Gene Coon Pong (彭振權) passed away quietly at home in Alliston, Ontario in his 76th year with family by his side on December 29, 2023.
Gene is lovingly remembered and perpetually loved by his best friend and wife Jane (nee Webb) of 51 years and his children Gene (Brian) and Christopher (Heather).
Gene was born in Taishan, China on the sixth day of the first lunar month, 1948. He started his education with six months of kindergarten in Hong Kong before immigrating in 1952 to Bradford, Ontario where he completed both elementary and high schools.
Embracing education, Gene received a Diploma in Hotel Administration, a Certificate in Public Health Inspection, and a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Hotel and Tourism Management from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute; a Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Teacher Education College; Ontario Teacher’s Certificate; and, from Niagara University in New York, a Master of Science in Education. While in Ryerson, Gene joined the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, making friendships that he treasured.
Gene married Jane in 1972. They lived in Toronto, then Hamilton before moving away from the larger cities. From an apartment in Bradford to a house on the 4th Line of West Gwillimbury where both young Gene and Christopher were born, Gene then built a new home for his family on the 20th Sideroad outside of Newton Robinson where they lived for 12 years. Later they moved to a farm near Bond Head and acquired a cottage outside of Port Severn on Little Lake. This lakeside cottage became their year-round home upon retirement for the next 17 years before finally settling in Alliston.
Gene started his career as a public health inspector, moved on to teach elementary school children for nine years, then worked in real estate sales and development before purchasing a Home Hardware store in Tottenham where he enjoyed helping folks with home improvement needs for 17 years until his retirement. During this time and for years after you could pick Gene out of a crowd easily as he would always be wearing his red Home Hardware t-shirts or sweaters.
A loving father, Gene inspired his children to become well-rounded, independent and accomplished young men. A jack-of-all trades, Gene instilled his sons with practical life skills for do-it-yourself home improvement projects. He loved family get-togethers, and was famous for his extended family and friends BBQs where pontoon boat rides were popular; the Pong family tree was updated annually; and, delicious food and good company were enjoyed.
Soon after retirement, Gene and Jane loved spending the winter months in Texas where Gene enjoyed riding his motorcycle along with his buddies for breakfast and playing table tennis; and, with Jane, dancing, all-you-can-eat buffets, trips to Mexico and “Happy Hour” with friends.
Gene and Jane also took the opportunity to travel, taking an Alaskan cruise; and, visiting many parts of Canada and the U.S.A., England, Europe and China. Sometimes teased about his fluency in Chinese, he did write his name in Chinese in an art gallery while revisiting his childhood home in China.
Gene enjoyed chatting with people, easily expanding their circle of friends and always cared for others (even strangers) ahead of himself.
Gene is survived by sisters Lai Har, May Har (Ning) and Betty; brothers Jack (Roslyn) and Bill (Carrie); sister-in-law Donnalyn (Peter); and, his many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends who all treasured him. He is preceded in death by his parents Jack and Chung Oy; sisters Ching Ha and Mary; and, brother Thomas.
Gene was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
The family is grateful for the kind-hearted care during the last two years from St. Elizabeth’s PSWs, the ongoing outreach and support from Matthews House and the Alzheimer Society; and more recently, the compassion of the palliative care team.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Matthews House Hospice, the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County or a charity of your choice.
