Chinlon Lin, of Holmdel, passed away on Saturday, December 28th, at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife Helen Lin, children Thomas Lin (Jennifer Shin) and Daniel Lin (Catherine Chen), and two grandsons (Dylan and Cayden). Born in Chiayi, Taiwan, the son of Lin Bing Chuen and Tseng Show Zhe, he attended …
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Chinlon Lin, of Holmdel, passed away on Saturday, December 28th, at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife Helen Lin, children Thomas Lin (Jennifer Shin) and Daniel Lin (Catherine Chen), and two grandsons (Dylan and Cayden).
Born in Chiayi, Taiwan, the son of Lin Bing Chuen and Tseng Show Zhe, he attended National Taiwan University (NTU), where he met his cherished wife Helen. After college, they both pursued their post-graduate studies at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. Chinlon went on to receive his PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.
In his professional life, Chinlon was an inquisitive scientist, an innovative inventor, and a cutting edge researcher. He began his career in laser and optical fiber research at AT&T Bell Labs in Holmdel and later continued his work at Bellcore (Bell Communications Research); his groundbreaking patents and pioneering research contributions laid the foundation for technology that enables people to communicate every day.
Beyond pure scientific research, his passion extended to teaching graduate students and mentoring the next generation of innovators in the field of optics, always happy to share his ideas, his love of research, and his perspective with his fellow scientists. He was honored to receive invitations to join the faculty and leadership to guide research at distinguished universities around the world.
Chinlon was deeply involved in shaping his local community. Out of his family home in Holmdel, he started a local Chinese Christian fellowship in 1977 which later became the Monmouth Community Christian Church (MCCC). He was also part of a group that established the first Chinese language school in Monmouth County which now operates as Jersey Shore Chinese School.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Chinlon enjoyed spending time with his family, taking walks while appreciating nature, reading new and interesting books, and traveling every corner of the world. He cherished his life very much: every day, he made sure to savor a lovingly prepared home cooked meal by his wife, watch the news, and listen to classical music. He remained an active member of the MCCC and Lincroft Bible Church, forever blessed by the fellowship and camaraderie he shared with his brothers and sisters in Christ. Ever gentle and humble, his desire to help others, special sense of humor, and infectious smile warmed the hearts of all he encountered.
In loving memory of his life, a funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 4 at 10:30 am at Holmdel Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow at Marlboro Memorial Cemetery. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 18th at 12:00 pm at Lincroft Bible Church.
In honoring his memory, kindly share any personal stories, messages, or cherished photos via email to dylinyc@gmail.com. Flowers are welcome on the 17th of January at Lincroft Bible Church, and deliveries will be accepted until 3:00pm at 790 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ.
Wood-Hi Cheng
left a message on January 14, 2025:
我們尊敬清隆兄一生時間多在幫助別人，包括幫助弟(鄭木海)於1980年期間在美國科技公司工作及於1994年期間在台灣教職。弟再次引用清隆兄曾經引述過詩篇90（神人摩西的祈禱）第10節 ”我們一生的年日是七十歲，若強壯 ,可到八十歲；但其中所矜誇的，不過是勞苦愁煩，轉眼成空，我們便如飛而去”對尊敬清隆兄永遠懷念。
Chi-Wai Chow
left a message on January 14, 2025:
Prof. Chinlon Lin was a great mentor and good role model to me. I always remember the way he guided and taught me. I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to learn from him at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. I also remembered the wonderful times during his visits at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Taiwan.
Attached is a photo with Prof. Chinlon Lin and myself taken in 2004 when I received my Ph.D. degree. We are truly saddened by his passing.
Prof. Chi-Wai Chow, Distinguished Professor, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Taiwan
Max Yan
left a message on January 14, 2025:
I cherish the time spent with Prof. Lin when he was visiting KTH in Stockholm during August-October 2011. Prof. Lin is knowledgeable not only about photonic science and industry but also in culture, philosophy, and general wellbeing of people. Conversations along our weekend trip to Mariefred and Uppsala were very enlightening. Thanks for all seasonal greetings received in later years! Rest in peace. (Picture was taken outside Uppsala City Theater when they happened to celebrate their 60 years anniversary)
Hon Tsang
left a message on January 14, 2025:
Twenty years ago, Chinlon led the photonics group at CUHK and mentored many young professors and and students.
