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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:45:28 GMT 12
Drowned whitebaiter filled retirement years with fishing, family and photography Les Wong drowned at Lake Ferry on Tuesday. Fellow Wairarapa Camera Club member Bruce Levy took this photo of him at his other great hobby, whitebaiting. BRUCE LEVY Les Wong drowned at Lake Ferry on Tuesday. Fellow Wairarapa Camera Club member Bruce Levy took this photo of him at his other great hobby, whitebaiting. A father of four who drowned in Cook Strait on Tuesday was renowned for making the most of his retirement by focusing on loved ones and hobbies. Leslie Wan Wong, 71, was fishing by the mouth of Lake Onoke, where it enters Cook Strait near Lake Ferry in south Wairarapa, when he was swept away on Tuesday afternoon. A nearby fisherman risked his life by swimming through the dangerous rip to bring him ashore, and emergency services workers tried to resuscitate him for 40 minutes, but Wong died at the scene. Les Wong was described in online tributes as "an energetic, loving gentleman", and a "much respected man". BRUCE LEVY Les Wong was described in online tributes as "an energetic, loving gentleman", and a "much respected man"Family members were too upset to talk on Thursday, but a page set up for Wong at tributes.co.nz was full of warm memories of the retired Greytown market gardener. "Max and I were shocked to read of the sudden, tragic passing of an energetic, loving gentleman ... hoping you may find solace knowing that Les was a much respected man," wrote Irene Higgison. "He was an amazing market gardener, we have never tasted or sold any better corn or peas as good as what Les would grow! Always a man with a smile," wrote the Hunter family, and "all the staff at The Big Apple". "We will miss him down here at Lake Ferry. He would aways greet you with a smile and give you heaps if you [were] running late," was Kevin, Noeline and Dwayne Garrett's tribute. Members of the Wairarapa Camera Club, meanwhile, said Wong was admired for being just as dedicated in retirement as he had been to his work. But instead of horticulture, he filled his days with family and friends, photography, and whitebaiting. "He retired, joined the camera club, and took up whitebaiting all at the same time ... he took heaps of photos and came to all the club comps, as long as it wasn't whitebait season," club secretary Tim McMahonsaid. Club member Bruce Levy cherished photos he took of Wong in action with his beloved whitebait net. "Such a loss, an amazing man." Ad Feedback A service will be held in the Richmond Chapel in Carterton next Tuesday at 11am, followed by burial at the Greytown Lawn Cemetery. www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/71314604/drowned-whitebaiter-filled-retirement-years-with-fishing-family-and-photography |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:46:47 GMT 12
n Memory Of Leslie Wan Wong 19/07/1944 - 18/08/2015 View Service Info WONG, Leslie Wan . Of Greytown. Suddenly on 18th August 2015. Beloved husband of Yuen Ha Wong. Loved father and father-in-law of Sandra, Kirsty and Derek, David and Jane, Simon and Violet. A loved Goong Goong to his grandchildren. Loved brother of Len, Daphne, Donald, Kitty, and Jack. Loved brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Life Flight Trust, P.O. Box 14448, Kilbirnie, Wellington 6241 would be appreciated and may be left in the chapel foyer. A service for Leslie will be held in the Richmond Chapel, Richmond Road, Carterton on Tuesday 25th August 2015 at 11.00am followed by burial at the Greytown Lawn Cemetery. Messages to the Wong family C/- PO Box 185, Carterton 5743 or can be left on Leslie’s tribute page at www.tributes.co.nzWONG, Leslie Wan. Loved brother-in-law of Louise and Ko Keung, Angela and Ivan (deceased), Eliza and Richard and Ken (deceased), and Kenneth and Beatrice . A loved uncle. |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:47:26 GMT 12
Richmond Funeral Home
(Peter and Jenny Giddens)
FDANZ Carterton
Acknowledgement from the family
Yuen Ha and extended families send prayers and offerings of sincere thanks to everyone who visited, phoned and sent such heartfelt messages of kindness and love.
The family would also like to thank everyone for the amazing assortment of cakes and tasty sweets, plus the wonderful arrangements of flowers, to help lighten the sudden loss of our dearly loved husband, father and Goong Goong,
A warm thank you to the Richmond Funeral Home for all of their guidance, support, understanding and kind words in our time of need.
We once again humbly thank everyone that was involved in our father’s return. Words cannot describe how grateful we are.
Sincerely, thankful and warm wishes to all.
The Wong Family.
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:48:16 GMT 12
Service Information
Date: 25/08/2015
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Richmond Chapel
Richmond Road,
Carterton
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:48:33 GMT 12
Tribute Book for
Leslie Wan Wong
19/07/1944 - 18/08/2015
To leave your own comment or tribute Click Here
Rich & Eliza Baxter
26/08/2015
Les was an honest, extremely hardworking, friendly, well-respected and straight-up bloke, a real 'backbone of the country' Wairarapa man, who with his wife Yuen Ha brought up four excellent children.
