Hsin-Chen Ann Kuan passed away on Saturday, Jan. 6. She was 61. 

From an early age, Ann showed an aptitude for music that later translated into one of her proudest accomplishments – being one of the first Asian undergraduate students to attend Westminster Choir College. With her beautiful voice, she quickly became a member of the college’s most prestigious choir and subsequently performed around the world with them. Most notable were her performances with the choir in Charleston, North Carolina and Italy. 

After graduating from college, she discovered her second love, fashion. Ann put herself through design school in New York City and later went on to work for large fashion brands such as Nautica and Ann Taylor.

While working and living in New York, Ann started exploring the diverse cuisines the city had to offer. Food soon became another enjoyment of Ann’s and she quickly became an expert in local hotspots and the best restaurants in the city. Ann’s passion for food extended to the kitchen as well. She could often be found whipping up new recipes for herself and for the family, especially during the holidays. With her recent diagnosis of kidney disease and diabetes, her diet became extremely limited and restricted. However, her passion for delicious food did not falter. As a testament to her ingenuity and creativity, Ann would try to substitute ingredients in her favorite recipes so she could still enjoy her favorite dishes.

Ann is survived by her three sisters, Grace, Sandy, and Susan as well as her brother Jerry, her Mother Lisa, father Tony, and nieces and a nephew. Ann was a loving and dutiful daughter. For her last Christmas, she took her mother to Atlantic City for a fun mini getaway. Ann was also a kind, compassionate and thoughtful woman, constantly thinking of others and concerned for their wellbeing. Her kindness and big heart will forever be remembered and will be greatly missed. 

The viewing will be on Friday, Jan. 20 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Kimble Funeral Home in Princeton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to either the American Kidney Fund or the American Diabetes Association.