Cremation has taken place; and, Gene’s family welcomes all family and friends to share memories at a Celebration of Gene’s Life to be held at Rod Abrams Funeral Home Ltd. 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477, on Sunday January 14, 2024 between 12:30pm to 3:30pm with spoken Words of Remembrance at 2:00pm. Condolences may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Celebration of Life
Rod Abrams Funeral Home - Cliffside Hall
1666 Tottenham Road, Tottenham Ontario L0G1W0
Sunday January 14, 2024
12:30pm - 3:30pm
Lois Thompson says
Jane
The world has taken your most precious love and my heart is broken for you
I hate that you have to suffer though this We will always remember the happy times we all spent together
Your strength was admirable for the love and care you provided the last few years
Grief is nothing like we expect it to be Finding your way to a new normal will be difficult I’m sure
I am happy to be your shoulder to cry on as you know I’m only a text away
JULIANA Nielson says
Hi Jane. Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your loving husband. I was at your wedding with my ex husband Jack and our daughter Patty was your flower girl. I am so sorry for your loss. Love always
Sonia Goronovsky says
Dear Jane, Gene & Christopher,
I would like to express my sincerest condolences. Working at the Tottenham Home Hardware was my first real part-time job. I learned so much from both Gene and Jane during this time and have carried these lessons throughout my life. Gene was a fair boss who was encouraging of the high school part-timers’ educational pursuits. Even after we went off to university or college, he would welcome us back over the Christmas holidays so we could earn a little cash and he could find out how we were doing. He showed patience (thank goodness, since I was afraid of the key-cutting machine and never learned how to use it even with several lessons!) and would often have a joke to share. I’ll never forget the staff Christmas party where we went to downtown Toronto for authentic Chinese food or our staff party at the horse races. I have wonderful, cherished memories of this time. Thank you, Gene, for being a kind and caring first boss. Rest in peace.
Sonia Goronovsky (Jack)
Candice Tinti says
So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. I always remember him stopping by the office on Adelaide St W. Such a lovely person. always with a big smile on his face
Candice Tinti and Alex Lawson
Viviana Agresti Furlan says
My Condolences To All The Family
Hugh mcevoy says
One of the best athletes I knew in my youth Always thought he could have gone professional in hockey as a goaltender, and one of the best fastball players in our area Gene excelled in any sport he played during high school and was a mentor to me in my earlier years of ball So sorry to hear of genes passing
Glenn and Mary Jo Twenhafel says
Jane and family,
Glenn and I were so sorry to hear of Gene passing. We enjoyed visiting with Gene and you at happy hour. Gene had a great sense of humor and always smiling. We have such fond memories of Gene.
Hugs to you and the family,
Glenn and Mary Jo Twenhafel
Jane D. & John E. Arnott says
Dear Jane & Family
John and I are so very sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He was a wonderful man, so kind and considerate. You will miss him. We feel very honoured to have known both of you. Our condolences also to Chris & Heather as well as Gene & Brian. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Carolyn Cave says
Sending sincere condolences to Jane and the entire Pong family. We hadn’t been in touch for several years and I had no idea Gene was suffering from such a devastating disease until Jane reached out to let me know of his passing. I think back now and remember being at their wedding and visiting when their boys were little. Gene such a smart and funny guy and was always so much fun to be around. My thoughts will be with his family in the difficult days ahead.
Lynne and Mike Beiers says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
maggie lu says
Dear Christopher,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May your Dad rest in peace.
Maggie Lu
Julie Cober says
Jane and family
I was so sorry to learn of Gene’s passing. Hoping that happy, healthy memories will help you all through the tough days ahead.
Jane…It’s been a while but I think of you often with very fond memories and a smile on my face from our Sir William Osler days.
Thinking of you, take care
Julie Cober
Jenny Ronda says
Dearest Jane,
On many occasions visiting Canada from New York, I have enjoyed you and Gene’s warm hospitalities and loving company. I have many unforgettable fond memories of my Cousin Gene being the loving, kind and funny person!
During this difficult time for the Pong Family and friends, I hope you will find soothing comfort from such scriptures as the following:
“Jehovah is closed to the broken hearted. He saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalms 34:18
“When anxieties overwhelmed me, you (Jehovah) comforted and soothed me.” — Psalms 94:19
With Love,
Jenny Ronda and Family
Marshall Thompson says
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Gene. I enjoyed his company and playing hockey with him. Those were special times that I will always remember.
Fred Steers says
Very sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. I too went to high school with Gene. Besides being a great hockey goalie he was also our BDHS soccer goalie. I had the good fortune of playing full back for the same team. We won two championships with Gene ability. My one major memories of Gene was the Sat. he drove to Mosport in his mini cooper, the four of big guys barely fit in the car. Gene showed up a few minutes late with fresh fried egg sandwich in hand.