A real privilege to have known and to be related to, and many excellent qualities that made the world a better place.
Les Pope
26/08/2015
To the Wong Family
Please accept our sincere sympathy as you say farewell to a good man.
Kind Regards
Les Pope and family.
Kirsty and Derek van Oosten
25/08/2015
The family would like to thank all those that have shared amazing tributes and shared respectful and loving comments about Les Wong with media.
We would however like to make a few special thanks the Emergency Teams that worked tirelessly to resuscitate him, and to the person that swam out to rescue him, if it were not for your courage we may not have had the closure that we needed as a family.
We would like to tell you an aroha story between Aotearoa and our Dad.
Aotearoa made Mr Wong work hard for his money, to feed his family. He would labour many long hours a day in ploughing Aotearoa’s soil and planting seeds so that they would grow to feed Aotearoa’s children. However after many years of doing this Aotearoa said to Mr Wong, “Stop Mr Wong and smell the Rhododendron”. So Mr Wong did, and when he stopped and stood up straight (because when you are a market gardener you spend a lot of time bending over), he saw Aotearoa, and the great beauty that she had, and Aotearoa started to show Mr Wong how to capture her beauty.
First she showed him her fish, She taught him the art of fishing for red cod out at Whangaimoana. Then she showed him how to capture the beauty of her plants in a picture lens, and then she showed him how to whitebait at Lake Ferry, and Mr Wong became very good at this and caught more than he could eat so he would share with the rest of Aotearoa’s children.
On day Aotearoa said to Mr Wong I will grant you 2 wishes about how you can come home to me. So Mr Wong pondered very hard, and came up with 3.
1. I would like to be remembered as being happy and humble
2. I would like to be doing something I enjoy, and
3. I would like to go quietly
But poor Mr Wong could not decide which to choose, so he asked Aotearoa to decide for him when the time was right.
Many years later Mr Wong was enjoying life he had many great friends and loving family and grandchildren. He had been very loving and shared much of himself with so many people. Aotearoa and he had shared many memories together.
When Aotearoa saw how happy Mr Wong was she started to wonder how best to bring him home to her, and she remembered the 3 wishes Mr Wong had made. Well Mr Wong, Aotearoa thought, I know you are humble and you have shared much with many of my children, but many of my other children don’t know how wonderful you have been to them, so I will grant you your first two wishes, but I can’t grant you your last wish because more people need to know what you were like, and how if they were like you how they could impact other people around them.
So one day while Mr Wong was fishing for Whitebait out at Lake Ferry, Aotearoa sent a wave to capture Mr Wong, like he had captured so much of her through nets and picture lenses. Then she started to send Aotearoa’s children to help him, to show him how much she loved him. First a great dolphin like swimmer, and then other great Eagles fast and furious with hearts like doves our emergency men and women. Then people began to share their great memories of Mr Wong and Aotearoa’s children started to hear about her great humble friend.
Today we share this story because if there were more Les Wong’s in this world the world would be better place.
May God’s grace shine upon you that you may rest in peace.
Aroha.
Your Family, Your Friends and Aotearoa
Margaret Wilson
25/08/2015
Yuen Ha & family, I was shocked when Mum phoned me with the news of Les's tragic death, wish I could have been there personally to pay my respects but I am overseas. Am thinking of you all. Margaret Wilson (O'Kane)
Lamb Peters Print
25/08/2015
"We are sorry we cant be here with you today, but please know that you are in our thoughts and hearts at this sad and difficult time.
All our sympathy and love is with you today and the days ahead.
We will cherish the memory of all those wonderful whitebait fritters.
AJ, Louise, Mike and Richard from Lamb Peters Print"
Bill & Bronwyn Mullis
24/08/2015
To The Wong Family,
We were very sorry to hear of the sad loss of Les.
While whitebaiting at Lake Ferry (and staying at the Motor Camp) we were very lucky to have met Les on quite a few occasions.
Les was always very friendly and generous, a lovely man, and we will both really miss seeing him at Lake Ferry.
Our deepest sympathy to you all at this very sad time,
With Love From,
Bill & Bronwyn Mullis
(From Wellington)
Bill, Jenny, Dan, Tim Druzianic
24/08/2015
We are all very saddened to hear of Les's death and our heartfelt sympathy and love to you all.
Piet & Ellen Van Nistelrooy
24/08/2015
This was a terrible shock to hear of the loss of a fellow keen whitebaiter who drowned while whitebaiting which is very addictive.