Attached is a photo with Charles Kao (2009 Nobel Laureate in Physics), Chinlon and myself taken in 2004.
Chinlon left a lasting impact in inspiring a new generation of researchers! We are truly saddened by his passing.
Prof. Hon Ki Tsang
Dean, Faculty of Engineering
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Dora Hu
left a message on January 13, 2025:
We deeply mourn the passing of Prof Lin, who graced Singapore as a visiting professor and served as a guiding star to many students in the photonics field. His wisdom, dedication to advancing photonics, and mentoring students will forever inspire those whose lives he touched.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jin-Xing Cai
left a message on January 12, 2025:
林先生千古！
Just learned Dr. Lin left us, a huge loss for the Chinese Optics Community.
Chinlon’s great help to many young generations will be remembered forever. Chinlon taught us technical details selflessly, helped many settle down in the US, helped many grow up to be the pillars of the optics society …
I am lucky that I was hired to Tyco Submarine by Chinlon (he was the technical director of the forward-looking work group) and I was able to work with him from 1999 to 2000. During the interview, Chinlon tried to persuade me to join Tyco, and one point he made I will remember forever – undersea fiber optic communications are very challenging since there is a lot of physics involved, and this belief supported me for my entire professional career! After Chinlon left Tyco and started his own company, I visited him every year after OFC until the pandemic. I still have his emails blessing Chinese New Year in early 2024! Rest in peace Chinlon!
The photo was taken in August, 2017 at Chinlon’s home.
Huang Ying
left a message on January 12, 2025:
I am deeply honored to have had Prof. Lin as my Ph.D. co-supervisor and later as an advisor for the company I founded. I am truly grateful for the patience he showed me and for the invaluable, visionary guidance he provided throughout my journey. His vast experience and profound insight into the telecommunication and photonics industry have left an indelible mark on both my life and my work. I will always be thankful for the privilege of learning from him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Huang Ying
Huang Ying
left a message on January 12, 2025:
In memory of Chinlon Lin, Huang Ying lit a candle
Cheng Xueping and Zhang Jing
left a message on January 12, 2025:
Professor Lin was a remarkable individual whose profound wisdom, kindness, and dedication left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. As a distinguished figure in laser photonics and broadband optical fiber communications, his groundbreaking contributions to dispersion-shifted fibers (DSF) and dispersion-compensation fibers (DCF) have been instrumental in advancing high-capacity optical fiber communication networks globally. Xueping and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to know him, learn from him, and be guided by him in the past years.
Beyond his extraordinary professional achievements, we will always remember his warmth and humor. One vivid memory that stands out is in 2009, when the Nobel Prize was announced. Professor Lin wittily remarked that it was too early for Obama but too late for Charles Kao—a reflection of his sharp intellect and sense of humor. Professor Lin and Helen together created an atmosphere where everyone around them felt valued and respected.
We believe Professor Lin lived a life of immense purpose and fulfillment, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. He is now in the care of God and at peace. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family during this difficult time.
Lei Wei
left a message on January 12, 2025:
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Prof Chinlon Lin. As a leading scientist in the field of photonics, Prof Lin made invaluable contributions to advancing our understanding and application of this field.
On a personal level, I will always remember his generosity, encouragement, and support for my career. His insights and guidance not only helped shape my research but also inspired me to strive for excellence. Prof Lin’s passion for science and unwavering dedication to innovation have left a lasting impact on many, including myself.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Rest in peace.
Perry Shum
left a message on January 11, 2025:
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Chinlon Lin, who served as a visiting professor at our institution in Singapore for two impactful years. His presence was not just a matter of academic appointment but a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for the entire research community.
As a mentor, Professor Lin was truly exceptional. He had an innate ability to recognize the potential in young researchers and was always ready with open arms to guide them. Whether it was patiently explaining complex theoretical concepts, providing practical advice on experimental setups, or offering insights into the broader landscape of photonics research, his support was invaluable. His mentorship was not limited to the laboratory or the classroom; he took a genuine interest in the personal and professional growth of each individual he interacted with.
