Thomas S. Yan's Obituary
Thomas S. Yan, a loving son, father, grandfather, and innovator, was born in Hong Kong in 1947. He was the first born child of Joseph and Eva Yan. He spent his childhood years in Hong Kong with his three other siblings until he was 20 years old, when his family immigrated to San Francisco, California in search of a better life away from the uncertain political and economic situations in Hong Kong.
Tom delayed his college education and supported his family during his early immigration years by working full time as a computer punch card delivery boy. Eventually he was able to attend UC Berkeley and graduated with highest honors in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. His busy new career led him to Intel for over 20 years. His innovative ideas contributed immensely to Intel’s desktop motherboard business and to the development and standardization of USB.
In 1975 Tom married his college sweetheart, Georgia Yan. They truly believe that they have lived life to the fullest and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December 2025. They have lived in Arizona, Oregon, and California and have traveled to the seven continents.
Tom passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026 surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife Georgia; his daughter Jessica and son-in-law Duy; his son Steven and daughter-in-law Cecilia; grandchildren Cammie and Caden; brothers Raymond and Andrew.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?