On the way home Gene took a slightly different route and went around a paved corner a bit fast, That happens when you return from Mosport. The rear-end of his mini stopped with one rear wheel hanging out over a twelve foot drop-off. We got out, laughed, said a few choice words and made it safely back to Bradford.
You were one of the good ones, Gene.
Rest in Peace.
Barry and Linda Matson says
So very sorry to read about you Gene’s passing. Nobody could have cared for him as you did so hold tight to your wonderful memories. As I was reading about Gene’s extensive education and career choices I remembered we id know him from his time at the hardware store. Our sincere sympathy to you and all the family.
David Pang says
Jane and family. Very sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. Together with my family and all my brothers and their families we offer our deepest condolences to you and your family. I remember Gene coming to pick me up at the Toronto Airport when I first arrived in Canada in 1972 and the many wonderful picnics get together. Thank you Gene and may you rest in peace.
Afshin Nakhaei says
Dear Christopher,
You and your family are in my thoughts. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Judy Chau says
Dear Jane and Family,
So sorry to hear about Gene’s passing. We have been getting all the updates from Great Aunt Betty.
We have such fond and happy memories with you and Gene on every family gatherings either in TO or in NY. He was such a kind, friendly and out going guy. Always lots of fun talking about the RV and all the traveling adventures.
He will be missed for sure by everyone!!
Our deepest condolences.
From: Ken and Judy Chau Family, Sam and Rosa Mak Family from NYC.
Heather and Jayne Breedon says
Dear Jane and family. We are very saddened to hear of Gene’s passing. My Mom mentioned how she had seen the both of you at Ann’s house before it sold. My memories of Gene are when I was younger. I always thought that he had the best laugh.
May your memories give you comfort in the days and weeks to come.
Marvin Chantler says
Hi Jane. I just heard about Gene’s passing. I’m in Florida for the winter.
I offer my condolences and have you in my thoughts and prayers..
Gene and I attended Bradford District Hight School together (as did you) and he and I played hockey together at the old arena.. Gene was the goalie and I was the centre man.
We shared many fun memory’s together.
Gene you will be missed. Rest in Peace
Marv
Chris & Peggy Lotto says
Dear Jane
So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. Chris has known Gene since the 1950’s when they both lived on Simcoe St. in Bradford and Gene’s father owned Pong’s Restaurant on Holland St.
Our prayers are with you at this time.
Sincerely
Chris & Peggy Lotto
Jaqueline Chesney says
It’s with a heavy heart to learn about Mr. Pong’s passing. I have very fond memories of him. It’s true to say he will live on in the hearts of others. As he was always one of my favorite teachers, He taught me in grade 3. Was always kind and happy. Helpful. And made sure you knew he cared. I will always be thankful for the positive impression he made in my view of a what an amazing role model and how a teacher should be. Sending my deepest sympathies and love to the family and all those hearts who were touched by his kindness at this difficult time.
Much love
Jaqueline chesney
Alan and Wendy Masters says
We are so very sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. We remember his smile and always friendly helpful way at the home hardware.
Jane and family you are in our thoughts, hearts and prayers
Alan and Wendy Masters
Don Hutchinson says
Dear Jane and family it is with a sad heart I offer my condolences to you. I have fond memories of the summer family gatherings you held at your cottage for all the cousins and children to meet up. You and Gene were always gracious hosts. May you find comfort with family at this time.
Bill and Lynne Richardson says
Bill and I met Gene in January 2009 in Texas when he strolled across the street to our RV and asked if he could join us for happy hour. We discovered that he and Jane had a home on the Severn and our cottage was 45 minutes north and our home 45 minutes south of Severn. We could have lots of fun together winter and summer. So many memories for which to be thankful. Our sincere condolences to Jane and family.
Donna McFarlane says
Dear Jane and family,
I was so sorry to hear about Gene’s passing. I remember fondly high school days especially his little run ins with Mrs. Jenkins and also adventures at the pool hall where he taught me to play. I was so glad to see you in Texas when we had lunch a few years ago with the two of you and Roger and Verla.
