Robert "Bob" Tong

Robert Turner Tong, Bob, 88, of Largo, Florida passed away on June 21, 2023. He was born on August 24, 1934, in Derby, Connecticut. He married his High School sweetheart and the love of his life Elene in 1957. Bob served in the military as a medic with Elene joining him in Spokane, Washington where they began their life together.

The Tongs moved to Largo in 1967 with their two sons Dale and Mark. They established and operated Tong Realty, Inc., a successful real estate company in Largo, for over 35 years. Bob was a founding director of the Indian Rocks State Bank in Largo and mentored and coached other local entrepreneurs. He had great instincts in playing the stock market and enjoyed watching the results of his investments.

Bob and Elene enjoyed her family home in Seymour, Connecticut as a seasonal residence during their later years. They had a love for travel, nature and people. Bob had a quick wit, big heart, generous nature. Where he saw a need he would strive to meet it. These traits and his spontaneous sense of humor made our world a better place.

Robert is survived by his two sons, Dale (Eileen) of Largo, and Mark (Lee) of Indian Rocks Beach. He was preceded in death by his wife Elene, brother Albert, and sisters Mary, Esther, and Dot.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 28th at Serenity Funeral Home, 13401 indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Jerome's Catholic Church, 10895 Hamlin Blvd, Largo, FL 33774 on Thursday, June 29th, at 1 p.m. with interment to follow at Serenity Gardens Memorial Park.

McGough Park was a special place for Bob and Elene. They came to know all of the birds and donated to their care. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Friends of Largo Nature Park, 11901 146th Street, Largo, Florida 33774.