Fong Lee

Fong LeeFong Lee passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his beloved wife and family on August 6th, 2016 at the age of 94. Though Fong was a man of few words, his actions reflected his bottomless heart. A much loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Fong's spirit will live on in all of us who had the honor of knowing him.Fong Lee was born in Taishan, China. In 1932, at the age of 10, Fong came alone to Seattle with a dream for a better life. Despite knowing no one, unable to speak the language and a nearly empty wallet, Fong quickly proved his perseverance, and immeasurable work ethic, traits which would come to describe him throughout his life. Fong initially found work as a houseboy, working long hours in his new country. His hard work paid off and he was able to purchase his own businesses; first, a dry cleaner, then opening the Jade Pagoda restaurant on Broadway, followed by another dry cleaner and a TV repair service later on. He worked at the dry cleaner during the day and cooked at his restaurant at night, sending much of what he earned back to his home village in China.In 1954, Fong returned to China and married Gina and brought her back to Seattle. From their marriage they raised four children. And he instilled the importance of education so much so that all four children graduated from college. In addition to raising his children, Fong used his mechanical aptitude to be proudly employed at the Boeing company for over 30 years (retiring in 1988), while also working at his rental properties and the dry cleaner next to his home in the evenings.Fong was lucky enough to be blessed with two great loves in his life. In 1990, Fong married Lily following the passing of Gina.Once retired, Fong remained extremely active, hosting and cooking Thanksgiving and Christmas family dinners, traveling, and babysitting his grandchildren. Fong's love and loyalty for his family and friends never faltered. Fong is survived by his wife, Lily, and children: Leonard, Herman, Kevin (Priscilla), Suzanne (David Pang). He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Agnes and Ada, and grandchildren: Jenna, Tracy, Kaylene, Marcus. He was preceded in death by first wife Gina.Our family would like to thank you for your love, and support during this time. The family which Fong nurtured and both the life long & recent friends he made during his life is a testament to Fong's full and joyful life.Remembrances can be made in Fong's honor to: Chew Lun Benevolent Association - New Building Fund, P.O. Box 14618, 409 Maynard Ave. So., Suite 109, Seattle, WA 98104.