I always felt very safe for the last 9 years scooping at the mouth with Les in the weekends as he was so skilled and made it all look easy. I admired his health and stamina for the time he committed to whitebaiting. I would follow Les down to the mouth when I heard his quad bike start up at the camp.
My wife and I pass on our deepest sympathy to Yuen & family we will miss Les and his passion for fishing.
Piet & Ellen Van Nistelrooy
Lowe family
22/08/2015
Our condolences to the wong family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
On behalf of the Lowe Family.
Glennis Young
22/08/2015
To Kitty and all the members of the Wong family,
My sincere condolences on the tragic passing of your brother. Sorry I cannot be there to attend the funeral.
Kind regards, Glennis Young (nee Lowe of Morrinsville)
Ray Young
22/08/2015
Dear David and Simon, very sad to read about your dad in yesterday's Dompost even though I never met him I can see that you both have inherited his amazing talents may he rest in peace Ray Young.
Martin & Viv Napier
21/08/2015
Dear Yuen, Sandra, Kirsty, David and Simon and family. Jack, Kitty, Donald and families.
We were shocked and saddened to read of Les's accident. Our thoughts are with you all at this very sad time.
Les was an amazing guy, always a huge smile, contagious laughter and a happy bubbly personality. He was a hard worker but knew how to enjoy life. He willed be missed by your family and all those people whose lives he touched over his life.
Our deepest sympathy to you all. Unfortunately we will be unable to attend his service as we are away.
Martin, Viv and family
Gina Neil (nee Woodthingy)
20/08/2015
Dear Sandra and family,
My thoughts and sympathy to you all on your loss, I'm sure your Dad was proud of your achievements Sandra, and know he will always be with you. Gina xx
Geoff Walker
20/08/2015
To all the Wong family......
I don't know that there are words to express the loss you have taken.... even here in Uganda I soon had news of the tragedy and am so stunned...
We shared love of the coast and photography and I have been looking back here at pictures from 9/9/2014 when I surprised Mr and Mrs Wong sitting in the ute at Lake Ferry having a cuppa as the sea was way too rough....
This will be my treasured memory of Les.......
If you would like copies of those pictures just get in touch via email as I have uploaded them to a Dropbox already..
The world was is a better place for Les having been here......
best wishes from Kampala, Uganda....
Helen McCone
20/08/2015
To Donald.Gloria and the Wong family.Deepest sympathy in your sad lose of Les.You are a very special family. Helen McCone (Gray)
Angela Cathro
20/08/2015
Kia ora Wong whanau. Thinking of you all at this very hard time.
Moe mai ra Mr. Wong. Arohanui, Ange xx
Kath Parkin
20/08/2015
Dear Kitty and Family,
Not sure if this is the Kitty that I worked with many years ago now.
Tom and I are so extremely sorry to hear of your huge loss.
Want to let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts.
Our Sincere Condolences to you all at this incredible very sad time.
All Our love Always
Kath and Tom Parkin and family. xxxxxx
Bruce Levy
20/08/2015
I am feeling your loss very deeply, and my thoughts go to you all at this very sad time. Very proud to have known Les, what a lovely man. Shalom, Bruce
Trudy Lamb
20/08/2015
To dear Sandra and Family,
Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time
May you hold many precious memories
Sincerely
Trudy and Trevor lamb
Donald Brooker
20/08/2015
Donald Brooker
20/8/15
To the Wong family please accept my deepest sympathy in the sad loss of Les.
He will be missed.
Jo & Bill Bain
20/08/2015
To Sandra and all members of your Family,
It was with sadness that we read of the tragedy of Dad's passing.
We extend to you all our heartfelt sympathy.
That a man is a success who has lived well,
Laughed often and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of his fellow men and women, and the love of children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who leaves the world better than he found it,
Who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty – or failed to express it;
Who has looked for the best in others and gave the best he had!
Some lovely words that epitomise the life of Les
Long may his Memory live in the hearts and minds of those he loved.
Jo & Bill Bain
Kylie Alexander (Evans)
20/08/2015
Dear Sandra and Family,
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing so suddenly like that.
Thoughts are with you all at this hard sad time.
Sandra, your art work is amazing and your dad must of been so
Proud of you.
Love and peace
Kylie (laughing owl fudge)
Rita Stirling-Vincent
20/08/2015
To Sandra, Kitty and the Wong family.
I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Heather and John Bowness
20/08/2015
To Yuen and family,
We are so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Les. We have so many fond memories of our times spent with you both at Lake Ferry and our times whitebaiting with you both. We remember Les as a very generous and kind man who always had a huge smile on his face. He will always be in our heart 0and we will cherish our memories of him.
