

"A life well-lived is measured not by the years, but by the love shared, the lives touched, and the legacy left behind."
Obituary
In Loving Memory of James Hogan
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of James Hogan, who left us on 21st February, 2025. Born in Dublin on 14th February, 1965, James was a beacon of warmth, wisdom, and kindness, touching the lives of everyone he met.
James was a devoted husband to Josie, his partner in life and his greatest source of strength. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, adventure, and shared dreams across the globe, eventually settling in Hong Kong, the city they called home. Their journey was one of unwavering companionship, resilience, and countless cherished memories.
Professionally, James was a leader of remarkable integrity and vision. Over his 32-year career at HSBC, he rose to become Chief Operating Officer for the Asia Pacific Commercial Banking division. His journey took him across the globe, living and working in Hong Kong, Dubai, Jakarta, Baghdad, Singapore, Bangkok, Mumbai, London, New York, and Sydney—each city a chapter in his extraordinary story. Every place left its mark on him, and in turn, he left an indelible impression on the people and communities he touched. Most recently, he was CEO of the Asia Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA). Beyond his professional roles, James served on the AustCham Hong Kong Board, where he contributed to strengthening ties between Hong Kong and Australia with his characteristic dedication and generosity.
But James was so much more than his titles. He was a mentor, a guide, and a friend to all. He had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued, always taking the time to share his wisdom, offer encouragement, and lend a helping hand. His door was always open, and his advice was always given with patience and care.
Above all, James was a gentleman in the truest sense. His infectious warmth, his ever-present smile, and his unwavering moral compass left an enduring impression on everyone he met. Whether sharing his love for rugby, his Irish pride, or simply a kind word, James had a way of making the world feel brighter.
As we mourn this immense loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life James led. His legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and an unyielding commitment to the people and communities he served. James will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, dear James. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts.
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It is so difficult to reconcile myself to the sudden loss of such a dear, kind and charming friend. No words can express the sadness that I feel.
You will always be in my heart, and I am sure, in the hearts of so many of your good friends. You are always so welcoming, with your shining, cheerful smile (so typical of you), that makes everyone feel so comfortable and at ease. You are a gentle-man to the truest sense, gentle, kind, warm and loving. You are always so positive, never fail to look at the bright side of people and things. You are so energetic, so ready to give. I still recall vividly your enthusiasm when you take the initiative to give me suggestions how I can help contribute through, amongst others, some voluntary working groups that you have participated in.
My prayers are with you and Josie. I trust you are now resting in the loving embrace of our Lord. Until we meet again (and I am sure you will then greet me with your big, lovely smile), you will be dearly missed.
James enjoyed attending AustCham events, often being the first to sign up to initiatives of strategic importance, and to those which were a lot of fun. I remember his absolute delight at the hosting of AustCham Melbourne Cup events and the great fun he brought to that day. He always made a point at any event he attended to share his compliments to the team, and to make anyone attending feel welcome.
James was always a gentleman, ready with a quick smile and a kind word. I often sought out James' advice and he was so thoughtful in his guidance.
James will be deeply missed by all members of the Chamber who had the opportunity to know him. I will remember him for his friendship, advice, laughter and love of a good time. My thoughts are with Josie, his family and friends.
Stefanie
Chief Executive, 2021-2024



You have been a very special friend to me, sir, ever since our first meeting in HK in October 1987. You have infected me with your full celebration of life. Constancy, generosity, kindness, and gentleness have been the hallmarks of our friendship over the many intervening years and in so many settings. That shared Celtic link, the great traditions of the HSBC IO/IM cadre. As you did with others, you brought out the best in me. The world is a better place because of you, my friend. Partly because it is more joyful, and also since you always tried to do the right thing.
Where you have gone, do wait up for me, James. When I get there the first round is on me!
Yours Very Truly
IBG
Iain Guthrie
Auckland, New Zealand

I will especially remember your kindness and warmth, your generosity and unwavering loyalty towards friends, your gentle humour and even your idiosyncratic golf swing! More than anything I will remember your radiant smile, which lit up everywhere you went.
Shine on and rest well dear friend.
It is with profound sadness that we at the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong learn of the passing of James Hogan. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.
James was an integral part of our community, serving on the AustCham Hong Kong Board with dedication and generosity.
Beyond his professional achievements, James was a true gentleman, known for his warmth, kindness, and infectious smile. His presence enriched the lives of everyone he met, and his legacy will continue to inspire us.
We are honored to have had James as part of our community, and we will deeply miss his guidance and camaraderie.
Rest in peace, James. Your memory will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
With deepest condolences,
Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong




I am so glad we have them of you.
Love the Hogan Brian and Grainne ❤️ Bon Voyage until we meet again James 💚🍀💚 Happy Paddies Day 💚☘️💚















Jamie Thomas and John Cheah
I recently had the greatest pleasure of seeing both James and Josie just a few months ago, I fondly remember that night, which was filled with laughter and meaningful conversations, I am forever grateful that I was able to share that moment with James before his passing.
You will be dearly missed, James.

