Bernie Wong Obituary

Bernarda “Bernie” Wong (nee Lo), 77, co-founder and retired CEO and president of the Chinese American Service League in Chicago passed away Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at home after a two-year battle with cancer. She was born October 24, 1943 in Hong Kong. Bernie was the beloved wife of the late Albert Wong, loving mother of Jacinta, and caring grandmother of Tiana and Matthew.

She was the youngest child of 7 siblings of the late Jorge Lo and Virginia Chia de Lo. She is mourned by her surviving sisters-in-law Rosaline Young and Sue Wong (Peter Wu), sisters-in law Margaret and Agnes Lo, brothers Albert (Selina), William (Violet), and Thomas (Esme) Lo, as well as 17 nieces and nephews, and 17 grand nieces and grand nephews. Bernie was preceded in death by her siblings George, Charles, and Fillis and brother-in-laws Bill Joe and Henry Young.

Bernie came to the United States to study at Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa. After getting her Masters degree in Social Work at Washington University, she followed her mother’s inspiration and began a career dedicated to helping others. She became a powerhouse champion for Chinatown, immigrants, the elderly and the needy, while remained dedicated to her family and friends. Her dedication and services resulted in numerous rewards given by the government, foundations and corporations (including one given by President Obama.)

Bernie was a devoted parishioner of the Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish. Visitation will be held Friday May 14, 2021 from 11 am until 7 pm at St. Therese Chinese Catholic Church in Chinatown (218 W. Alexander, Chicago, IL 60616.) Private funeral mass is scheduled on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at St Barbara’s Church at 10 am (2859 S. Throop Street, Chicago IL 60608).

In lieu of sending flowers to the family or bringing flowers to events, please make a donation to the Chinese American Service League in Bernie’s honor.