Alex S Kwong's Obituary
Obituary
Alex Shee Shiu Kwong
October 19, 1941 to July 29, 2022
Alex Shee Shiu Kwong 鄺樹韶 was born on October 19, 1941* in Toi-San, Canton, China to the late Kai Fong and King Oi Yee. He was born in the middle of World War II – and with bombs dropping on their village, his mother (King Oi Yee) would often have to run for the mountains with Alex as a baby tied to her back. Being a war baby instilled in him a streak of resilience and optimism that he would carry throughout life.
When Alex was ten years old, the Kwong/Fong family (Fong = Kwong in the Toi-San dialect) immigrated to Hong Kong. Being from a village in China, he knew no English. However, with the help of his cousin, he learned the ABC’s in less than one year and would go on to test into and attend Diocesan Boys School – one of the most academically rigorous and prestigious boys’ high schools in Hong Kong.
Alex continued his studies at the University of Hong Kong - New Asia College (1967), majoring in business. He then immigrated to the United States to attend UC Berkeley for graduate school – where he obtained a Master’s degree. GO BEARS!!!
After his graduate studies, he accepted a job at the University of Singapore as a lecturer and that is where he met his lovely wife, Frances Suk-Ching Chau – who was on vacation and visiting a friend at the time. He told her his mother was still residing in Hong Kong and how he planned on moving back there. He asked for her phone number and as they say the rest is history!
Alex and Frances were married on June 14, 1974 and immigrated to San Francisco, CA that September. The following years were filled with many milestones and happy life events. One year later, his parents immigrated to the United States. In 1978, Frances and Alex decided to buy a house and set down roots in the gorgeous ocean town of Pacifica.
Over the years, Alex’s professional path took him to explore many facets of finance including careers in both banking and real estate.
In 1980, Alex and Frances welcomed their first child, Jackie Kwong. In 1985, they had their second child, Victoria Kwong. Alex ABSOLUTELY loved being a dad and would spoil his kids in the Chinese way – through food, snacks and all that is delectable in life. He was a wonderful father and was there for every school play, girls scouts activity, teacher’s conference, and treasured every art project his kids made. He would instill in his kids a love of art/music, laughter and the importance of family.
Family was a cornerstone in Alex’s life and always took the time to visit his immediate family two hours away in Sacramento - his parents, sister (Jane Yee) and older brother (Kenneth Wong). Tradition was huge for Alex and even after his parents and siblings passed away, he would take the time to make the trip to Sacramento for “Qingming” and give them offerings/blessings. He also made every effort to visit and keep in touch with his extended family who lived in San Francisco and Sacramento- Uncle Shek, Aunt Gim, Uncle Victor, Aunt Florence and beloved cousins.
As a big hearted, social butterfly, Alex loved getting together with family and friends. Even in retirement, Alex had different activities for every day of the week from college alumni dim sum lunches to tai chi and art/music lessons.
Always the curious learner in life, Alex loved reading, was always on top of the latest news, and had a penchant for debating world politics and events. Alex’s contagious laughter and smile is what many of us remember him by – may we never forget the happiness, sense of humor and joy he brought to all of our lives.
Alex is survived by his wife, Frances; his daughters Jackie Kwong and Victoria Kwong; and his grandchildren Wesley Boquiren Kwong and Kayla Laim. Alex also has one future granddaughter to be born in August/September 2022.
A memorial and celebration of life ceremony is to be held for Alex on August 14, 2022 (Sunday) at 11:00am at Skylawn Memorial (Highway 92 and Skyline Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94402).
Alex's burial will be held the following day in Sacramento at East Lawn Memorial Park (4300 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: CANHR (California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform), 1803 6th St, Berkeley, CA 94710. CANHR provides invaluable advice/guidance to individuals and families navigating the complex space of elder care and nursing homes. Please note on check: "In memory of Alex S. Kwong" or use the link below:
What’s your fondest memory of Alex?
What’s a lesson you learned from Alex?
Share a story where Alex's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Alex you’ll never forget.
How did Alex make you smile?