John C. Fong

Of Sacramento, California peacefully entered into eternal rest Sunday, November 27, 2011 in the Asian Community Nursing Home.

Born in Canton China, October 24, 1923 to Houck Pang and Mui Sau Fong. John immigrated to the United States in 1939, settling in Peoria, Illinois. He worked for Caterpillar as a machinist and worked at the Oriental Cafe as a chef with his father. Later he bought and co-owned a restaurant called the Bamboo Inn. At the age of 25, John went back to Canton, China and married Judy (York Sour Yee) at the American Consulate in 1947. He had to leave China without his wife for seven years before they were reunited in 1954. During his educational years, he met and befriended a soon-to-be Congressman, Robert H. Michael. Congressman Michael developed a special relationship with John and helped him navigate the political and legal obstacles of immigration in order to get all of his family over to the United States. In 1972, John and his wife Judy moved the family to Sacramento, California to be closer to his relatives. in Sacramento he owned and operated Danny's Cafe and worked at Country Maid Restaurant until his retirement.

John believed strongly in family, family values and was not hesitant to make sacrifices for his family. He loved friends of all backgrounds and enjoyed having them participate in family functions...as he often said "the more the merrier and never a dull moment." He lived his life by setting great examples and sharing his knowledge and wisdom through positive messages. One of his main messages was "it can be done, don't give up too quickly and you will find a way to achieve what ever goal you set for yourself." He enjoyed creating and cooking gourmet meals. He loved to bake and share with family and friends. Most of all he loved his job as being a loving grandfather to 18 grandchildren. He loved having his grandchildren all around the house anytime.

John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Judy: nine children, Lim (Anne), Jain (Amy), Sonny (Julie), Sam (Cindy), Jackie Crittendon (Ken), Joy Perez (Steve), Bill (Veesna), Jone, Julia Gross (Al), and 18 grandchildren.

Brother to Stephen Fong (Lynne), Leslie Fong (Jane), Janey Mar (James)

Family and friends are invited to the wake between 4 and 6 PM on Saturday, December 3, 2011 and to funeral services on Sunday, December 4th at 1:30 PM in the afternoon at Harry A. Nauman & Son , Land Park Funeral Chapel, 4041 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento. Burial to follow at East Lawn Memorial Park, 4300 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento. All are invited to Fortune House following graveside services.