Our very deepest sympathies to you Yuen and your family xx
Karen Wong
20/08/2015
Dear Aunty Yuen Ha, Sandra, Kirsty & Derek, David & Jane, Simon & Violet and grandchildren,
I was so devastated to hear of Uncle Les’s passing.
Uncle Les was a wonderful and humble man - a loving husband and soul mate to Aunty, a caring brother, father, grandfather and Uncle. His smile and laughter will be greatly missed by everyone his life he has touched.
It’s a time of heartfelt sadness
When a loved one passes on
But know your loved one lives in joy
And peace where he has gone
Oh how much he will be missed
That’s where the sadness lies
But others who have missed him
now rejoice in Heaven’s skies
We know one day we’ll join him
Because our time on earth will flee
We’ll then live with him forever
Throughout all eternity
Love, Karen Wong & family
kevin noeline @dwayne garrett
20/08/2015
Yuen and family sad to hear of Les passing . we will miss him down here at lakeferry . he would aways greet you with a smile and give you heaps if you running late thinging of you all kevin noeline Dwayne garrett
irene higgison
20/08/2015
donald,gloria kitty and wong family.
max and i were shocked to read of the sudden, tragic passing of a energetic loving gentleman. our thoughts and prayers are with you all, hoping you may find solace knowing that Les was a much respected man. irene & max higgison
Gwenda Alloway
20/08/2015
23 Upper Kokatahi Road
RD1 Hokitika. allowaygj@xtra.co.nz
In memory of Les Wong, a classmate of Gwenda Farrell's throughout our primary & secondary school years.
I have such strong, continuing memories of Les, always kindly, smiling & generous. My husband John & I attended a small reunion of Kuranui 5th formers (1960) back in 2011, Les was in our group & we both enjoyed his company that day.
My respect & loving thoughts to all who held Les very dear. Gwenda.
Karla Hunter
20/08/2015
To the Wong family,
Our deepest sympathies to your families.
Les was such a lovely man and always so kind.
He was an amazing market gardener, we have never tasted or sold any better corn or peas as good as what Les would grow!
Always a man with a smile, and asking after my family.
He will be greatly missed xox
Kind regards,
Karla, Sam, Amelia, Ethan & Zack Hunter.
Also all the staff at The Big Apple.
david lowe
19/08/2015
david lowe &family sent condolence to the wong family Very sad to hear les; passed away
Denise Wedderburn
19/08/2015
Donald , Gloria and all families members of Leslie , we are so sad to hear of your tragic loss . We hope your memories will bring you all comfort as time goes by . Thinking of you all Alan and Denise Wedderburn Masterton
chris and robbie davies
19/08/2015
Yuen and family
so sad to hear of the passing of les
our thoughts are with you at this time you are in our hearts
he was a lovely man and a special friend to our family
Chris and Robbie Davies149028
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:54:20 GMT 12
Leslie Wan WONG Notice | Condolences Leslie Wan WONG Notice WONG, Leslie Wan. Of Greytown. Suddenly on 18th August 2015. Beloved husband of Yuen Ha Wong. Loved father and father-in-law of Sandra, Kirsty and Derek, David and Jane, Simon and Violet. A loved Goong Goong to his grandchildren. Loved brother of Len, Daphne, Donald, Kitty, and Jack. Loved brother-in- law, uncle and friend to many. A service for Leslie will be held in the Richmond Chapel, Richmond Road, Carterton on Tuesday 25th August 2015 at 11.00am followed by burial at the Greytown Lawn Cemetery. Messages to the Wong family C/- PO Box 185, Carterton 5743 or can be left on Leslie's tribute page at www.tributes.co.nzlogo Published in The Wairarapa Times-Age from Aug. 20 to Aug. 21, 2015 - See more at: www.legacy.com/obituaries/times-age-nz/obituary.aspx?n=leslie-wan-wong&pid=175539067&fhid=12620#sthash.yxwUt3jV.dpuf |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:55:48 GMT 12
August 24, 2015 Our sincere condolences to all the members of the Wong family. We have lost a lovely man and his ready smile from our midst, but not from our memories. The thoughts of all the members of the Wairarapa Camera Club are with you. Tim McMahon, Greytown share August 24, 2015 Sincere condolences to all the Wong family, in their sudden loss of Leslie. My thoughts are with you, though unable to attend. Big Hugs Dianne Sia. (nee Lowe}. Contact Me share August 21, 2015 Sincerest condolences to the Wong Family at this time.We share your sadness in your lost of your brother Leslie.Rest in peace dear friend. Lai,Daisey(deceased), Alan,Margaret,David Chung share August 20, 2015 My thoughts are with you all. Sending hugs David and Jane. Robyn Guy. share August 20, 2015 My sincerest condolences go out to Yuen Ha, Jack, Kitty and families at this time of great sorrow. I will miss the infectious smile, the distinctive hat and the great knowledge he was happy to share with anyone who spoke to him. His White Baiting skills were second to none along with Jack and I will miss seeing him scooping and loving everything about the lake and the sea. Rest in peace great man, you will be missed by all. Kind thoughts to all the family at this tragic time. Steve and Cheryl Nightingale. Lake Ferry Camp. share August 24, 2015 WONG, Leslie Wan. Loved brother-in-law of Louise and Ko Keung, Angela and Ivan (deceased), Eliza and Richard and Ken (deceased), and Kenneth and Beatrice. A loved uncle. Leslie WONG, Masterton - See more at: www.legacy.com/guestbooks/times-age-nz/leslie-wan-wong-condolences/175539067?cid=full#sthash.N4uR0HjA.dpuf |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:57:00 GMT 12
