Susie Yong, our longtime office administrator, has died. She passed away the night of January 10 at her home in Hilo. She had celebrated her 63rd birthday just three days earlier.
Her work at Environment Hawai`i was part-time, but no less valued for that. She also worked, full-time, as a manager at Abundant Life, a natural food store in downtown Hilo. In addition, she volunteered on the board of her condominium association and the Hilo Community Players, an amateur theater group.
Born in China, Susie was brought to the Boston area by her parents at an early age. Her mother died while Susie was a young child. Growing up, she helped out at her father’s laundry. She never shied away from hard work and was diligent, honest, and gracious in everything she did.
Susie would sometimes speak of the many things she hoped to have time for in retirement: A trip to Paris, finding more time for her sketching, going back to China – all were on Susie’s bucket list. She is survived by two daughters and three grandchildren, all living in Massachusetts. She had bought a ticket to visit them in March.
Those of you who have called our office may remember Susie as the ever-courteous and accommodating voice. She was also a first-class proofreader who, over the years, saved us from untold numbers of embarrassing goofs.
Everyone who knew Susie was absolutely sure that they were her very best friend. She was just that kind and loving.
We grieve for her loss.
Volume 23, Number 8 February 2013
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