Richard Jun Chong Wong's Obituary
Eulogy for Richard Jun Chong Wong; as written by Richard Jun Chong Wong
Richard was born on Aug 23, 1930 to Alice and Bernard Wong. He grew up in the Palama neighborhood and later moved up the street when his parents bought two homes. He attended Iolani School for 12 years, graduating in 1948. Then on to University of Hawaii where he graduated in 1952 with a BBA degree and a commission as 2ndLt n the USAF. Called to active duty in Aug, he married Julia Mark on his rotation to Shaw AFB, S.C. in Jan of 1954.
They had three children there and he was sent to Univ of Colo to obtain a Masters degree in Management. Upon graduating with the highest honors of obtaining a perfect 4.0 grade point, he was sent to the AF Weapons Lab in Kirtland AFB, N.M. From there it was transfer to Andrews AFB, Wash, D.C. to Systems Command HQ. Selected for the Joint Staff College, family moved to Norfolk, VA and from there to Hickam AFB, HI. In 1968, he volunteered for duty in Viet Nam and was the Director Personnel for the 14th Special Operations Wing at Nha Trang, RVN. He rotated back to Hq, PACAF at Hickam where he retired in Dec 1973 with the rank of Colonel.
Decorations earned included the Legion of Merit, AF Commendation medal with two oak leaf clusters, AF Outstanding Unit Award and Bronze Star.
Richard was a life long Christian and enjoyed his affiliation with the Leeward Community Church and the Community Church of Honolulu. As son-in-law of Reverend Stephen G. Mark, he felt he had to uphold the ministry of his father-in-law. He was devoted to his wife Julia who blessed their life together. He is survived by two sons, David and Michael, two grandsons Kevin and Kyle, and two granddaughters from his deceased daughter Sandra. (Julia remains in a care home in the final stages of Alzheimer.)
Celebration of Life services for Richard will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at the Community Church of Honolulu (2345 Nuuanu Avenue); visitation from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m., with service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Private Committal service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific - Punchbowl at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?