Wonderful man' swept to his death By Alisa Yong - Wairarapa Times-Age 10:30 AM Thursday Aug 20, 2015 Save Like on Facebook 121 Post on LinkedIn 0 +1 on Google+ 0 Wairarapa Times Age Leslie (Les) Wan Wong was swept about 500m into the sea at the mouth of Lake Onoke. PHOTO/ WAIRARAPA CAMERA CLUB Leslie (Les) Wan Wong was swept about 500m into the sea at the mouth of Lake Onoke. PHOTO/ WAIRARAPA CAMERA CLUB A man who died after being swept to his death at Lake Ferry in Wairarapa had always warned his sister to be careful when out fishing. Leslie (Les) Wan Wong, 71, was swept about 500m into the sea at the mouth of Lake Onoke at about 2pm on Tuesday, and despite a brave rescue attempt by a fellow fisherman, could not be resuscitated. Mr Wong is survived by his wife Yuen Ha, and children Sandra, David, Simon and Kirsty, their partners and his three grandchildren. He was the youngest brother of Len, Daphne, Donald, Kitty and Jack. Mr Wong's older sister, Kitty Wong, said he had always been the one to warn her to be careful when fishing, and she was stunned by the news of his death. He would be sorely missed, she said. "He was hard-working and he loved his garden, loved his rhododendrons, and he loved his fishing." Police confirmed on Tuesday that Mr Wong had been wearing a life jacket when he was swept into the water at the mouth of the lake and into the sea. Familyand friends yesterday gathered at the retired market gardener's Greytown home, where family members said they were still trying to come to terms with the news. Mr Wong's son, Simon, said his father was "a wonderful man". Neighbours Bruce and Janice Slater said they were shocked by the news of Mr Wong's death. "He was a great neighbour for 40 years. I've known him since school days and it's a bit of a shock, because he'd been whitebaiting down there for years - it's a real surprise," Mr Slater said. "You couldn't get a nicer man." With Mr Wong's years of experience, he would have done everything right, Mr Slater said. "But you never know, do you - things can creep up on you . . . he's got to be pretty unlucky." Mr Wong was a keen whitebaiter, he said. "He loved his whitebait. It was his absolute passion." Mr Wong, who was a member of the Wairarapa Camera Club, was also a "brilliant photographer", he said. Mr Wong had attended Greytown School and Greytown District High School and later Kuranui College, Mr Slater said. Wairarapa Camera Club secretary Tim McMahon said he would remember Mr Wong as a "smiling chap" who was always "bubbly". Mr McMahon recalled bumping into Mr Wong when he was out whitebaiting and being surprised to learn he gave away most of his whitebait. "That's the kind of guy he was ... The whole thing was just so fun for him." Mr Wong was a regular participant in club events and competitions, except during the whitebait season, Mr McMahon said. "Whitebait came first." Former neighbour Enid Meyer said Mr Wong and his family had taken on the land across from the Meyer Brothers berry fruitgrowing business in the 1960s. She said Mr Wong had been a hard worker, who looked after his family and was "always happy". "I'd be lying in bed at 11 or 12 o'clock and he'd have the lights on the tractor getting ready to plough the ground -- he was a terrific worker." Messages for the Wong family can be left on Leslie's tribute page at www.tributes.co.nz or sent to C/-PO Box 185, Carterton 5743. Funeral details are yet to be announced.http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11499876 |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 1, 2015 18:59:03 GMT 12
In Memory of Leslie Wan Wong T New SearchFirst Names:Leslie Wan Last Name:Wong Death Date:18 August 2015 Country:New Zealand Funeral Home:Richmond Funeral Home Charity:Life Flight Trust - Wellington Published Notices:(4) Newspapers - view notices/order summary ID:289238 << [1] ... 1 >> Deepest Sympathy to you all So sorry to hear your sad news. Leslie was in my class at Greytown School from Primmer one, right through until the High School closed and Kuranui College opened in 1960. He was also in my class at Kuranui. A lovely guy, always smiling. Thinking of you all in my prayers. Paddy Bayley (nee Tilson - from Papawai) Paddy Bayley. Hastings, New Zealand. www.amemorytree.co.nz/remembrance.php?personid=289238 WONG, Leslie Wan. Died 18 August 2015. Published Notices (4) Remembrance Page Open sign page / view entries New Zealand Clicking on the newspaper below will take you to their website. Death notices aren't always available on these websites. However, we are able to provide summaries of all published notices. Example Summary Order for Leslie Wan WONG #289238 Publications Wairarapa Times Age (3) NZ $6.90 The Dominion Post (1) NZ $6.90 Wairarapa Times Age 20 Aug 2015 Wairarapa Times Age 21 Aug 2015 The Dominion Post 22 Aug 2015 Wairarapa Times Age 24 Aug 2015 |
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Post by NZBC on Sept 26, 2015 12:12:35 GMT 12
Acknowledgement from the family
Yuen Ha and extended families send prayers and offerings of sincere thanks to everyone who visited, phoned and sent such heartfelt messages of kindness and love.
