Howard Pokhyong Yu

Howard Pokhyong Yu, beloved husband, father, grandfather, farmer, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully at his home in Earlimart, California, surrounded by family on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was 91.

Howard was born in Seoul, Korea, on November 5, 1933, to parents Chun Yong Yu and Chang Jin. He fought in the Korean War at age 18 at which point he devoted his life to the Lord—a vow he honored throughout his life. He studied economics at Soongsil University in Seoul and later earned a degree in agriculture from Cal Poly Pomona. Howard immigrated to the U.S. in 1964 along with childhood friend and sweetheart, Dr. Soo Chung Lee. Soo is the daughter of “Nosan” Eun Sang Lee, Korean poet and songwriter, and Bok Sin Kim. Howard and Soo married later that same year in Glendora, California.

In 1970, Howard and Soo founded Yu Farm in California’s Central Valley. Through vision, hard work, and prayer, they grew the business from a small field into a thriving family farm known for melons, Korean vegetables, and rice sold under the Nosan brand—named in honor of Soo’s late father. Today, the farm continues with an orchard of cherry trees.

Howard lived his faith and saw farming as a calling to honor God through his labor. He shared food with neighbors, supported ministries, and offered his voice in worship and unwavering faith. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Soo; six children—Samuel, Sarah, Susanna, Stephen, Simon, and Salome (named after Biblical figures); and nine grandchildren—Savanah, Lily, Alexis, Jonathan, Samantha, Olivia, Ruth, Emily, and Seth.

Howard Yu loved to grow things—with his hands, his heart, and his faith. In doing so, he grew a family, a community, and a legacy that will continue to bear fruit through his children, grandchildren, and generations to come!

A funeral service will be held on November 5, 2025, in Delano, California, at 7:45–8:45 a.m. at Loving Care Mortuary, 1303 Glenwood, followed by interment at 9:00 a.m. at North Kern Cemetery District, 627 Austin Street.

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