ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Herbert Leong 96 years old, born on October 1, 1923 and passed away on December 13, 2019. 

Colonel Herbert Leong served in the US Army Air Corp (later, the US Air Force) from 1943-1978.  He served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam where he earned The Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam medals.  He flew and instructed in diverse aircraft including the B-17 Bomber, the Cessna AT-17 "Bobcat", the C124 GlobeMaster, the Douglas C-47, the B25, the T33, the T38, the HH53 "Jolly Green Giant" Helicopter, and the C130 "Hercules" Search Aircraft.  His roles included Pilot, Special Agent, Instructor, Squadron Commander, and Air Commander for CSAR (Combat Sea & Air Rescue) in Vietnam, culminating in his elevation to "full bird" Colonel.  His loving family adores his spirit and is proud of all of his accomplishments. His youngest granddaughter always felt special when she would see him saluted at every air base they drove into. 

Herbert was preceded in death by his wife Edna, brother Peter, and brother Richard.  He is survived by his younger sister, Evelyn Wong; daughter Jeri Eng and husband Richard; son Craig Leong and wife Susan; granddaughter Amber Yew, husband David, and great granddaughter Lauren; granddaughter Audra Eng, and husband Joe Thoennes.

We will remember him always. His wife, Edna, passed in 2014, and their 72 year marriage was a great love story of adventure and joy.  Please celebrate Herbert and Edna's life with us, and share memories with all who loved them.  Click the STORIES tab above & share your fond memories of Herb & Edna with all of us.
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
I moved next door to Herb and Edna in Rancho Murieta in 1989. They immediately became substitute parents to my husband and me, and later substitute grandparents to my children, as my parents lived out of state. We could not have had more loving, giving, and just outright wonderful neighbors and friends. After our children were born, instead of being annoyed by my busy little boys, Herb and Edna just doted on them, and on me. They showered us with food, presents, and love. And their yard was impeccable, thanks to Herb, who never stopped caring for his home and garden. I can still hear Edna telling Herbert to get off the ladder when he was easily in his 70s! And the fact that Herb was such a decorated Air Force officer, and had such an amazing military history, was so impressive to my boys. It was so sad to have to leave them as neighbors when we moved in 2000. Herb and Edna have always had a special place in my heart, and I am thankful that God honored us with their friendship. Heaven has gained two wonderful people! 
October 19, 2020
October 19, 2020
Just today I was looking at a photo of my father with Colonel Leong in Vietnam. My father, Lt. Colonel John F. Vallone really liked him and was sharing with me some stories of the two of them today. After my talk with my father I had hoped to find Colonel Leong on the internet to reunite them and am very sorry to see that he has passed. Such a nice man. I wish everyone could stay young and be with us forever. What a truly great generation he was part of. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. If the family would like to reach me to possibly talk to my father about Colonel Leong and share some stories my email is jvallonecr@aol.com. May God Bless Colonel Leong.
August 20, 2020
August 20, 2020
I have fond memories of Aunt Edna and Uncle Herbert. I remember the times when it was their turn to host the monthly Chinese Couples Club dinner with my parents, Eva and Harry Woo at our house - fun times and great food. Years later when I visit them at Cape Canaveral, they were incredibly welcoming and gracious. They made the world a better place. My deepest condolences to their family.
January 21, 2020
January 21, 2020
Although I didn't know Herbert Leong until Audra and Joe married, when Dave and I visited for the first time, he made us feel welcome. While there we heard many stories about Herbert's years in the Air Force and they were quite a story.
Mr. Leong, we thank you for your service to our country. We are honored to have known you.
December 25, 2019
December 25, 2019
It was my pleasure to have met Col. Leong. He was a gentleman and an American Hero. Thank you for your service to the country and us all.
God Bless you. You are now free to fly the unlimited ceiling skies of Heaven at will.
Russ Mullins - Galveston
December 25, 2019
December 25, 2019
My family and I were so saddened to hear about the passing of my brother Herbert. We all loved him very much and have so many great memories of him! He was such a great story teller, sharing his stories about his career, travels, retirement and how proud he was of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. He had a super "green" thumb when it came to taking care of his garden and his landscape at his beautiful home in Rancho Murieta! We will always keep the fun memories of the countless Thanksgiving dinners, hosted by Edna and Herb, close to our hearts. Edna was a fantastic cook and Herb was the best host!!! My brother was a true Officer and a Gentleman!! We were always proud of him and will miss him dearly! Love, Evelyn, Dennis and Punkin
December 23, 2019
December 23, 2019
Uncle Herbert and Auntie Edna were always favorites of mine. My mom, Janet, and Auntie Edna are sisters. I still remember Uncle Herbert's audiotapes and stories from Vietnam while he was there and the photo slideshows at their home near Rancho Seco in California. Although I was always proud of Uncle Herbert being a Colonel, I will never forget him as a person of such great and decent character. My wife, Rhoda, and I love and miss him.
December 21, 2019
December 21, 2019
Uncle Herbert lived a great life. I always enjoyed his stories he would tell during our family Xmas get togethers. It was a lot of fun doing Christmas gift exchanges with Uncle Herbert and Auntie Edna at Auntie Evelyn's house. Uncle Herbert spent many years helping his brother, Peter, with medical, financial, and every day living needs. He did a great job keeping such meticulous records. It made my job easier when I assumed that responsible when Uncle Herbert moved to Texas. I will keep Auntie Edna and Uncle Herbert in my heart.
December 18, 2019
December 18, 2019
Herb was a very hard worker. He landscaped his front and back yard for a year before he would played golf. He was a very good golfer.

