Obituary of Peony Mah Don Wong

June 10, 1933 – Toi Shan, China

March 28, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Peony Wong (nee Mah), beloved wife of Ben Wong for 67 years at the age of 89 on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

Peony was born to the late Soo Yee Wong and Charlie Mah in Toi Shan, China. She immigrated to Canada in 1950 and lived up north in Fort Chipewyan, AB with her family. In 1956, Peony married Ben in Edmonton and then moved to Calgary. Peony received her beautician license in 1965. She opened her first business; Sara Lee Beauty Salon, with four friends and then worked at the Beverly Nursing Home as a hairdresser.

Once retired, Peony devoted her time to gardening and growing beautiful flowers, and raising her eight grandchildren. She also found time to dedicate herself to being an active Chinese community member.  She held multiple executive positions and terms in the Wong's Association and founded the Hon Sing Musical Society in Calgary. Her devotion to the community extended to numerous fund-raising events with the Hon Sing Musical Society to support local charities and hospitals. Her wholehearted dedication aimed to enrich the lives of seniors. She enjoyed traveling, singing, dancing with her friends, and watching TV side by side with her dearest Ben.

Peony was passionate about keeping her family well-fed. She immensely enjoyed gathering with friends and family. Relentlessly through trial and error, she perfected her Chinese cooking which she happily shared. Spreading her joy, she touched the hearts of many. Her generous spirit will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Peony is remembered as a loving mother and mother-in-law of Wayne, Rose, William (Christine), Steven, Nora (Panayotis), and Darlene; cherished grandmother of Brandon, Erica, Elizabeth, Benjamin, Sarah (Dallis), Serena, Steven, and Shaela; dear sister and sister-in-law of late George Mah (late Florence) and late Dickie Mah (Kim), as well as fondly remembered by her nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queens Park Cemetery. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Peony, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.