Willie Pong's Obituary
Lived a long and happy life from November 13, 1925 and born in Lorain, Ohio to Chinese immigrants from Southwest of Guangzhou China. He passed away 99 years later from natural causes on December 4, 2024 at his retirement villa in Oceanside CA.
Willie was a proud World War II Navy Veteran, who did his tour of duty in the South Pacific theater, aboard the U.S.S. Sculptor. This ship carried dangerous hi-octane fuel and took in many US Marines for rest and recovery.
The final highlight was receiving the Congressional Gold medal in 2020 for being a Chinese-American Navy War Veteran. We must give much credit and great honor to his military service and our freedom today.
Willie was happily married for 61 years until 2014 to his love of his life, Ruby. They will both be buried eternally together at Greenwood Memorial Park in San Diego CA, where Willie’s parents (Mar Sue Pong and Hom Shee Pong) are also resting.
A Celebration of Life ceremony with full military honors will be held in March/April 2025.
Willie had two sons, Russ and George M. (Mickey) Pong. He also had 4 granddaughters (Erin, Andrea, Sydney, Colby), 2 great granddaughters (Camilla, Alaia) plus another granddaughter expected in January 2025.
We will greatly miss his generosity and contagious smile shared with everyone he touched and loved!
While many will feel emptiness and the loss of his presence, many will find comfort that he rests in a better place.
May Willie Pong's spirit continue to be present in every day of your existence and in every memory you express.
They say that one is forgotten or dies when you allow the memories to fade or go unspoken. Allow yourself time to grieve as this is part of the healing process but never forget that it lies within oneself to live and continue the legacy.
May Willie Pong's soul rest in peace and continue to watch over you and grant you strength.
What’s your fondest memory of Willie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Willie?
Share a story where Willie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Willie you’ll never forget.
How did Willie make you smile?