The family would also like to thank everyone for the amazing assortment of cakes and tasty sweets, plus the wonderful arrangements of flowers, to help lighten the sudden loss of our dearly loved husband, father and Goong Goong,
A warm thank you to the Richmond Funeral Home for all of their guidance, support, understanding and kind words in our time of need.
We once again humbly thank everyone that was involved in our father’s return. Words cannot describe how grateful we are.
Sincerely, thankful and warm wishes to all.
The Wong Family.
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Post by NZBC on Sept 26, 2015 12:14:38 GMT 12
ason Calvert
1/09/2015
My thoughts and condolences go out to all the family for your great loss.
yours,
Jason Calvert
jason@jcalvert.com
Rich & Eliza Baxter
26/08/2015
Les was an honest, extremely hardworking, friendly, well-respected and straight-up bloke, a real 'backbone of the country' Wairarapa man, who with his wife Yuen Ha brought up four excellent children.
A real privilege to have known and to be related to, and many excellent qualities that made the world a better place.
Les Pope
26/08/2015
To the Wong Family
Please accept our sincere sympathy as you say farewell to a good man.
Kind Regards
Les Pope and family.
Kirsty and Derek van Oosten
25/08/2015
The family would like to thank all those that have shared amazing tributes and shared respectful and loving comments about Les Wong with media.
We would however like to make a few special thanks the Emergency Teams that worked tirelessly to resuscitate him, and to the person that swam out to rescue him, if it were not for your courage we may not have had the closure that we needed as a family.
We would like to tell you an aroha story between Aotearoa and our Dad.
Aotearoa made Mr Wong work hard for his money, to feed his family. He would labour many long hours a day in ploughing Aotearoa’s soil and planting seeds so that they would grow to feed Aotearoa’s children. However after many years of doing this Aotearoa said to Mr Wong, “Stop Mr Wong and smell the Rhododendron”. So Mr Wong did, and when he stopped and stood up straight (because when you are a market gardener you spend a lot of time bending over), he saw Aotearoa, and the great beauty that she had, and Aotearoa started to show Mr Wong how to capture her beauty.
First she showed him her fish, She taught him the art of fishing for red cod out at Whangaimoana. Then she showed him how to capture the beauty of her plants in a picture lens, and then she showed him how to whitebait at Lake Ferry, and Mr Wong became very good at this and caught more than he could eat so he would share with the rest of Aotearoa’s children.
On day Aotearoa said to Mr Wong I will grant you 2 wishes about how you can come home to me. So Mr Wong pondered very hard, and came up with 3.
1. I would like to be remembered as being happy and humble
2. I would like to be doing something I enjoy, and
3. I would like to go quietly
But poor Mr Wong could not decide which to choose, so he asked Aotearoa to decide for him when the time was right.
Many years later Mr Wong was enjoying life he had many great friends and loving family and grandchildren. He had been very loving and shared much of himself with so many people. Aotearoa and he had shared many memories together.
When Aotearoa saw how happy Mr Wong was she started to wonder how best to bring him home to her, and she remembered the 3 wishes Mr Wong had made. Well Mr Wong, Aotearoa thought, I know you are humble and you have shared much with many of my children, but many of my other children don’t know how wonderful you have been to them, so I will grant you your first two wishes, but I can’t grant you your last wish because more people need to know what you were like, and how if they were like you how they could impact other people around them.
