William Henry Wong

Obituary for William Henry Wong

February 25, 1922 – July 1, 2024

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of William Henry (“Bill”) Wong, who left our world at the extraordinary age of 102 in Baldwin Harbor, Long Island, New York.

A devoted husband, cherished father, beloved grandfather, great-grandfather, WWII war veteran and aviator, he embodied a spirit of love, strength, resilience and conviction that will forever remain in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him.

Born on February 25, 1922 in Buffalo, New York, William lived a life of remarkable distinction and service. He then spent his formative years in Manhattan Chinatown, Massapequa, and finally settled in Baldwin Harbor, Long Island for the past 42 years.

He was the first-born son of six children, all born and raised in New York. His immigrant parents came from China in the pursuit of the American dream, contributing to the construction of the transcontinental railroad system, one of the greatest engineering feats in U.S. history.

As a young man, he bravely answered the call of duty during World War II, serving in the strategic worldwide airlift operation known as the Air Transport Command (U.S. Army Air Forces / USAAF) for the Asia-Pacific Theater (China-India-Burma), famously known as "The Hump," responsible for flying the C-46 Commando to transport and deliver vital supplies and equipment between the United States and the overseas combat theaters. His courage and skill in navigating and surviving the treacherous air routes over the Himalayas Mountain Range were a testament to his unwavering dedication to our country and comrades.

After the war, he pursued aviation flight school training and earned his certifications to become a skilled professional. William continued to soar the skies and dedicated his entire career to Pan American Airways. For 39 years, he served as a flight engineer, bringing his expertise, diligence, and unwavering commitment to every flight and crew. His career with Pan Am was marked by a longstanding record of excellence and an unyielding passion for aviation.

Beyond his professional achievements, William was the cornerstone of his family. His love and guidance were the foundation upon which many generations flourished. He was a man of strength and profound wisdom, whose presence brought comfort and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

William is survived by his loving wife Carolyn Yen Wong; daughter from his second marriage, Jennifer Lin Wong; and first son from his first marriage, Kenneth Daniel Wong, including his grandchildren, Raymond Wong, Stephanie Bier, Christina Wong and Jonathan Wong, and his great-grandchildren, Jack, Jason, Christian, Chase and Matthew Bier. He is preceded in death by his first wife Mee Soon (d. 1980) and their second son Daniel (d. 2020).

His legacy of love, bravery, and integrity will live on through them and the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of William's life, love and service will be held on Sunday, July 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Towers Funeral Home in Oceanside, Long Island, New York. Family, friends, and all who wish to honor his memory are invited to join us in paying tribute to a truly remarkable man.

Rest in peace, William. Please know that we will always love, honor and remember you. Your life, legacy and spirit will forever soar in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing, cherishing and loving you.