James Kui Bong Fong's Obituary
James “Jimmy” Kui Bong Fong, beloved patriarch of the Fong ‘ohana, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2023, at 94. He was the thirteenth child of sixteen children and raised in Honolulu, Hawai`i. He was born on July 6, 1928. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He graduated from Kamehameha Schools in Honolulu, Hawai’i. Jimmy served in the U.S. Army and stationed in Japan. He graduated from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. In August 1951, Jimmy married his sweetheart, Muriel Lung.
Jimmy and his siblings founded Sealy Mattress of Hawai’i. He and others (with the support of their wives) founded the Wai-Kahala Athletic Club (little league baseball that included girls). Jimmy served his community in many ways. If there was anyone who left the world a better place, it was surely Jimmy and Muriel.
Preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Muriel Lung; his parents, Elizabeth Alina Say and Fong Hing; and his siblings (and spouses): Albert KH (Roberta), Harold KW (Beatrice), Charles KK (Betty), Elizabeth (Edward) Lim, Clarence KB (Thelma); Raymond KB; Ella (Clarence) Lam, Leonard KM (Margaret), Vivian (Patrick) Lee, Audrey (Albert) Vierra; and hanai toddler son, Tony. He is survived by three siblings: Lorraine Lau, Mildred Wong, Kenneth (Linda); a brother-in-law, Dr. Walter Lung; a sister-in-law Harriet; six children: Randy (Marta); Darbi (Kevin) Akagi; Marlene (Steven) Harker; Russell (Sheree); Carol (Ed) Vierra; Sharilyn (Dan) Akiyama; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews, and Roo (furry companion).
Memorial Services on Friday, April 14, 2023, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints-Kahala Ward, at 4847 Kilauea Avenue, Honolulu, Hawai`i. Visitation: 10:30–11:30 am. Private Family Prayer: 11:30 am. Celebration of Life: 12 noon. Burial: 2:00 pm at Diamond Head Memorial Park, 529 18th Avenue, Honolulu, Hawai’i.
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