92, passed peacefully in his sleep, at home, surrounded by family on the morning of April 13, 2023. Born from humble beginnings in Paia, Maui, Hung Soo served his country during Germany's occupation post-WWII. He worked tirelessly throughout his life to provide for his wife, Jennie, whom preceded him in death and for his son, Stewart, and daughters, Ramona and Laura who survive him. Quoted by esteemed Star Advertiser sportswriter Bill Kwon as the "greatest golfer of Korean ancestry in Hawaii," Hung Soo's undeniable golfing legacy earned the respect of countless across the islands and his induction into the Hawaii Golf Hall of Fame in 1992. Hung Soo won the Korean Invitational 16 times that earned him the perpetual trophy, and he represented Hawaii a record 14 times in the USGA Amateur Public Links Championship — reaching the finals in 1962.
His other local golf tournament championships include: The 50th State Medal Championship, Hawaiian Amateur Stroke Play Championship, Waialae Men's Invitational, Lanikai Cup, Oahu Country Club Men's Invitational, Mayor's Cup, Francis Brown Four-Ball, Ted Makalena Four-Ball, and Hawaiian Public Links Four-Ball.
But what is most impressive about Hung Soo is the example he set for his children, to work hard and provide even greater opportunities for their children. Later in life, he continued to play golf, looked after his grandchildren, and enjoyed giving golf lessons to friends and family. Today, Hung Soo's family spans across the United States, engrained with the values he instilled upon them.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Star of the Sea Catholic Church. Viewing will start at 10:00 a.m. and the services at 11:00 a.m., followed by a 1:00 p.m. burial at The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. The family asks that any monetary donations be made to the St. Francis Healthcare System who took great care of Hung Soo in his final days.
