Obituary of Herb J. Chan, Sr.

Herbert “Herb” J. Chan, 63, of Westerleigh, passed away on February 23, 2025. Raised in Mariners Harbor, Herb was a proud graduate of McKee High School, where he discovered his passion for carpentry. Herb was a proud member of the United States Navy and received an Honorable Discharge.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Herb was a founding partner of H & B Contracting, partner and operator of Bleachers Sports Bar on Bay Street, and the owner and CEO of Champion Construction for over 30 years. Under his leadership, Champion Construction became a respected and successful business built on integrity, craftsmanship, and dedication.

Herb had a deep love for athletics and competition. He enjoyed playing football, bowling, softball, skiing, and surfing, and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants. A devoted sports enthusiast, he also maintained an impressive collection of sports memorabilia.  Herb along with his wife Laura own a lake house in Yulan, NY where family and friends made lifelong memories.

Herb deeply valued time with his three children, creating cherished family memories through trips to Disney and attending their sporting events. He took particular pride in coaching Vincent during his t-ball years and consistently supported Christa’s passion for art. Herb also shared a strong bond with his son, Herb, through their mutual devotion to the New York Giants, often attending games together.

He was an active member of the Staten Island Kiwanis and previously served on the board of the New York District Kiwanis Foundation. Herb generously volunteered countless hours, donated supplies, and personally assisted with renovations at Kamp Kiwanis. He was also a dedicated supporter of Lifestyles for the Disabled. Herb’s generosity and commitment to helping others were unwavering; he was known for his kind heart, reliability, and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Herb is survived by his wife of 33 years, Laura Reinhold Chan; his daughter, Christa; his sons, Herb and Vincent; and his cherished granddaughter, EmmaMae. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Camille Reinhold; his siblings, Siu Ragland (Jeff), Dinah Jin (John), John Chan, and SuiLon Chan; his brothers-in-laws, Thomas and Richard Reinhold (Nancy); and his nieces and nephews, John and Justin Jin, and Danielle and Richard Reinhold.  He is also survived by his two loving god-daughters Jeneen and Zylona.

He was preceded in death by his parents For and Ling Chan and his father-in-law Thomas Reinhold.

Herb will be remembered for his strength, generosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and the profound love he had for his family and community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kamp Kiwanis, 9020 Kiwanis Road, Taberg, NY 13471 and Lifestyles for the Disabled, 930 Willowbrook Road, Staten Island, NY 10314 / Attn: Richard Selinardi in Herb’s memory.