July 24, 1927 - June 6, 2018
Albert Fong passed away peacefully on June 6, 2018, and joined his beloved wife, Mabel, in Heaven.
Albert was born on July 24, 1927, in Stockton, California, to Gew Ngoy and Ah Hay Fong. He lived in China for seven years and returned to Stockton to complete his high school education at Stockton High School. After high school, Al enlisted and served two years in the United States Navy in Japan during World War II as an Electrician's Mate 3rd Class. Once he arrived back in the U.S., he relocated to San Francisco to attend and graduate from San Francisco City College. He then met his future wife, Mabel, at church. They were married in San Francisco on June 17, 1951, and moved to Stockton to start a family. Douglas, their son, was born shortly after and their daughter, Joanne, arrived eight years later.
Al was a knowledgeable handyman. He single-handedly built a large addition to the family home to provide comfort and space for his growing family. Al had a successful 35-year career with the United States Postal Service where he served as the first Chinese Postal Operations Analyst in Stockton. After retiring at age 55, he found his passion for running. Al ran his first race at the age of 79. He was able to continue running into his early 80's and ran over 1,000 miles each year. During his runs, he visited with many neighbors and strangers alike. Al was also a gifted writer. He wrote an autobiography containing many fascinating stories throughout his years. His imaginative and creative descriptions of major events in his life continue to captivate the spirit of the man he was. Al was a devoted family man who was extremely dedicated to his parents and family. He was a hard-working and honest person who earned the respect of his peers. Al will be greatly missed by his loving family.
Al is preceded in death by his wife, Mabel, his mother, father, and sister, Annie Louie. He is survived by his son, Dr. Douglas (Marcella) Fong of Stockton, daughter, Joanne (Steve) Lee of Mercer Island, Washington, grandchildren, Lisa (Chris) Wheeler of Stockton, Brian (Chan) Fong of Elk Grove, Katie and Cameron Lee of Mercer Island, Washington, great-grandchildren, Michael, Timmy, and Kelly Wheeler, all from Stockton, Benjamin Fong of Elk Grove, sisters, Alice Louie of Benicia and Dorothy Chin of Sacramento, along with many nieces and nephews.
Al's family is extremely grateful to all the staff at Atria Bayside Landing for their unwavering and loving care. They also thank Optimal Hospice for their compassionate support and care. A private family service including full military honors will be held in honor of Al. Visitation will take place at The Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home located at 14165 N. Beckman Road in Lodi, California, on Saturday, June 30, 2018, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations on Al's behalf can be made to Optimal Hospice or charity of choice.
SERVICE
A private interment will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Fong family.
Please add your condolences below.