Paul Wu

Dr. Paul Yone Kuo Wu, MD, passed away in his South Pasadena home on May 17, 2023. He was 91 years old.

Paul was born in Calcutta, India in 1931 to parents Ching Ai and Li Shi Wu.  He was the youngest of his five siblings, Matthew, Ruth, Phillip, Samuel and Kathleen.  Growing up in Calcutta, he attended an English-speaking school. He then trained to be a physician at the University of Calcutta Medical College. After receiving his medical license, he pursued his residency in pediatrics in London, England. Moving to Birmingham, Paul further specialized in neonatology under a pioneer in the nascent field as he was especially interested in healing babies.

In 1962, Dr. Wu went to work in Chicago at Michael Reese Hospital in neonatal care.  While there, his sister Kathleen re-connected him with Chiuying Chen.  The Chen and Wu families had grown up together, attending the same church in Calcutta.  In 1965, Paul and Chiuying married, leading to a loving life together for 58 years. In 1969 he started working at the LA County + USC Medical Center, with colleagues developing the newly formed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, settling in nearby South Pasadena. During his time with USC, he worked in the NICU taking care of premature and ill babies, researched, and taught, training many fellows who continue as department leaders to this day. In 2002, he was appointed Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics at USC. He was a proud member of the USC community and happily watched both of his children and his oldest grandchild graduate as Trojans.

Paul loved his profession and had an impact on many lives through his teaching, research, and care for newborn babies. He enjoyed traveling the world and taking cruises with his wife. He appreciated the theater and classical music and introduced his children to his favorite musicals. He appreciated hosting guests, especially his extended family during the holidays, and loved to have everyone sitting around a table well fed. He doted on his grandchildren. 

Dr. Wu was a resident of South Pasadena for 54 years and supported his community. He leaves behind his wife Chiuying, his daughter Annette and her husband Andrew, his son Christopher and his wife Beth, and three grandchildren Bailey, Parker and Adeline, as well as many nieces and nephews. Paul enjoyed the love and care of his children and their families and good friends in the community.