Dana Chang, 68, a beloved member of our community, gently passed away on July 16, 2024. Her life served as a testament to the power of kindness, fidelity, and unwavering love for her loved ones. Dana’s presence affected the lives of many individuals, and her influence will inspire those who knew her in the future.
Childhood and Schooling
Dana was born in San Francisco, California, on March 12, 1956. She was gifted academically and artistically at a young age, being the oldest of three children. Dana graduated with honors from Lowell High School and then went on to the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Throughout her time at UC Berkeley, she was involved in a number of social concerns, which demonstrated her tremendous desire to make the world a better place.
Career and Accomplishments
After graduating from UC Berkeley, Dana pursued a degree in social work and worked in impoverished communities for more than thirty years. She worked with several nonprofit organizations, such as San Francisco Family Services and the Children’s Advocacy Centre, where she played a key role in developing programs that provided resources and support to families facing financial hardship.
People saw Dana’s unwavering work ethic. Throughout her career, she received several honors, such as the San Francisco Board of Supervisors’ Community Service Award and the National Association of Social Workers’ Lifetime Achievement Award. She was valued by colleagues and clients alike for her professionalism, sensitivity, and unwavering commitment to social justice.
Personal and Family Life
Dana was a loving wife to Michael Chang, her boyfriend from her UC Berkeley junior year. The couple, who were celebrating 45 years of marriage, showed a profound and lasting love. Dana’s passion and joy in life were their two children, David and Emily, whom they raised together. Dana was a kind and understanding mother who was always willing to offer guidance and assistance.
Away from her profession and family, Dana had a deep passion for the arts. She was an amazing painter, and I was often inspired and reassured by her work. Her paintings, which adorned the walls of her home and the homes of friends and family, were a reflection of her vibrant energy and inventive spirit.
Participation of the Community
Dana was a well-known volunteer and member of several neighborhood organizations. She was a vital member of the community. She volunteered her time to assist women and children in need while being an active member of the San Francisco Women’s Shelter. Dana was always happy to lend a hand and participated in neighborhood cleaning events as well as volunteering at the local food bank.
her commitment to the community outside of work. Many students and young social workers benefited from Dana’s guidance, expertise, and experience. The numerous lives she touched and the continuous changes taking place in her community are testaments to her influence.
A Legacy of Goodwill and Compassion
Dana Chang life served as a testament to the power of compassion, love, and willpower. She leaves a legacy that will inspire and encourage those who had the good fortune to know her. Her lovely attitude, unwavering commitment to helping others, and caring heart will be remembered by her family, friends, and coworkers.
Dana is survived by her husband, Michael; her kids, David and Emily; her sister, Grace; and her brother, Thomas. Even though she will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her, her legacy will endure in the hearts of everyone she had an impact on.
A memorial service honoring Dana’s life will be held in the San Francisco Grace Cathedral on July 25, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to San Francisco Family Services in Dana’s honor.
Dana Chang set a wonderful example for what it means to live a life filled with love, kindness, and purpose. Her legacy will guide and inspire us going forward, constantly serving as a reminder of the enormous impact one person can have on the world.
