David Ong

David Graham Ong, 83, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan passed away on October 24, 2025. Born on January 30, 1942, David grew up between Ridgway, Pennsylvania and Allen Park, Michigan where friends knew him as "Downriver Dave." A proud graduate of Allen Park High School, he played football, basketball and baseball. He received the Willie Heston Academic and Athletic Scholarship to the University of Michigan, was proud to be a left-footed kicker and later returned to the University to earn his MBA.

David married the love of his life, Jacqueline Paulus Ong, and stood by her side through every joy and sorrow for more than six decades.

He began his career at National Bank of Detroit in commercial lending where he worked for seven years. He then spent a year with Ford Motor Credit before returning to NBD's mortgage company for eight years. In 1980, he pursued his dream of entrepreneurship and founded Acquest Realty Advisors, a commercial real estate consulting and development firm he led for 45 years. Under his leadership, the company developed numerous full-service hotels and convention centers across the United States.

David's life was defined by faith, humility and a gentle spirit. He was deeply caring, a true friend and a steady source of encouragement and support. He took joy in understanding everything about his children and grandchildren. He loved sports and rarely missed a chance to cheer for his Wolverines, Lions and Tigers. He enjoyed rides in his convertible, loved music and served as a mentor to his family and to many colleagues and employees.

He loved traveling to Siesta Key. He volunteered with Big Brothers, dedicating time and attention to young men who needed a strong male role model. He was a long-time member of St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church, a member of P.O.E.T.S. and a lifetime member of the Detroit Athletic Club.

David believed deeply in education and proudly supported his four children through many years of Catholic school and college. His favorite hobby was his family. He never missed an event, from soccer games to dance recitals, piano and guitar performances, graduations, weddings, births and birthdays.

David is the most loving husband to Jacqueline. He is the devoted father of Kelley Smith (Doug), Molly DeFrancesco (John), Patrick (Michelle) and Katie. He is "Grandpa Dave" to Bailey, Ryan, Kaitlyn, Madison, Michael, Megan, Lauren, Graham, Audry, Allison and Tessa.

He was predeceased by his mother Kathryn Ong, his father Graham Ong and his beloved sister Mary Richardson and her husband Isaac.

Services

Visitation will be held at Desmond Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Road, Troy, MI 48084, on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 1–5 p.m.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church, 2215 Opdyke Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI, 48304, on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m. and mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m.

Memorial Contributions

If you wish to honor David with a gift, please consider a donation to Tessa Ong's 529 College Savings Plan at ugift529.com using code 48S-Z0W or write a check to the TessaOngCollegeFund.