MATTHEW MASATO KOK LEONG TOM41, of San Diego, CA passed away on August 9, 2019. He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 20, 1978 to Terrance and Penelope Tom. As a child, Matt performed with the Honolulu Boy Choir for over 8 years. He is best remembered for his solo rendition of "Becky" by Hilo Hattie which he performed with the choir in Hawaii and around the world. Matt attended Punahou School and graduated in 1996. While at Punahou, he excelled in soccer, competed as a member of the Varsity Tennis Team and sang in the Chorale. Matt attended the University of Oregon and was active in the Hawaii Club. After graduating with a degree in political science, he moved to San Diego to be with the love of his life, Thu Ly. Matt and Thu were married in 2005. Matt was skilled in customer relations and held executive positions at various companies in San Diego, including Student Loan Xpress, San Diego Federal Credit Union, and 2-1-1 San Diego. At the time of his passing, he was serving as Vice President of Deposits Contact Center at Axos Bank. He was well-liked and respected by his colleagues for his leadership, warmth and work ethic. Matt's devotion to his wife and children took priority in his life. To Matt, it was always "family first." He spent his time and effort supporting his daughter in golf and his son who, like his dad, excelled in soccer. He also had a passion and immense knowledge of sports. A staunch supporter of the New England Patriots, he named his son Brady after his favorite quarterback, Tom Brady. Matt was an extraordinary husband, father, son, brother, cousin, nephew and friend. He lived every day of his life to the fullest with the incredible ability to make everyone around him feel special. His infectious laugh, humor, friendliness, sincerity, and love for others will live on in our hearts forever. He is survived by his wife, Thu, daughter Madison (11) and son Brady (8); parents Terry and Penny, and brother Mark (Noele). On September 21, 2019, a Celebration of Life was held in Rancho Bernardo, CA. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at Thurston Memorial Chapel, Punahou School, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Visitation 1:30pm, program at 2:30pm, refreshments to follow. Casual attire. No flowers please.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased