting. He leaves behind many fond memories for those whose lives he touched. His is an indelible footprint on the Chinese Community.