Jay Hai Yoo, a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated physician, and a man of many passions, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 5, 2024. He was 73 years young.

Jay was born on June 20, 1951, in Busan, South Korea. He grew up in Seoul, South Korea with two sisters and three brothers. His remarkable career in medicine began at South National University College of Medicine, where he graduated in 1977. After earning his medical degree, Jay served with distinction as a Medical Officer in the Korean Army from 1977 to 1980. Following his military service, he completed an internship at Seoul National University Hospital, honing his skills and deepening his commitment to patient care. Jay then practiced as a physician at Anyang City Clinic, providing compassionate care to his community. In 1981, driven by the pursuit of new opportunities and a desire to further his medical career, Jay immigrated to the United States.

Upon his arrival in New Jersey, Jay completed an internship at St. Barnabas Medical Center. In 1982, he reunited with his family in Michigan and pursued a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, which he completed in 1985.

Jay's career took him to Muskogee, Oklahoma, where he made significant contributions to the medical community. He served as the Medical Director of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) department at Muskogee Regional Medical Center and the Muskogee VA from 1985 to 2003. Additionally, he operated a successful private practice, Dr. Yoo's Rehabilitation and Pain Clinic.

In 2003, Jay and his family moved to Bakersfield, California, where he continued his impactful work in medicine. He reopened Dr. Yoo's Rehab and Pain Clinic and worked at Encompass Health (formerly Health South), serving as Director of Encompass Health's Joint Commission Certified Pulmonary Program.

Jay achieved several board certifications, reflecting his expertise and dedication to his field, including the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, with a subspecialty in Pain Medicine, the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and the American Board of Medical Acupuncture.

Despite his demanding career, Jay always made time for the important moments in his two daughters' lives. They were his pride and joy. He attended every dance and piano recital, every softball game and tennis match, and coached both Susan and Miriam to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, cheering them on with enthusiasm.

A true food fanatic, Jay had a special affinity for Korean cuisine, especially mul-naengmyeon, a traditional Korean cold noodle dish that he would never tire of. He was also the lucky recipient of Young's talented cooking skills, and she delighted in preparing meals for him each and every day.

Jay was an avid traveler and rescue-certified SCUBA diver who explored the world, with Cancun, Mexico, holding a special place in his heart. He loved animals and often brought home stray dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens, creating a lively household filled with love and care for all creatures. Despite his many interests and accomplishments, Jay was also known for his stubbornness, a trait that his loved ones remember with a smile. He possessed an unwavering intensity, a fiery spirit and a wicked sense of humor.

Jay is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 44 years, Young Yoo, and their two daughters, Susan Yoo (Derek Schwede) and Miriam Yoo (Ryan Cooper). Susan and Derek are blessed with a daughter, Emilia, and recently welcomed their newborn son, Simon, in July. Jay also leaves behind his cherished sisters, Namhee, Sunhee, and Kunghee, as well as his brothers, Joon Ha and Joon Ho. He took immense pride in his family, finding great joy in their accomplishments and happiness.

Jay's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched as a physician, mentor, colleague and friend. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Jay's life will be held on September 14, 2024 at 2PM at the Rio Bravo Country Club in Bakersfield, CA. Kindly RSVP by August 31 to missyoo6@gmail.com if you plan to attend.