Jack Ong

Jack Ong 85, died peacefully on Monday, February 22, 2010 in Phoenix at his home that he loved and built. He was born on October 22, 1924 in Phoenix and was a gifted baseball player in the heyday of semi pro baseball and softball in the early 1940's. While growing up, he helped with the family business, Linden Grocery. After graduating from Phoenix Union High School, he operated the family dairy business with his brother, William, in west Phoenix for over 30 years. In 1947, he met and later married his wife of 61 years, Jean Lew. In his retirement years, Jack became an avid collector of all things and perfected his many artistic skills. His countless stained glass pieces were admired and given to family and friends around the country. He was a fan of all sports and an avid follower of all Arizona sports teams. Often though, he lamented about today’s high priced athletes and was particularly critical of the superstars of baseball, who didn’t know the fundamentals and couldn’t even “lay down a bunt.” Jack’s generosity was limitless and his kindness knew no bounds. He was a trusting soul who had a twinkle in his eye and a good word for everyone who knew him which in turn earned him the love and respect of many. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Ong Hung Yen and Soo Hoo Shee, sister Hazel (Hin) Wu, brothers Harry (Jean), Soon, William and his son, Gregory. He is survived by his wife, Jean, his two sons Norman (Caren), Jerry (Karen), daughter-in-law Candace, grandsons Matthew and Jeffrey, brother Frank (Viola), sister Lily (Bob Ham) and numerous extended family members who will miss him dearly. Visitation will be at A. L. Moore Grimshaw Mortuary, 710 West Bethany Home Road, Phoenix on Friday, March 5th from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Services will be held at the Serenity Chapel at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, 719 N. 27th Avenue, Phoenix on Saturday, March 6th at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack’s memory to Hospice of the Valley, Northwest Chinese Baptist Church or First Chinese Baptist Church.