So one day while Mr Wong was fishing for Whitebait out at Lake Ferry, Aotearoa sent a wave to capture Mr Wong, like he had captured so much of her through nets and picture lenses. Then she started to send Aotearoa’s children to help him, to show him how much she loved him. First a great dolphin like swimmer, and then other great Eagles fast and furious with hearts like doves our emergency men and women. Then people began to share their great memories of Mr Wong and Aotearoa’s children started to hear about her great humble friend.
Today we share this story because if there were more Les Wong’s in this world the world would be better place.
May God’s grace shine upon you that you may rest in peace.
Aroha.
Your Family, Your Friends and Aotearoa
Margaret Wilson
25/08/2015
Yuen Ha & family, I was shocked when Mum phoned me with the news of Les's tragic death, wish I could have been there personally to pay my respects but I am overseas. Am thinking of you all. Margaret Wilson (O'Kane)
Lamb Peters Print
25/08/2015
"We are sorry we cant be here with you today, but please know that you are in our thoughts and hearts at this sad and difficult time.
All our sympathy and love is with you today and the days ahead.
We will cherish the memory of all those wonderful whitebait fritters.
AJ, Louise, Mike and Richard from Lamb Peters Print"
Bill & Bronwyn Mullis
24/08/2015
To The Wong Family,
We were very sorry to hear of the sad loss of Les.
While whitebaiting at Lake Ferry (and staying at the Motor Camp) we were very lucky to have met Les on quite a few occasions.
Les was always very friendly and generous, a lovely man, and we will both really miss seeing him at Lake Ferry.
Our deepest sympathy to you all at this very sad time,
With Love From,
Bill & Bronwyn Mullis
(From Wellington)
Bill, Jenny, Dan, Tim Druzianic
24/08/2015
We are all very saddened to hear of Les's death and our heartfelt sympathy and love to you all.
Piet & Ellen Van Nistelrooy
24/08/2015
This was a terrible shock to hear of the loss of a fellow keen whitebaiter who drowned while whitebaiting which is very addictive.
I always felt very safe for the last 9 years scooping at the mouth with Les in the weekends as he was so skilled and made it all look easy. I admired his health and stamina for the time he committed to whitebaiting. I would follow Les down to the mouth when I heard his quad bike start up at the camp.
My wife and I pass on our deepest sympathy to Yuen & family we will miss Les and his passion for fishing.
Piet & Ellen Van Nistelrooy
Lowe family
22/08/2015
Our condolences to the wong family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
On behalf of the Lowe Family.
Glennis Young
22/08/2015
To Kitty and all the members of the Wong family,
My sincere condolences on the tragic passing of your brother. Sorry I cannot be there to attend the funeral.
Kind regards, Glennis Young (nee Lowe of Morrinsville)
Ray Young
22/08/2015
Dear David and Simon, very sad to read about your dad in yesterday's Dompost even though I never met him I can see that you both have inherited his amazing talents may he rest in peace Ray Young.
Martin & Viv Napier
21/08/2015
Dear Yuen, Sandra, Kirsty, David and Simon and family. Jack, Kitty, Donald and families.
We were shocked and saddened to read of Les's accident. Our thoughts are with you all at this very sad time.
Les was an amazing guy, always a huge smile, contagious laughter and a happy bubbly personality. He was a hard worker but knew how to enjoy life. He willed be missed by your family and all those people whose lives he touched over his life.
Our deepest sympathy to you all. Unfortunately we will be unable to attend his service as we are away.
Martin, Viv and family
Gina Neil (nee Woodthingy)
20/08/2015
Dear Sandra and family,
My thoughts and sympathy to you all on your loss, I'm sure your Dad was proud of your achievements Sandra, and know he will always be with you. Gina xx
Geoff Walker
20/08/2015
To all the Wong family......
I don't know that there are words to express the loss you have taken.... even here in Uganda I soon had news of the tragedy and am so stunned...
We shared love of the coast and photography and I have been looking back here at pictures from 9/9/2014 when I surprised Mr and Mrs Wong sitting in the ute at Lake Ferry having a cuppa as the sea was way too rough....
This will be my treasured memory of Les.......
If you would like copies of those pictures just get in touch via email as I have uploaded them to a Dropbox already..
The world was is a better place for Les having been here......
best wishes from Kampala, Uganda....
Helen McCone
20/08/2015
To Donald.Gloria and the Wong family.Deepest sympathy in your sad lose of Les.You are a very special family. Helen McCone (Gray)
Angela Cathro
20/08/2015
Kia ora Wong whanau. Thinking of you all at this very hard time.
Moe mai ra Mr. Wong. Arohanui, Ange xx
Kath Parkin
20/08/2015
Dear Kitty and Family,
Not sure if this is the Kitty that I worked with many years ago now.
