Dr. Ming Chao Gui , 64, Professor of Chinese and Linguistics at the University of Oklahoma passed away Monday, December 13, 2010 in Norman, Oklahoma.

Ming Chao was born on July 1, 1946 in Kunming, Yunan, China to CanKun Gui and MiFen Guo, His father, CanKun Gui , was an established English and Linguistics Professor in China and later served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma for 7 years. Ming Chao went on to follow in his father's foot steps, studying English and Linguistics. On December 2, 1983, he was married to Emily Ye in Canton, China.

Soon after, Ming Chao moved to America to attend the University of Texas in Arlington, where he graduated with his Master's degree in 1985 and his Ph.D. in 1990. In 1994, Ming Chao became a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma teaching Chinese and Linguistics. Through his time at O.U., Ming Chao helped to propel the Chinese enrollment from 46 to the current enrollment of over 430. He also developed the Chinese B.A. program, which is currently listed 3rd out of the 11 foreign language programs, and helped to establish the O.U. Confucius Institute.

Ming Chao has had four books published, as well as hundreds of articles, and was the recipient of numerous awards, including "UOSA Outstanding Faculty Award," and "Cecil W. Woods Memorial Award" for outstanding excellence in teaching. Aside from his successful academic life, Ming Chao enjoyed being with his family and friends, listening to classical music, and traveling.

Ming Chao is survived by his wife, Emily Gui ; son, Mason Gui ; daughters, Rachel Gui and Marion Gui ; sister, Caroline Gui ; and grand-daughter, Talia Ko.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, December 17, 2010 at 10:30 A.M. in the Havenbrook Funeral Home Chapel under the direction of Havenbrook Funeral Home.

Donations can be sent to Republic Bank and Trust, 1200 East Lindsey, Norman, OK 73071, payable to Emily Gui who is establishing a memorial fund in honor of Dr. Ming Chao Gui .