The youngest of five children, Vivian was born on February 14th, 1932 in San Francisco, California to Milton C. Wong and Lee Siu Sen.
Vi, as she was known to friends and family, attended Lowell High School and worked briefly for Pacific Telephone before marrying Richard Tong in 1956. They were married for 60 years. During that time Vivian brought two children into the world, April and Richard. Vivian also raised two boys, Alan and Robert, from Richard’s previous marriage.
Vi was a loving mom and spouse, marvelous cook, and stylish dresser. She had a sly sense of humor and was a passionate democrat. Vivian was a voracious reader of newspapers, magazines, and nonfiction literature, including Chinese history. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, loved gardening, dining out, playing golf and traveling with her beloved husband Richard. Amongst her travels was a memorable trip to her ancestral village in China, but her favorite destinations were Hawaii and Carmel Valley on the Monterey Peninsula, to which she made annual Thanksgiving trips with her nuclear family and their kids for over 25 years.
Vivian is survived by her children, April (David Plath), and Richard (Sophia), her step-sons, Alan and Robert (May), and her four grandchildren, Robbie and Arianna Tong: Haley and Kristin Tong. She also leaves behind dear sister Winifred (Frank Yim).
She is preceded in death by her beloved sister Betty May Wong, and loyal brothers Park Ying Wong and Bill Ying Wong.
Special thanks to daughter April and Neomai, Vivian’s caregiver, for their dedication and loving care over the last four years.
A private memorial service will be held for Vivian in June, and a celebration of life in July. Gifts in Vivian’s memory can donated to the following 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations:
San Rafael Fire and Paramedics Fire Foundation
Friends of China Camp
American Heart Association
Or the Charity of your choice
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