Raymond Wong

Raymond Quong Wong 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, March 19, 2012. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Bernice Lee Wong, brothers Chuck, Wallace, Ernest, and sisters Rosemary and Jeanette. He is survived by his children Dennis and wife Jean, Diana, Deborah and husband Fred Buehler, Doreena and wife Jenny Pizer, granddaughter Casey Wong-Buehler, sisters Elaine, Lois, and Marian, and a large extended family. Ray was born on March 17, 1916 in a village outside of Guangzhou, China to Wong Hung Jee and Wong Lew Shee, publisher of the first Chinese-language newspaper in San Francisco Chinatown. As a young man, Ray was educated in both San Francisco and China. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1941 from UC Berkeley, where he studied agricultural economics, cultivated his love of opera, and taught English to Chinese-speaking students. He became widely known and loved for offering a warm welcome and practical help to Chinese newcomers, including business advice and assistance with government filings. He founded one of the first insurance companies in San Francisco Chinatown, which later became Lee, Wong and Leong on Waverly Street. He remained a successful and beloved presence in Chinatown well into his 70's. Born in the year of the Dragon, Ray was a charismatic and generous influence within his family. He was an avid cook and loved preparing meals for family and friends. Always the life of the party, he was a passionate mahjong player and gregarious storyteller. We will miss his laughter and wonderful sense of humor. A private ceremony will be held at the Neptune Columbarium, where his remains will be placed with those of his beloved wife. A memorial dinner for family and friends will be held at 6 pm on Saturday, March 31, 2012 at the Hung To Seafood Restaurant, 221 South Spruce Avenue in South San Francisco. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.