Li Yei Chou's Obituary
Tom Chou was born in Tian-Jin, China in 1942. When he was 6 years old, Tom migrated to Taiwan with his parents. After his graduation from university, Tom again migrated with his family to Argentina. With the support and leadership from his father, Tom ventured into a large multi-chain supermarket business. His success was well regarded in the political and business arena. As a result, Tom was appointed as a world-trade business representative of Argentina, and worked with Taiwan to exchange product trading ideas. While he was in Taiwan, he met Gloria and became engaged; they decided to start their lives together in the United States where they co-founded GTT / USA Gateway Travel in 1984. 25 years ago, while flying to Houston and looking at the blue sky, Tom sensed a mission to develop Gateway Travel as the largest travel agency that specializes in travel between the United States and Asia. I believe the Lord had heard his prayer, and fulfilled his mission. With the blessing of the Lord, Gateway Travel (GTT,) is now the largest travel agent in United States for all Asia bound customers and all of the major airlines serving Asia. Today, GTT / USA Gateway Travel has over 40 locations, and as well expanded in many Asia locations with over 600 employees globally. Tom and Gloria have a son, Kevin, (currently 14 years old) who is their pride and joy. In the last 25 years, Tom was very focused on his work and due to an extended period of over-exhaustion, he had a recurrence of prostate cancer in 2007. During the last two years, Tom’s health deteriorated, and yet, he continued to work hard and endure the great pains from his illness. His determination, strength, and the sense of responsibility have deeply affected Gloria and her family. Gloria was so moved by his determination that she cherishes the time she had with him more now than ever. Since his early age, Tom was baptized as a believer and attended church with his family every Sunday. Tom attributed all his business success including GTT, to his God who is righteous, merciful and faithful. Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6
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