WESTLEY GEORGE WONG

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WESTLEY GEORGE WONG Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on Saturday, January 31, 2004. Wes was born in Brandon on September 8, 1922, son of Sam and Quang Ying Wong. He was raised and educated in Brandon, graduating from Brandon College in 1944 before pursuing post-graduate work at the University of Manitoba and University of Toronto. Wes married Helen Foo in Winnipeg on December 27, 1945 and the young couple took up residence in Brandon where Wes joined the faculty of Brandon College Physics Department in the fall of 1946. During his long career at Brandon College (and later Brandon University) Wes enjoyed the fellowship and respect of his colleagues and students. He served as head of the Physics Department throughout, Dean of Science for two years and Vice-President for two years. Although teaching and administering the Physics Department were his primary concerns, he wanted very much to see improvements in the physical plant and the academic program. In 1958, he was especially proud to have co-written (with D.R. MacKay, then Registrar) an essay, "A Blueprint For Action," which was a key part of a presentation to the provincial government to get financial aid for the expansion of Brandon College. That set the stage for a $3 million expansion program that saw the opening in 1960 of the first new buildings on the campus since 1922. Wes was also instrumental in establishing the Bachelor of General Studies program, the astronomy observatory on top of McMaster Hall, and chaired a committee to restore the liberal education component to all Arts and Science programs. Upon retirement in 1984, Wes was granted Professor Emeritus status but returned in 1987 to Chair the University Family fund-raising campaign, part of the "Building From Strength" appeal that raised over $5 million for program and facilities development. At the university convocation in May, 2000, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his contributions to the university and in January, 2003, Wes was awarded the title of Dean Emeritus. Helen was the perfect mate for Wes and together they raised four children over the course of their 58 year marriage. Wes was a loving and supportive father to Doug (Sola) of New York City, Brian (Helena) of Winnipeg, Nancy (Terry) of Kamloops, BC and Alan (Noemi) of Calgary, AB and proud grandfather of nine. Throughout his life, he enjoyed building things, from toys for his kids to a boat and a cottage. There didnt seem to be anything that his ingenuity couldnt fix. The cottage at Killarney was a labour of love that remains a focal point for the entire Wong clans activities. Wes also enjoyed fishing and duck hunting with his sons and friends. Together, Wes and Helen derived great pleasure in square and round dancing with the Circle 8 Club for over 30 years. They formed numerous friendships within the square dance community that continue to this day. They also enjoyed their travels together in retirement. Wes was predeceased by his sister May. In addition to Helen and their four children and their families, Wes is survived by brothers, Charles (Lynn) and Walker; sister Irene and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the medical, palliative and home care personnel who treated Dad in such a caring way during his illness. A celebration of Westleys Life will be held at Central United Church, 327 - 8th Street, on Saturday, February 7 at 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Joan Jarvis will officiate. Cremation has taken place and his ashes will be committed at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westley G. Wong Scholarship Fund for Physics, c/o Brandon University, 270 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 6A9; the Brandon Regional Health Association, "Bed for you, Bed for me", 150 McTavish Ave. E., Brandon, MB, R7A 2B3; the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2B7 or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are with Brockie Donovan, 727-0694. Messages of Condolence may be sent to www.brockiedonovan.com. Brockie Donovan Funeral Home 332-8th Street Brandon, MB R7A 3X4 Ph: 727-0694 Fax: 726-1297 info@brockiedonovan.com www.brockiedonovan.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 03, 2004