In the field of photonics research in Singapore, Professor Lin's contributions were monumental. He introduced novel research directions and methodologies, which laid the groundwork for many of the advancements we see today. His research papers and projects not only elevated the academic profile of our institution but also enhanced Singapore's standing in the global photonics community.
Professor Lin's departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. However, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of researchers. His work, his teachings, and his spirit of inquiry will be remembered and cherished. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Perry Shum
Frank Tong
left a message on January 11, 2025:
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Chinlon Lin.
I had the privilege of meeting him when I first joined IBM Research at the Thomas J. Watson Center, working in the optical networking group under Paul Green. Chinlon, along with TP Lee, was instrumental in organizing side meetings during the Optical Fiber Communication (OFC) conference, creating a welcoming space for all Chinese Americans involved in optical communication. His efforts helped foster a strong community within our field.
When I decided to leave my position at CUHK to pursue entrepreneurial activities, I nominated Chinlon to take over my role. His expertise and leadership were well-recognized, and I knew he would excel in that capacity. We maintained contact over the years until his retirement and subsequent move back to the United States.
Chinlon's contributions to optical communications and his dedication to mentoring others will be greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Wing Shing Wong
left a message on January 10, 2025:
My deep condolences. His gentle, warm smile is what stuck in my memory of a former colleague.
Jianbin XU
left a message on January 10, 2025:
In memory of Prof. Lin, I am sending an image of group photo. It was one of photos taken during a Photonic Symposium organized by Prof. Lin, on Dec 06--8, 2004.
Jianbin XU
left a message on January 9, 2025:
哲人其萎，风范犹存。
Calvin CK Chan
left a message on January 8, 2025:
Chinlon is indeed a very kind and sincere scholar to all Chinese in our photonics community. I would never forget Chinlon's sincere help in past years, My family and I are in deep sorrow to have lost such a great, sincere, and highly respected teacher and friend. We will always miss Chinlon. We would like to express our sincere condolence to his family.
Chi Lok WONG (former staff of CUHK, NTU Singapore)
left a message on January 8, 2025:
In memory of Prof. Lin:
Prof. Lin was the photonic center director when I was at CUHK and NTU Singapore. He gave us a lot of encouragements and advises in research, career development and Christian life.
NIV Bible- John 11:25
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;
CHINCHIN LIN
left a message on January 7, 2025:
Our most beloved elder brother, the most outstanding son of the Lin family, your perfect image will always be remembered in our hearts. Rest in the arms of the Lord!
Sheng-Lung Huang & Ping-Hui Sophia Yeh
left a message on January 5, 2025:
I’ll always cherish the countless memorable meetings and meals we shared, each one filled with laughter, deep conversations, and your unique perspective on life. Thank you for your wisdom and enthusiasm, which inspire and support us. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Ting Mei
left a message on January 4, 2025:
清隆先生曾与我在新加坡南洋理工大学共事，先生热忱正直敢言，予我诸多支持。值先生羽化之时，拟五绝一首与先生家人共怀先生之德：
斯人若彩虹，
骑鹤上云空。
凡尘留清影，
大爱存心中。
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Frank Chang
left a message on January 3, 2025:
This is big loss for optics industry. Prof Lin is life member of PSC , always promote PSC for optics community and missed by all of us at PSC.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Wood-Hi Cheng
left a message on January 14, 2025:
我們尊敬清隆兄一生時間多在幫助別人，包括幫助弟(鄭木海)於1980年期間在美國科技公司工作及於1994年期間在台灣教職。弟再次引用清隆兄曾經引述過詩篇90（神人摩西的祈禱）第10節 ”我們一生的年日是七十歲，若強壯 ,可到八十歲；但其中所矜誇的，不過是勞苦愁煩，轉眼成空，我們便如飛而去”對尊敬清隆兄永遠懷念。
Chi-Wai Chow
left a message on January 14, 2025:
Prof. Chinlon Lin was a great mentor and good role model to me. I always remember the way he guided and taught me. I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to learn from him at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. I also remembered the wonderful times during his visits at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Taiwan.
