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Hong May Ian, known to family and friends as Hong, was born on November 18, 1952, in Guangzhou, China, and passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, in Naperville, Illinois, at the age of 73, surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Hong will be remembered as a loving, kind person and a man of faith whose gentle presence touched the lives of all who knew him. He carried himself with quiet strength, warmth, and humility, and he had a special way of making others feel welcome and cared for. His life was marked by devotion to his family, steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, and a deep appreciation for the simple but meaningful moments shared with those closest to him.
He was the beloved husband of Lai Fong Tsang, and their marriage was a lasting example of partnership, loyalty, and affection. Together, they built a home filled with love, support, and devotion. Hong was a cherished father to Catherine and Fiona, and he took great pride in his daughters. He guided them with patience, encouraged them with wisdom, and loved them unconditionally throughout their lives. His role as a father was one of the greatest joys of his life, and his presence will be dearly missed by his family.
Hong was a devoted son to his father, mother, and stepmother, a loving brother to his six brothers and two sisters, and he deeply valued the bonds of family throughout his life. He was a devoted uncle to Winnie & Ricky Mat, and Priscilla & Myles Ian, and he held a special place in the hearts of his extended family. His relatives will remember his kindness, his friendly nature, and the steady care he showed to those around him. The love he gave so freely will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Those who knew Hong will remember his gracious spirit and his ability to bring comfort and calm to others through his Christian faith. He was a man who led by example, offering kindness without hesitation and friendship without condition. His life reflected the values of compassion, respect, and family devotion, and his memory will remain a source of strength and comfort to those who loved him.
A memorial service will be held on April 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Wheaton Chinese Alliance Church, 1748 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Hong’s life and to honor the many ways he blessed those around him.
Though his passing leaves a deep void, Hong’s legacy of love, kindness, and faith will endure in the hearts of his family and all who knew him. He will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude, and his memory will be cherished always.
In lieu of flowers, donations, if desired, may be made to the Northwestern Memorial Foundation, designated to the Canning Thoracic Institute, Center of Cancer Innovation, Lung Cancer Program (foundation.nm.org), or to LUNGevity (https://www.lungevity.org/get-involved/ways-to-give?form=GeneralDonations).
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hong May Ian, please visit our floral store.