C. Y. Hsieh, a pioneering Chinese geologist, was one of the early founders of the China Geological Society. An all- round geologist, he remains unique in his wide range of interests in the field of geological sciences in the Chinese geological community. This paper gives a brief account of his resume, achievements and contributions to Chinese coal petrology and coal geology, soil science, petroleum geology, geology and exploration of U- Th mineral resources, geology of the Western Hill of Beijing, geotectonics of China, mineral deposits, economic geology and geological education. He will forever be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the geology of China.