Chinese American connector built deep ties in Latino community, mentoring others and supporting civic causes across San Francisco
by Marvin Ramírez, with reports by Paula Fiscal
The sudden passing of Johnson Hor on March 29, 2026, has left a profound void in San Francisco’s Latino community and beyond, where he was widely known as a connector, advisor, and tireless advocate for others.
Hor, 53, died unexpectedly just hours after continuing to assist colleagues and community members late into the night—an ending that reflected the same dedication that defined his life.
A memorial service held April 4 at the Neptune Society in the city of Belmont drew hundreds of mourners, including friends, family, business leaders, and community advocates, all gathering to honor a man whose impact reached across sectors and communities.
Though Chinese American, Hor built strong and lasting ties within the Latino community, where he collaborated with local leaders, supported advocacy efforts, and advised individuals on business, civic, and organizational matters.
He was known not only for his knowledge, but for how he connected with people. At times, when spoken to in Spanish, he would respond just as naturally—gracefully—reflecting both respect and genuine connection with the community he served.
Hor’s career spanned multiple industries, including finance, energy, public health, and civic systems. He advised institutions on operations, risk, data systems, and regulatory frameworks, and worked with organizations such as JPMorgan Chase, First Republic Bank, and Chevron. He was also a member of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar and contributed pro bono legal and regulatory work. He founded Shoebox Ventures®, a nonprofit consultancy designed to bridge corporate expertise with community impact, helping launch nonprofits and support small businesses.
In addition to his professional work, Hor remained deeply engaged in civic service. He served as a Local Board Chair for the Selective Service System in San Francisco.
Tributes from across the community reflected the breadth of his influence.
“I’ve known Johnson for over 25 years. He was like a brother to me,” said Paula Fiscal. “He was an inspiration and shared his enthusiasm with everyone he met. His life affected thousands of people worldwide.”
“Johnson was one of the brightest people I’ve ever met,” said Jose Ramos. “He was always there for his family, friends, and the community at large. He will be dearly missed.”
Archbishop Gregory Richardson described Hor as “the foundation for the community,” adding that “he had love in his heart and a dream that included everyone. He will be missed, but never forgotten.”
Roger Cárdenas, a longtime community organizer, recalled Hor’s role in civic efforts such as the campaign to preserve St. Luke’s Hospital, where his work supported large-scale community mobilization.
Mabel Chan, who met Hor during the pandemic through professional networks, remembered him as a mentor who encouraged bold thinking.
“He told me to think big and do great things,” she said. “He believed in people, sometimes before they believed in themselves.”
Friends say Hor’s legacy lies not only in his professional achievements, but in the people he uplifted. He mentored entrepreneurs, supported community initiatives, and offered guidance freely to those who sought his help.
A family member shared that Hor had learned in the months before his passing that he was facing a serious illness, though few details were made public.
Despite his accomplishments, Hor remained humble and grounded. He often spoke with humor about his identity as an American-born Chinese and took pride in caring for his mother in recent years.
For many in San Francisco’s Latino community, Johnson Hor will be remembered not only as an advisor or connector, but as someone who truly showed up—with respect, generosity, and heart.
He is survived by his wife, Amy, along with a wide network of friends, colleagues, and community members who continue to carry forward his values of mentorship, service, and connection.
– The staff of El Reportero, together with their editor Marvin Ramírez, offer their most sincere condolences to the family and friends on the loss of their loved one, Johnson Hor.