Attached is a photo with Prof. Chinlon Lin and myself taken in 2004 when I received my Ph.D. degree. We are truly saddened by his passing.
Prof. Chi-Wai Chow, Distinguished Professor, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Taiwan
Max Yan
left a message on January 14, 2025:
I cherish the time spent with Prof. Lin when he was visiting KTH in Stockholm during August-October 2011. Prof. Lin is knowledgeable not only about photonic science and industry but also in culture, philosophy, and general wellbeing of people. Conversations along our weekend trip to Mariefred and Uppsala were very enlightening. Thanks for all seasonal greetings received in later years! Rest in peace. (Picture was taken outside Uppsala City Theater when they happened to celebrate their 60 years anniversary)
Hon Tsang
left a message on January 14, 2025:
Twenty years ago, Chinlon led the photonics group at CUHK and mentored many young professors and and students.
Attached is a photo with Charles Kao (2009 Nobel Laureate in Physics), Chinlon and myself taken in 2004.
Chinlon left a lasting impact in inspiring a new generation of researchers! We are truly saddened by his passing.
Prof. Hon Ki Tsang
Dean, Faculty of Engineering
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Dora Hu
left a message on January 13, 2025:
We deeply mourn the passing of Prof Lin, who graced Singapore as a visiting professor and served as a guiding star to many students in the photonics field. His wisdom, dedication to advancing photonics, and mentoring students will forever inspire those whose lives he touched.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jin-Xing Cai
left a message on January 12, 2025:
林先生千古！
Just learned Dr. Lin left us, a huge loss for the Chinese Optics Community.
Chinlon’s great help to many young generations will be remembered forever. Chinlon taught us technical details selflessly, helped many settle down in the US, helped many grow up to be the pillars of the optics society …
I am lucky that I was hired to Tyco Submarine by Chinlon (he was the technical director of the forward-looking work group) and I was able to work with him from 1999 to 2000. During the interview, Chinlon tried to persuade me to join Tyco, and one point he made I will remember forever – undersea fiber optic communications are very challenging since there is a lot of physics involved, and this belief supported me for my entire professional career! After Chinlon left Tyco and started his own company, I visited him every year after OFC until the pandemic. I still have his emails blessing Chinese New Year in early 2024! Rest in peace Chinlon!
The photo was taken in August, 2017 at Chinlon’s home.
Huang Ying
left a message on January 12, 2025:
I am deeply honored to have had Prof. Lin as my Ph.D. co-supervisor and later as an advisor for the company I founded. I am truly grateful for the patience he showed me and for the invaluable, visionary guidance he provided throughout my journey. His vast experience and profound insight into the telecommunication and photonics industry have left an indelible mark on both my life and my work. I will always be thankful for the privilege of learning from him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Huang Ying
Huang Ying
left a message on January 12, 2025:
In memory of Chinlon Lin, Huang Ying lit a candle
Cheng Xueping and Zhang Jing
left a message on January 12, 2025:
Professor Lin was a remarkable individual whose profound wisdom, kindness, and dedication left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. As a distinguished figure in laser photonics and broadband optical fiber communications, his groundbreaking contributions to dispersion-shifted fibers (DSF) and dispersion-compensation fibers (DCF) have been instrumental in advancing high-capacity optical fiber communication networks globally. Xueping and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to know him, learn from him, and be guided by him in the past years.
Beyond his extraordinary professional achievements, we will always remember his warmth and humor. One vivid memory that stands out is in 2009, when the Nobel Prize was announced. Professor Lin wittily remarked that it was too early for Obama but too late for Charles Kao—a reflection of his sharp intellect and sense of humor. Professor Lin and Helen together created an atmosphere where everyone around them felt valued and respected.
We believe Professor Lin lived a life of immense purpose and fulfillment, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. He is now in the care of God and at peace. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family during this difficult time.
Lei Wei
left a message on January 12, 2025:
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Prof Chinlon Lin. As a leading scientist in the field of photonics, Prof Lin made invaluable contributions to advancing our understanding and application of this field.
