In Memoriam: Aaron Hung Ye, Dining Services

To: UC Santa Cruz Community

From: Bill Prime, Director, Dining Services

Aaron Hung Ye memorial

It is with deep sadness that I write to share the news regarding the death of one of our Dining employees. Aaron Hung Ye served at UCSC as a cook for Dining Services working at the Cowell Dining Hall. Aaron was born on September 21, 1959 in Shanghai China and moved to America in 1981. For over thirty years, he worked as a chef in several local restaurants as well a restaurant owner himself. Aaron joined our team in September 2017. His family shared with us that Aaron really enjoyed working at UCSC. “He would come home from work and tell us what he made for the day and how much students like his food. … He was so happy,” said his son Philip.

Aaron’s infectious smile clearly made an impact on all of us in Dining in short period he worked for us. The family came to campus to express their thanks to UCSC Dining and especially to the staff of Cowell Dining to tell them personally how they affected Aaron’s life so positively.

Notification of Aaron’s passing came from his wife Sandy. Aaron is survived by Sandy, their daughter, Madelin, and son, Philip.

Dining Services and the greater UCSC Community mourn his passing.

Sad and shocking news can be difficult to process. We encourage staff who wish to speak with someone to call the Employee Assistance Program at (866) 808-6205