Tom and I are so extremely sorry to hear of your huge loss.
Want to let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts.
Our Sincere Condolences to you all at this incredible very sad time.
All Our love Always
Kath and Tom Parkin and family. xxxxxx
Bruce Levy
20/08/2015
I am feeling your loss very deeply, and my thoughts go to you all at this very sad time. Very proud to have known Les, what a lovely man. Shalom, Bruce
Trudy Lamb
20/08/2015
To dear Sandra and Family,
Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time
May you hold many precious memories
Sincerely
Trudy and Trevor lamb
Donald Brooker
20/08/2015
Donald Brooker
20/8/15
To the Wong family please accept my deepest sympathy in the sad loss of Les.
He will be missed.
Jo & Bill Bain
20/08/2015
To Sandra and all members of your Family,
It was with sadness that we read of the tragedy of Dad's passing.
We extend to you all our heartfelt sympathy.
That a man is a success who has lived well,
Laughed often and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of his fellow men and women, and the love of children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who leaves the world better than he found it,
Who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty – or failed to express it;
Who has looked for the best in others and gave the best he had!
Some lovely words that epitomise the life of Les
Long may his Memory live in the hearts and minds of those he loved.
Jo & Bill Bain
Kylie Alexander (Evans)
20/08/2015
Dear Sandra and Family,
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing so suddenly like that.
Thoughts are with you all at this hard sad time.
Sandra, your art work is amazing and your dad must of been so
Proud of you.
Love and peace
Kylie (laughing owl fudge)
Rita Stirling-Vincent
20/08/2015
To Sandra, Kitty and the Wong family.
I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Heather and John Bowness
20/08/2015
To Yuen and family,
We are so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Les. We have so many fond memories of our times spent with you both at Lake Ferry and our times whitebaiting with you both. We remember Les as a very generous and kind man who always had a huge smile on his face. He will always be in our heart 0and we will cherish our memories of him.
Our very deepest sympathies to you Yuen and your family xx
Karen Wong
20/08/2015
Dear Aunty Yuen Ha, Sandra, Kirsty & Derek, David & Jane, Simon & Violet and grandchildren,
I was so devastated to hear of Uncle Les’s passing.
Uncle Les was a wonderful and humble man - a loving husband and soul mate to Aunty, a caring brother, father, grandfather and Uncle. His smile and laughter will be greatly missed by everyone his life he has touched.
It’s a time of heartfelt sadness
When a loved one passes on
But know your loved one lives in joy
And peace where he has gone
Oh how much he will be missed
That’s where the sadness lies
But others who have missed him
now rejoice in Heaven’s skies
We know one day we’ll join him
Because our time on earth will flee
We’ll then live with him forever
Throughout all eternity
Love, Karen Wong & family
kevin noeline @dwayne garrett
20/08/2015
Yuen and family sad to hear of Les passing . we will miss him down here at lakeferry . he would aways greet you with a smile and give you heaps if you running late thinging of you all kevin noeline Dwayne garrett
irene higgison
20/08/2015
donald,gloria kitty and wong family.
max and i were shocked to read of the sudden, tragic passing of a energetic loving gentleman. our thoughts and prayers are with you all, hoping you may find solace knowing that Les was a much respected man. irene & max higgison
Gwenda Alloway
20/08/2015
23 Upper Kokatahi Road
RD1 Hokitika. allowaygj@xtra.co.nz
In memory of Les Wong, a classmate of Gwenda Farrell's throughout our primary & secondary school years.
I have such strong, continuing memories of Les, always kindly, smiling & generous. My husband John & I attended a small reunion of Kuranui 5th formers (1960) back in 2011, Les was in our group & we both enjoyed his company that day.
My respect & loving thoughts to all who held Les very dear. Gwenda.
Karla Hunter
20/08/2015
To the Wong family,
Our deepest sympathies to your families.
Les was such a lovely man and always so kind.
He was an amazing market gardener, we have never tasted or sold any better corn or peas as good as what Les would grow!
Always a man with a smile, and asking after my family.
He will be greatly missed xox
Kind regards,
Karla, Sam, Amelia, Ethan & Zack Hunter.
Also all the staff at The Big Apple.
david lowe
19/08/2015
david lowe &family sent condolence to the wong family Very sad to hear les; passed away
Denise Wedderburn
19/08/2015
Donald , Gloria and all families members of Leslie , we are so sad to hear of your tragic loss . We hope your memories will bring you all comfort as time goes by . Thinking of you all Alan and Denise Wedderburn Masterton
chris and robbie davies
19/08/2015
Yuen and family
so sad to hear of the passing of les
our thoughts are with you at this time you are in our hearts
he was a lovely man and a special friend to our family
Chris and Robbie Davies149028
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