Please accept my sincere condolences. I hope Gene’s final days at Matthews House brought comfort and care to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Donna (Stewart) McFarlane
Patricia Pang says
Dear Jane and family,
Gene was a wonderful person!
Our family will always treasure the fond memories of the annual family BBQ gatherings at your cottage. We all enjoyed the great foods, water sports and catching up with each other.
Gene will be greatly missed!
Words may not ease your pain or the sorrow that you bear. But may you find comfort in knowing that others care.
Our deepest condolences.
From,
Patricia Pang, Brian, Colleen, Alan Yip
Diane Haynes says
Dear Jane and family –
So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Diane and Sid Haynes
Jocelyn Dekerf says
My deepest condolences to Jane and her family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Gene was an amazing man with a contagious smile. He was a kind soul and extremely thoughtful to family and friends. I, like so many people will miss him dearly. Rest in peace my dear friend, we will meet again.
Ursula, Marcel and Kilani says
We are so sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. Sending Gene and his family our sincerest condolences. Our thoughts are with you all.
Stuart ,Lily, Kurt and Jade Hilton says
Those we love never truly leave us. For me hearing of Gene’s passing was as a blade to the heart. Such a good friend, husband, and father. Always with a smile and a friendly greeting, I always looked forward to visiting the family at the annual Pong picnic at first the farm and later the cottage. He will be missed in life but remembered forever in our inner thoughts.
Judy Long says
Jane and Family
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are all in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Shirley Duke says
Jane and family condolences to you I am very sorry for your loss.
Mary Scanlon says
I am saddened to hear of Gene’s passing. I will always remember our dance lessons where we met. Jane, you and Gene quickly eclipsed our meager attempts. I loved to see you two dancing together. I will always remember both of you as kind and genuine people. Our condolences, Brian and Mary Scanlon
Don and Tanya Clark says
Jane and family, Don and I are so sorry to hear about Gene’s passing. We so enjoyed the times we all shared. We will miss him.
With deepest sympathy, Don and Tanya
Roslyn, Jack and family says
We share in the bounty of family and love….taking for granted treasured times… till there is an empty place at the table and the void can never be filled
Gene, we’ll miss you at every family gathering…….
Jane, Gene Jr and Chris our family grieves with you. Much love always❤️
Jim Theobalds says
As a past President of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity at Ryerson University it is with deep sadness to hear of the paasing of Gene Pong.
Gene was a well respected brother and was well though of at the fraternity. He always had a kind word for everyone and will be sadly missed by all the brothers at Delta.
Jim Theobalds
Past President – Delta Sigma Phi fraternity
Linda Hughes Baker says
To Jane and family, my heartfelt condolences. Heartache fades away with the many precious memories remaining always. Wishing you strength on
your courageous journey.
Jane Rees says
Dear Jane,
I didn’t know that Gene had been ill. I am so sorry for the loss of a very dear man. May you and the boys feel the relief of knowing he is free and that his struggle is over. I am thinking of you all these days .
Love,
Jane
Hilda Pang says
Dear Jane and family,
I heard from Betty that Gene has not been well over the last few years but I didn’t expect the news of his passing so soon. Gene’s smiles, kindness and gentleness will always be remembered.
May you find hope and comfort from God as you’re grieving for such a significant loss.
Sending my love and hugs,
Hilda
Bob & Pat Jackson says
Jane and Family
Our sincere condolences for your loss.
Bob & Pat Jackson formerly Tottenham IGA
Pat Laurin says
My husband and I first met Gene and Jane in our winter place Texas. My husband and Gene both liked their motorcycles and rode their eventures with a group from Llano Park. I remember Gene with a smile on his face always. He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Gene.
Jane you are such a patient person and I know you must have some times when Gene was ill. My sad condolences to you.
Love and hugs
Michel Bullock says
Jane and Family
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Rick Hollingshead says
Jane and family, our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I have fond memories of spending time with you and Gene, all be it many years ago! Genes’ sense of humor always made family gatherings fun!
Rick and Susan.
