Wanda Wong Tong died peacefully in her sleep on March 31, 2020 at Kahala Nui. She was 89. Wanda is survived by her husband, Gregory Mun Biu Tong, daughter Debra Tong (Mark Mir), son Jeffrey Tong and four grandchildren, Alexander Mir and Rianne, Ryan and Brandon Tong, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.Wanda was born in 1930 in Honolulu. She was the youngest of 10 and the last surviving child of Kim Ho and Teu Wong, a chef at the Halekulani Hotel. She was a 1948 graduate of Roosevelt High School and Cannon School of Business, a runner up to Miss Chinatown in 1950 and crowned Sports Queen in 1951. Wanda became the secretary to the Commander of Naval Intelligence at Pearl Harbor until 1959 when she left to raise her family following her marriage to Greg.
She frequently accompanied Greg throughout Asia and the Pacific, aiding him in expanding his work as the first Chairman Emeritus and cofounder of the international architectural firm Wimberly, Whisenand, Allison, Tong and Goo, now WATG.
Wanda was a self-taught health advocate, ahead of her time, and a passionate volunteer to numerous organizations, including Foster Gardens and the Salvation Army. She belonged the Potters' Guild and made beautiful ceramic bowls. Her love of gardening benefited the Punahou Carnival plant booth with truckloads of plants from her lush garden brimming with fruit trees, ferns, and flowers. Wanda also bred Miniature Doberman Pinschers, including Maile, Kahana and Lani. She loved entertaining her family and friends and enjoyed large family potluck gatherings.
Wanda's family would like to thank everyone who shared her joys in life and a special mahalo to all the dedicated caregivers at Kahala Nui for their nurturing support and aloha. They often sang Wanda's favorite song, "I can't stop loving you" with her. There will be a private graveside service
Arrangements Provided By: Hawaiian Memorial Park Mortuary