On a personal level, I will always remember his generosity, encouragement, and support for my career. His insights and guidance not only helped shape my research but also inspired me to strive for excellence. Prof Lin’s passion for science and unwavering dedication to innovation have left a lasting impact on many, including myself.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Rest in peace.
Perry Shum
left a message on January 11, 2025:
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Chinlon Lin, who served as a visiting professor at our institution in Singapore for two impactful years. His presence was not just a matter of academic appointment but a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for the entire research community.
As a mentor, Professor Lin was truly exceptional. He had an innate ability to recognize the potential in young researchers and was always ready with open arms to guide them. Whether it was patiently explaining complex theoretical concepts, providing practical advice on experimental setups, or offering insights into the broader landscape of photonics research, his support was invaluable. His mentorship was not limited to the laboratory or the classroom; he took a genuine interest in the personal and professional growth of each individual he interacted with.
In the field of photonics research in Singapore, Professor Lin's contributions were monumental. He introduced novel research directions and methodologies, which laid the groundwork for many of the advancements we see today. His research papers and projects not only elevated the academic profile of our institution but also enhanced Singapore's standing in the global photonics community.
Professor Lin's departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. However, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of researchers. His work, his teachings, and his spirit of inquiry will be remembered and cherished. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Perry Shum
Frank Tong
left a message on January 11, 2025:
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Chinlon Lin.
I had the privilege of meeting him when I first joined IBM Research at the Thomas J. Watson Center, working in the optical networking group under Paul Green. Chinlon, along with TP Lee, was instrumental in organizing side meetings during the Optical Fiber Communication (OFC) conference, creating a welcoming space for all Chinese Americans involved in optical communication. His efforts helped foster a strong community within our field.
When I decided to leave my position at CUHK to pursue entrepreneurial activities, I nominated Chinlon to take over my role. His expertise and leadership were well-recognized, and I knew he would excel in that capacity. We maintained contact over the years until his retirement and subsequent move back to the United States.
Chinlon's contributions to optical communications and his dedication to mentoring others will be greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Wing Shing Wong
left a message on January 10, 2025:
My deep condolences. His gentle, warm smile is what stuck in my memory of a former colleague.
Jianbin XU
left a message on January 10, 2025:
In memory of Prof. Lin, I am sending an image of group photo. It was one of photos taken during a Photonic Symposium organized by Prof. Lin, on Dec 06--8, 2004.
Jianbin XU
left a message on January 9, 2025:
哲人其萎，风范犹存。
Calvin CK Chan
left a message on January 8, 2025:
Chinlon is indeed a very kind and sincere scholar to all Chinese in our photonics community. I would never forget Chinlon's sincere help in past years, My family and I are in deep sorrow to have lost such a great, sincere, and highly respected teacher and friend. We will always miss Chinlon. We would like to express our sincere condolence to his family.
Chi Lok WONG (former staff of CUHK, NTU Singapore)
left a message on January 8, 2025:
In memory of Prof. Lin:
Prof. Lin was the photonic center director when I was at CUHK and NTU Singapore. He gave us a lot of encouragements and advises in research, career development and Christian life.
NIV Bible- John 11:25
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;
CHINCHIN LIN
left a message on January 7, 2025:
Our most beloved elder brother, the most outstanding son of the Lin family, your perfect image will always be remembered in our hearts. Rest in the arms of the Lord!
Sheng-Lung Huang & Ping-Hui Sophia Yeh
left a message on January 5, 2025:
I’ll always cherish the countless memorable meetings and meals we shared, each one filled with laughter, deep conversations, and your unique perspective on life. Thank you for your wisdom and enthusiasm, which inspire and support us. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Ting Mei
left a message on January 4, 2025:
清隆先生曾与我在新加坡南洋理工大学共事，先生热忱正直敢言，予我诸多支持。值先生羽化之时，拟五绝一首与先生家人共怀先生之德：
斯人若彩虹，
骑鹤上云空。
凡尘留清影，
大爱存心中。
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Frank Chang
left a message on January 3, 2025:
This is big loss for optics industry. Prof Lin is life member of PSC , always promote PSC for optics community and missed by all of us at PSC.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
×
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
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