I had the privilege of knowing James for over 20 years through his wonderful wife Josie. He always had a way of bringing comfort and encouragement to those who needed it most.
He truly embodied integrity and grace—a gentleman in every sense of the word. His warmth was infectious, his smile a source of reassurance, and his guidance always delivered with wisdom and compassion. His absence will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
Rest in peace, James.
Rest in Peace James .
Deirdre , Willie and Ben
From the moment I met him in 2003, it was clear he was special. We shared the same employer and parents-in-law. He always wore a big smile, no matter the occasion. His warmth, kindness, and sense of humour made everyone feel welcome. Whether through his generosity, support, or ability to bring laughter, James had a way of bringing people together.
His sudden passing leaves a void, but we hold onto the joy he brought us—the laughter, the memories, and the love he shared. Those gifts will stay with us always.
Yoonjung and I still cannot believe that you are no longer with us. The friendship that we had with you and Josie
is one the greatest blessings of my assignment to Hong Kong.
It is difficult to put into words what we will miss about you. All the laughter and cherished memories in the past and all the memories that could have been. Rest in peace my dear friend.
With great affection and sorrow,
Sungmahn, Yoonjung & Jungmin




Thailand is particularly full of memories of an active life lived to the full, which summarised his whole 60 years on this planet. A trip to the Banks Hua Hin beach house with his parents and friends from Ireland a highlight, epitomising Jamie’s love for his family. James taking control of ordering food again on a trip to Hua Hin, demonstrating his prowess of the Thai language, only for us to be served raw vegetables instead of stir-fried ones. His work drawer full of the keys to the bank cars and instant transport for the weekends despite of course not having a driving license. The warmth and simplicity of celebrating New Year’s in Sydney with our children and James and Josie. As many have already said you could go on and on with memories of one of the kindest and warmest human beings you could ever meet. The perennial twinkle in his eyes and that roguish smile, it seems so unreal that we won’t see it again, but you will always be with us in our memories.
To dear Josie, the love of Jamie’s life and perfect life partner, we cannot imagine the loss you must feel, only that it is far beyond that which we feel, which is already too much. You are in our thoughts and hearts and we hope to catch up with you soon.











James and I worked together at the start of the 90s in Hong Kong, became greats buddies immediately and just carried on! We had many great times… climbing Mount Kenya with Simon and Ewan; I was one of the ushers at his wonderful wedding to the lovely Josie; James then returning the favour as my Best Man when I married Viji, and so on and so on. I have more stories and anecdotes about ‘Hogey’ than any other friend, a reflection of his zest for life and his wonderful sense of fun.






I remember a time when I was struggling with decisions on my career. James would take the time to share his own experience and offer advice when I needed it. Even when he was not helping others, James was always good company and a friendly face. I fondly remember the meals we had together whenever James and Josie visited Sydney.
Uncle James will be dearly missed by us all.
Fiona and Harry


It’s hard to put into words how much you’ve meant to us since you became part of our family back in 2003. You weren’t just a brother-in-law—you were family in every sense of the word. You had this incredible way of making everyone feel amazed, whether it was through sharing the stories of your world adventures, your jokes or speaking Thai. We will miss the chatting and laughing over bottles of wines during Saturday dinners.
Losing you has left a hole in our hearts, but the love, wisdom, and kindness you brought into our lives will stay with us forever.
You were the definition of a true gentleman. You were so patient with our parents, even with the language barrier. You even took the time to talk to their two helpers to smooth the tension and disagreement between them. Your advice always carried so much weight, and we all looked up to you for it.
To your nephews, you were so much more than an uncle. You were their mentor, their role model, and their biggest inspiration. You took the time to guide them, to share your wisdom, and to teach them what it means to be kind, resilient, and true to themselves. You didn’t just talk the talk—you lived it, and because of that, your influence will keep shaping their lives in ways you probably never even imagined.
And then there was Josie. The love you two shared was something truly special. You were her partner in every sense of the word, and the way you cared for her was evident in everything you did. Your life together was filled with so much laughter, dreams, and unwavering support. Even though you’re not here with us anymore, the love you had for her will always be there, wrapping her up like a warm, comforting hug.
As we say goodbye, we’re holding onto the fact that your spirit lives on in all of us. Your love, your wisdom, your compassion—they’re all still here, guiding us and reminding us of the incredible person you were. You’ll always be a light in our lives, James.
Rest easy, dear James. You were a gentleman, a mentor, a loving husband, and such a cherished part of our family. Even though your time here has come to an end, the mark you’ve left on all of us will last for generations. We’ll carry you in our hearts always, until we see you again.
With all our love,
Jennifer, Peter, Joan and Rupert