Linda Armstrong says
So sorry to read of Mr Pong’s passing. He was so proud of his sons while I was their teacher.
The Cao Family says
Hi Gene, we are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family in this difficult time.
Rocky & Connie Mezzone says
So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He would always welcome us into the Hardware store with a warm smile. Condolences to the family.
Larry and Carol-Lynne Smilsky says
So sorry to hear this. I have fond memories of our boys going to school and playing together when they were young.
Cathy & Pete Birdsey says
Like so many, we remember Gene as a kind, generous, inclusive man.
We were neighbours with Gene and Jane in Texas and have many good memories of live bands, trail dancing, trips to Mexico and Happy Hours. Gene and Jane were avid dancers.
We also enjoyed their company, pontoon rides and paddle boarding, during their gatherings at their home in Port Severn, and Alliston.
We have had the pleasure of meeting several of Gene’s family members and we send our deepest sympathies and hope you find comfort in the special memories you have of him.
Our condolences to Jane and family
Graham Pigott says
We were sorry to hear about Gene. He was a friend and fraternity brother. He will be missed.
Allen. Betty Teamley says
Allen and Betty we leave our sincere wishes we met two wonderful people, Gene and Jane in Texas. The memories are strong. We played a lot of games we knew each other for many many years the best to Jane now and her family and we will remember Gene for the rest of our lives he was such a kind, gentle person to Jane and her family our best to you Allen, and Betty
John and Wendy Burston says
So sorry to hear about Gene’s passing. Being frequent customers of Tottenham Home Hardware we were always warmly welcomed in by Gene. He genuinely seemed pleased to see us. Such a sincere and friendly man. Although many years have gone by we have never forgotten him. May your family find comfort in the midst of your grieving.
Hebert Dekerf says
I am truly sorry to hear about Gene’s death. He was a great man and he will be truly missed and will always be remembered.
Linda Butler says
What a wonderfully written tribute to Gene. My friendship with Gene and Jane came about from spending our winter months in South Texas with them. He was such a gentle soul and a great neighbour. Special memories that will always be remembered.
Janice & John Motherwell says
Jane & Family, So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He was always such a happy and friendly person and it was always a pleasure to see and chat with him.
Hugs to you
Janice & John Motherwell
Kevin Johnson, Wendy Davidson says
It was a life well lived and he will be missed. Gene was always fun to be around and never made me feel unwelcome with all the time spent at your place in my youth. I’ll never forget his laugh… especially that time I told him that “I don’t think I’m allowed to eat that” when he was cooking some greens in the frying pan (probably bok choy – and he more than likely called it Chinese broccoli which would have given me anxiety lol).
I remember late nights at the hardware store when Chris and I would throw balls back and forth or play hide and seek while Gene and Jane did paperwork.
May he Rest in Peace knowing that he lived a full life and was the type of person that truly made a difference to the people around him.
Love from Kevin, Wendy, Benjamin and Emmeline xo
Bob and Anne Kellam says
I worked for Gene for a couple years at the Home of the Handy Man in the Tottenham Mall. Gene always had a great smile along with many stories which made working there such a fun place the work. Thanks Gene.
Our condolences to Jane, Gene and Chris.
Paul Cho says
Dear Gene and families,
May you all find moments of peace and stillness amidst the pain of your loss.
We were deeply saddened to hear about your recent loss. Please know that you have our deepest sympathies during this difficult time. Losing a loved one is never easy, but please take comfort in knowing that you are surrounded by people who care about you and want to support you.
Our thoughts are with you and yours.
Sincerely and much love,
Paul and Agnes Cho
Nancy & Tom Hewitt says
Gene was such a wonderful man. Always kind. I will always cherish the time we spent with them in Canada visiting and in Texas. He is more is missed❤️❤️
Pat Boland says
Jean was such a nice person, always had a smile and loved to chat. He was taken far too soon. Condolences to his family.
Sara Sideris says
Gene, my sincere condolences to you, Brian and your family. I’m sorry for the loss of your father and I hope with time that you heal and keep his memory alive and close to your heart always.