Very kind to all, never rude. When Harry was dying in the hospital, Herb visit him and stayed for a long time. It was very comforting for me.
December 15, 2019
December 15, 2019
Gung was an amazing grandfather, always generous and loving. He always believed in me and my abilities and I looked up to him as a role model. He spoiled me by buying all the shoes I ever wanted when I was only 6, taking me to Disney World multiple times, staying at 5 star resorts, taking me to my freshman orientation at University of Texas, and supporting me throughout my entire life. He was always happy to see me and I am forever grateful to him and my grandmother for all their love and support.
December 15, 2019
December 15, 2019
Gung was a wonderful great grandfather, and I will miss him very much. I cherish the memories of driving with him in his golf cart, listening to his training stories, and watching his magic tricks. He was always very giving and the best great grandfather anyone could ask for. Love you lots.
December 15, 2019
December 15, 2019
I will always have fond memories of Gung and Pau. When I was a child, visits to see Gung and Pau were highly anticipated. When I married, Gung immediately made David feel welcome and part of our family. Later, I watched and marveled how he developed the a loving relationship with
my daughter, Lauren. Gung said that with Lauren, he had been "promoted, moving up a rank to Tai Gung-gung".  I loved seeing how Gung relished his role as Lauren's great grandfather.

Several years ago, I was surprised when Gung asked me to help him and Pau. I was honored to help take care of him and Pau in their final years. I admit that it was difficult watching him and Pau become more ill and frail. It was hard seeing the effects of dementia . Yet, even during his final weeks, he would still tell me how beautiful I was and that he loved me. We will miss him.

With his life, Gung set examples for us: having a wonder family, having many dear friends, positively influencing those around you, and making life meaningful and full of love. These gifts are life lessons. Thank you so much Gung. We love you.

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December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
I moved next door to Herb and Edna in Rancho Murieta in 1989. They immediately became substitute parents to my husband and me, and later substitute grandparents to my children, as my parents lived out of state. We could not have had more loving, giving, and just outright wonderful neighbors and friends. After our children were born, instead of being annoyed by my busy little boys, Herb and Edna just doted on them, and on me. They showered us with food, presents, and love. And their yard was impeccable, thanks to Herb, who never stopped caring for his home and garden. I can still hear Edna telling Herbert to get off the ladder when he was easily in his 70s! And the fact that Herb was such a decorated Air Force officer, and had such an amazing military history, was so impressive to my boys. It was so sad to have to leave them as neighbors when we moved in 2000. Herb and Edna have always had a special place in my heart, and I am thankful that God honored us with their friendship. Heaven has gained two wonderful people! 
October 19, 2020
October 19, 2020
Just today I was looking at a photo of my father with Colonel Leong in Vietnam. My father, Lt. Colonel John F. Vallone really liked him and was sharing with me some stories of the two of them today. After my talk with my father I had hoped to find Colonel Leong on the internet to reunite them and am very sorry to see that he has passed. Such a nice man. I wish everyone could stay young and be with us forever. What a truly great generation he was part of. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. If the family would like to reach me to possibly talk to my father about Colonel Leong and share some stories my email is jvallonecr@aol.com. May God Bless Colonel Leong.
August 20, 2020
August 20, 2020
I have fond memories of Aunt Edna and Uncle Herbert. I remember the times when it was their turn to host the monthly Chinese Couples Club dinner with my parents, Eva and Harry Woo at our house - fun times and great food. Years later when I visit them at Cape Canaveral, they were incredibly welcoming and gracious. They made the world a better place. My deepest condolences to their family.
Recent stories

Condolences

December 19, 2019
Hi Craig, 
I am very sorry to read the sad news. 
I met your Dad and Mom only once for a couple of days, but I cherish the memories of the time I spent together with you and them and of their generous hospitality. 
No matter how one may be prepared for the passing away of a loved one, it is always very tough when it happens.
My sincerest condolences to you and your family,
Paolo Colombi
SMU, MBA 1975 -PS: What is your email address? Mine is: colombi.paolo@gmail.com 
December 16, 2019
Uncle Herbert was always very nice to me! He always talked to me at family get-togethers so that I wasn't alone and emailed me when he moved to Texas before he went in the facility. We talked about politics, and that made me feel respected because he didn't think that I was stupid because I am disabled.

He was so funny: He used to make multiple fb accounts and add me because he forgot his password hahaha!

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