In my time of greatest need James was there for me. Supportive and generous with his time. I was fortunate to cross paths with him and will remember him with great fondness.
To his wife , family and close friends I offer my sincere condolences. RIP James.
You have been an unwavering support for my dear friend Josie, and although our conversations were few, I could see your profound impact on her. Your kindness, wisdom, and nurturing spirit radiate through Josie's joyful sparkles and carefree demeanor.
As we gather to celebrate your life, please know that you will be deeply missed. Your legacy of love and compassion will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts.
With heartfelt love,
Fiona


James, you will be remembered for your kindness, warmth and positivity, the instant smile on your face and spring in your step…
What a great friend, a thorough gentleman and a wonderful human being !
You will be missed.🙏
I first knew James when he married Josie.
He was great company and had an Irish sense of humour. Josie and James were obviously very devoted to each other.
James had a very successful career in HSBC. He loved Hong Kong and he and Josie chose to retire in Hong Kong.
My deepest condolences to Josie and her and James’s families.
A life well lived but tragically cut short.
This is such a hard message to write. As everyone has said, you were always a trail blazer. We, in the "Dartry Hogans", always relished hearing the latest updates on your amazing adventures. From the HSBC bootcamp, where you were first identified as a star candidate, to your latest posting in exotic locations in Asia and the Far and Middle East, not the least of which was your time in Iraq, just after the war ended setting up a new banking infrastructure. All of which depended on your drive, energy and focus to complete the mission, trailing paths of glory as you invariably did.
I remember vividly our camping trips on the Wicklow mountains as kids, setting off on our Raleigh 20s, laden with gear, weaving our way up the hills. Such happy memories.
I will never forget your glorious wedding with Josie in Hong Kong, the trip on the Junk after, quaffing champagne all day and ending the night in the glamour of the Hong Kong club at twilight.
It was always such a pleasure for myself and Gary to host you in London whenever you visited, lots of good wine, chat, laughter and yarns.
Also, your interest and kindness to our James was so important to us, but most of all to him.
While you have left us far, far too early, and there was still so much for you to achieve and life to live and love to give and receive, you have packed more into your life than most could ever dream of.
Good night, sweet Jamie, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Though we didn’t have the chance to meet as often as I would have liked, the times we did were filled with warmth and laughter. I was so grateful for the moments we shared, from when we were all in London to your time in New York and your visit to San Diego not long ago. We were looking forward to playing golf together at Torrey Pines on your next trip, a plan that will remain a cherished thought.
No matter the distance, your presence was always felt, and when I close my eyes, I will forever remember your big, warm, assuring smile and that unmistakable, charming chuckle. May you continue to smile down on Josie and all of us who were lucky enough to know you. Rest easy, James—don’t worry, we will take good care of Josie.
With love,
Xiaosong and Tuan
I will remember you for the impactful and adventurous life you led. You were the James Bond, international man of mystery, posted to far flung cities all over the world. You had an incredible curiosity to learn from others, and your cultural sensitivity was unparalleled. Every family occasion I remember was always filled with your easy smile, the chuckle and sometimes guffaw, that devilish twinkle in your eye and that Hogan charm. You possessed a devout love and respect for your parents; you always made time to speak to an aunt and made them feel special. You looked after younger family members who were struggling. You were a proud Irishman, and no matter how many years had passed since you left Dublin, that was a core Hogan trait never to be erased. You were always a gentleman, a quality so absolutely lovely and a role model for the boys on how to stand up when a lady leaves the table!
Our second family posting in Tokyo in 2017 allowed us to spend more time with you and Josie, either in HK or Japan. You loved the Japanese onsens! We shared many sushi meals and a memorable Rugby World Cup in Tokyo. The kids remember fondly driving from the Peak in Uncle Jamie's new Tesla and thought he was the coolest. We were so looking forward to you coming to visit NYC this June for Aidan's graduation. He will so miss his Godfather and uncle.
I will be holding you and Josie close to my heart, and all the extended Hogan family. You left us too soon, but my goodness, you lived a full life filled with true love and happiness and gave of yourself in so many ways. May your memory be a blessing.













James was a loyal and generous friend and through him we have loved getting to know the love of his life, Josie. He always made the effort to stay in touch across the miles and made you feel as if you were the most important person in the room. He will be sorely missed.
RIP dear friend x









You have been a great friend, a true gentleman, a wise mentor, and an inspiration. You carry the purest positive energy around you while being sensible at all times. It’s such a privilege to know you and spend some time to learn from you. Please rest in peace.




Your warm smile and unwavering support inspired me every day. You taught me to pursue my passions and believe in myself.
Your door was always open, and your listening ear was a source of comfort. You are deeply missed and will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you for everything.

One enduring memory is when James, my wife and I had to leave a black tie event in Jakarta at 11.30pm on 31DEC99 to go into the office to see whether the HSBC’s online banking system Hexagon still worked after Y2K.
At midnight we toasted the new millennium with a glass of whisky before turning on the computers which, of course, worked fine. I have no idea what we were supposed to have done if they hadn’t!
He (and his smile) will be greatly missed.