Maria Remedios Bello Hong

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Remedios B. Hong, who left us on June 26, 2025, in North Vancouver, British Columbia. At 83, Maria faced a brief but brave battle with rapidly progressive neurocognitive decline, approaching it with the same strength and dignity that defined her remarkable life.

Mom was cherished by so many and known by her various loving names: Warty, Manang Wart, Mutti, Remy or Maria.

Born on April 26, 1942, to the late Silvestre Brilliantes Bello Sr. and Remedios Aguila Hernando, Maria was a woman of formidable intellect and unwavering conviction. She was known for her proud and stubborn spirit, qualities that fueled her successful career and rich personal life.

Maria embarked on a distinguished career as a trade officer for the Philippine Embassy, serving with strategic acumen in Switzerland from 1972 to 1980 and then in Paris, France, from 1980 to 1984. Her contributions in these roles were significant, reflecting her dedication and sharp mind.

Later, as the devoted wife of career diplomat Mark Soon Tat Hong, Maria embraced a new chapter of global engagement. Together, they navigated life in international settings, including New York, and notably Moscow, where Maria played a pivotal role in organizing impactful charity events alongside other embassies. Her ability to connect with people and foster community was truly extraordinary.

Beyond her professional and diplomatic endeavors, Maria cultivated a rich tapestry of interests. She found tranquility in her garden, joy in lively Scrabble matches with her beloved husband, and endless fascination within the pages of history, politics, and intellectual non-fiction. An avid traveler, she delighted in exploring new cultures and delving into the past of every place she visited. Maria also shared a special bond with dogs and was a deeply devoted member of the Catholic Church, always ensuring her support for children's charities wherever she was stationed or living.

Maria was predeceased by her loving husband, Mark Soon Tat Hong; her parents; and siblings Silvester Bello Jr. and Catherine Pia H. Bello.

She leaves to mourn her passing, her cherished children, Alexander Mark Hong, Joseph Gerard Cuenca (Maria Dulce Amba), and Catherine Elizabeth Bossert (Jarin George Bossert). She is also survived by her siblings: Leticia B. Rivera, Anunciacion B. Rodas, Rebecca B. Lim, Silvestre Bello II, Bernadette B. Poulton, Silvestre Bello III, and Maria Yvonne B. Aquino, along with a wide circle of extended family and friends who will forever remember her intellectual curiosity and generous spirit.

A Funeral Mass will be held on July 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Edmund's Parish, 545 Mahon Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2R7.

A Celebration of Mom’s life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 1:00 PM at First Memorial Funeral Services & Boal Chapel and Memorial Gardens,1505 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7J 2J1