Ying B. Tomm

On Thursday, April 16th, 2020, Ying B. Tomm, widow and father of two children, passed away at the age of 80. Ying, commonly known as “Ben” or “Benny”, was born on February 24th, 1940 in Guangzhou, China (formerly known as Canton) to Mr. and Mrs. Wing Tom (Nee Lee). He emigrated from China to the United States during early childhood, graduated from Seward Park High School in NYC, and eventually earned his Architectural degree from the Pratt Institute, also in NYC. On September 12th, 1965, he married Amy Eng. Together, they reared two children, Cynthia and David.

Ben owned his own business for the majority of his career and eventually he and wife Amy partnered in architectural and construction work. Outside of work, Ben had a passion for playing the violin and originally wished to pursue a career in music; though he became an Architect, music was an enduring hobby and he spent years both playing in as well as serving as a Board of Trustees member to the New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra. He also enjoyed photography, boating, and volleyball - a sport he enjoyed through participation with the NY Vikings, a team that regularly competes in the North American Chinese Invitational Volleyball Tournament. Ben will perhaps be remembered for his welcoming nature, invitations to large feast-like dinners, and his willingness to help and mentor others.

Ben was preceded in death by his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Tom, as well as his wife, Amy. He is survived by his two children, Cynthia and David, both of Hilliard, OH, four grandchildren (Carson Creeger-Tom, Addison Creeger-Tom, Colton Creeger-Tom, and Izzy Jao), two first cousins (Kit Gong of Bloomington, IL and Sophie Der, of Chicago, IL) and paternal nieces (Sonya Gong of Bloomington, IL, Debra Gong of New Bern, NC) and a paternal nephew (Keith Gong, of Bristol, TN). A funeral service will not be held but a repast will be held once safe travel and communion can resume. Donations for Ben can be made to the New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra. Please see the Ben Tomm Tribute page on the NJIO home page: www.njio.org