Liu Yuxi, a veteran who has devoted his life to serving others, passed away in a hospital in Huzhou, Zhejiang province at the age of 94 on Tuesday and his last wish — donating his body to medical research — has been fulfilled by his family, Chinanews.com reported on Wednesday.
Liu had the idea of donating his body after death back in 1998 and registered for body donation in 2004 in the company of his son.
On a copy of the inside page of his donation certificate, Liu wrote "I consider transplanting healthy organs to living people after death a continuation of my own life. I hope more comrades would participate in this great cause."
His body was transferred to Nanjing in Jiangsu province after a memorial service on Tuesday night.
Originally from Henan province, Liu fought over 100 battles during his military life. He participated in the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53).
In 1958 Liu left military service and started his 32 years of radio career in Huzhou's Changxing county.
"The impact of the radio station can't be overstated, be it during the war or in peace time. It's an important medium to convey the Party's ideas and maintain close ties with the people," Liu once said, according to a report by tianmunews.com.
After retirement in December 1990, he stayed actively involved in research of the history of the New Fourth Army and in activities for young people to learn about the history. "Many soldiers fell for the peace and freedom we have today. We must cherish it," he has said.