Penn Wong

Born on March 9, 1938 in Bak Sa (白沙), Toishan, Guangdong, China, Penn Wong was the youngest of three children. He was predeceased by his sister, Jenny Mar (née Wong), her husband Harry Mar, his brother Chew Wing Wong, and his wife Anna Wong. Penn was also predeceased by his mother, Chik Chan Wong, and father, Jack Wong.

At the age of 13, Penn immigrated to Canada with his family. They settled in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, where Penn completed his grade school education. Afterward, he moved to Wyoming to join his sister and attended the University of Wyoming. Later, he moved to Regina, where he met Diane. They began dating, and during these years, Penn had a profound encounter with Christianity, which he often referred to as a defining moment in his life, radically altering his path.

Penn and Diane were married on August 6, 1966, in Regina, Saskatchewan. They later moved to Calgary, where both embarked on their teaching careers. During this time, Diane became involved in a small Chinese university student Bible study group that met in a garage. As the group grew, they moved to the old Centre Street church basement, and eventually found another space to gather as a church. As they continued to grow, a realtor from Foothills Alliance Church, found a piece of land in Beddington, which became the Chinese Alliance Church. During these years, Penn and Diane had two daughters, Delisa and Tanya.

Over the years, Penn served the Chinese Alliance Church in various roles, including elder, deacon, youth group leader, and as a "jack of all trades," always willing to help wherever needed. The church was like family to him, and he cherished being a part of that community. In the last 10 to 12 years of his life, Penn and Diane attended Foothills Alliance Church, where they made many new friends and found new ways to serve and contribute to another loving community.

Penn had a deep love for the outdoors. He often loaded the car with cross-country skis, sandwiches, and snacks to take his family on mountain adventures. His connection to nature was strong, and he found peace and solitude in the mountains, often sitting on his deck at home and calling this his “cruise”, a space where he could reflect and experience moments with God.

Penn found immense joy in his grandchildren: Matthew (20), Avarie (18), Kalyssa (17), Everett (16), and Emerson (13). They filled his life with pride, laughter, and deep contentment. Known as the "baby whisperer" when they were young, he cherished every moment with them. As they grew older, Penn continued to be their biggest cheerleader, always encouraging them to reach their full potential. He took great pride in watching them become the incredible individuals they were. His 59.5 years of marriage to Diane reflected his unwavering commitment, joy, and love.

Above all, Penn lived a life marked by his faith in Jesus. His encounter with Christ transformed him, and he strove to live a life of generosity, service to others, and love. His legacy is one of a deep commitment to his family, church, and community.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Service on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at Foothills Alliance Church (333 Edgepark Blvd Calgary AB T3A 4K4) from 2:30pm - 3:30pm.  Light refreshments will follow after the service.