Biography
Our beloved Lasallian and chapter’s soccer team player Baltazar P. Aguirre ’77, a.k.a. “Jing”, aged 61, passed away peacefully on June 15th 2022.
Baltazar was an active Old Boy. He represented us to play in the North American La Salle Old Boys Soccer Tournament for many years. His dedication and determination always helped our team move towards victory.
Off the field, he was a kind and gentle person with true La Salle spirit. He had a special kind of calmness and friendliness that made people take an immediate liking to him. In addition to his work in the family business, he joined the Daly City Policy Station as a Police Assistant for 21 years of dedicated services. He was also a devout Catholic who served as a Sacristan for 10 years at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception in San Francisco. He lived his faith in a humble and quiet way and served the community with zeal and faith.
He brought us so many great memories, and will always live in our hearts.
May he rest in peace in God’s embrace.
Obituary
Beloved son, brother and uncle, Baltazar Juan P. Aguirre III, passed away peacefully in Our Lord’s Grace at 1:13 am, Wednesday, June 15, 2022.
Baltazar was called Jing as a nickname by family members. He was named after his father, Baltazar, Jr. and his patron saint, St. John the Baptist. He was born to Baltazar Aguirre, Jr. and Carmen Aguirre, in Manila, Philippines, on June 24, 1960. He was educated by the La Salle Brothers, both in Hong Kong British Crown Colony and in the Philippines. He was a phenomenal athlete in school, being a gifted soccer player and track and field star that won him awards including his winning goal that gave La Salle High School Greenhills, the NCAA Championship over Ateneo High School.
He graduated from the University of the Philippines (Diliman Campus) with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the military after completing ROTC. He successfully completed the Army Ranger course earning him the coveted “Ranger” tab. He was a member of the University of the Philippines Vanguard Fraternity (U.P. Banaag, Class of 1981).
He emigrated to the United States in 1986 and worked at his brother’s family business in San Francisco. Baltazar joined the Daly City Police Department as a Police Assistant in 1998, retiring in 2019 after 21 years of dedicated service. As “PA5” (his radio call-sign), he was assigned to the Traffic Division, performing parking enforcement duties and concurrently served as the department’s Court Liaison Officer. He was one of the first Police Assistants to be assigned as Court Officer.
Baltazar’s role as a Court Officer provided him with a deeper appreciation of how the justice system works, from arrest to prosecution and judgement, and witnessed the hard work and dedication of Daly City’s detectives and patrol officers. He valued the relationships he developed over the years with the Department’s Investigation Division, Patrol, Property, Records, as well as the County’s District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, and the Superior Court Judges he worked with.
He had a keen interest in current events and history and was well versed particularly in foreign policies and international affairs, an interest he inherited from his late father. He was a car enthusiast and had the skill of identifying second-hand vehicles in pristine condition. He liked to relax by watching the English Premier League soccer games, documentaries, classic car shows and vintage television shows.
As a former school athlete, it was always a joyful experience for him to play in the La Salle Old Boys soccer tournament as part of their annual reunion. It was an opportunity for him to reconnect with former classmates, teammates and teachers from Hong Kong. He also enjoyed meeting up with his U.P. Vanguard fraternity brothers at their gatherings. His other interests were learning how to play the piano and taking up Italian lessons.
Baltazar was a devout Catholic who lived his faith in a humble and quiet way. He served as a Sacristan for ten (10) years at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception in San Francisco. He had deep devotions to the Holy Eucharist, to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Divine Mercy.
He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy Church in Daly City and Star of the Sea Catholic Church in San Francisco. He organized the annual Divine Mercy Sunday celebration at St. Bruno’s Church in San Bruno for over twenty (20) years. He volunteered every year for the 40 Days For Life by standing in prayerful vigil outside the Planned Parenthood at Baywood, San Mateo. He loved and defended the unborn.
He had a fraternal love for his Priest friends who supported him with their Masses and prayers, and with whom he shared a deep relationship with the Lord. He would also assist some pastors he knew, in facilitating with the Police Department for the orderly traffic flow when they held outdoor religious processions during parish festivals.
On June 12, 2022, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, he was received into the Dominican Order (Order of Preachers) as a member of the Dominican Laity of the Corpus Christi Chapter in Menlo Park, of which his sister Charo is also a member. He was generous with his time helping the Chapter with their events, driving them to retreats. He had a special bond with the Dominican nuns of Corpus Christi Menlo Park, helping them with their photography needs during special occasions at their Monastery.
He loved to travel and most of his travels were with his sisters, Magda and Charo. He was able to make Marian Pilgrimages to Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico, Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Paris, France and Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal.
In 2009, on a trip to the Vatican with his two sisters, he personally met and spoke with Pope Benedict XVI during the General Audience.
In 2013, during a trip to Rome to attend Pope Benedict XVI’s final audience, Baltazar was interviewed by the Catholic News Agency which was published in the San Francisco Catholic.
In 2015 he organized a special family 3-country trip to Europe (France, Italy and England) touring seven cities highlighted by a visit to see the Shroud of Turin in public display, a trip to Normandy, France for the 71st anniversary of D-Day and, being a lifelong Manchester United Football Club supporter, watched the Legends match against Bayern Munich at their stadium at Old Trafford.
In 2016, he went to Spain with his sisters to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the founding of the Dominican Order, visiting Madrid and Barcelona as well as St. Dominic’s birthplace in Caleruega.
In November 2017, he and his sisters made a pilgrimage to Fatima, Portugal in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima.
In 2018, Baltazar had an opportunity to bond with his two brothers, Dennis and Ray by making a special trip to Scotland to watch The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. They also went to London to watch a Chelsea Football Club soccer match at Stamford Bridge.
Baltazar was a beloved brother to Maria Magdalena (Magda), Dennis, Maria Rosario (Charo) and Raymund (Ray) Aguirre. He was a loving uncle who was affectionately called “Tito Jing” by Kevin (wife Mary), Ryan and Christen Aguirre (children of Dennis) and Matthew Aguirre (son of Ray).
He will be deeply missed by many because of his kindness and compassion for others. He was a true gentleman and a man of integrity. He will always be remembered for his goodness, generosity, selflessness and joyful disposition.
Above all, his life centered on love for God and neighbor, manifested in his fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church, his service to the public and his undying devotion to his family. His reward awaits him now.
In Heaven!
Biography
Dr. Chan completed his primary and secondary education at La Salle College, Hong Kong. He thereafter graduated from University of Hong Kong and received his first medical degrees. He further obtained professional qualifications from the United Kingdom. He was awarded Fellowships by a number of Medical Professional Institutions and qualified as a specialist in Cardiology, Hong Kong Medical Council in 1999. Since graduation, Dr. Chan served as a medical doctor at Queen Mary Hospital, Grantham Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital until he started his private practice in 1985. Throughout his professional life, Dr. Chan had also provided medical care to low-income households at Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions Workers Medical Clinics. He was well praised by his patients for his devotion and selflessness. He was survived by his wife Teresa, daughter Dawn and son Leo.
Biography
As posted by Edward ‘BB’ Ko (1980) on June 27, 2008. (Please view with Chinese Big 5 software) Unquote I am saddened to report the passing away of fellow classmate, 陳德堅 Kenneth Chan Tak Kin earlier this month. He is survived by his wife Gloria. Kenneth will always be remembered as an extremely talented musician, having written numerous songs recorded by major artists (who can forget 幾分鐘的約會 sung by Danny Chan” ) and a big time prankster, but above all, a most caring friend. He will be missed dearly. Unquote Kenneth’s biography as found in Tom Lee Music Foundation, where Kenneth worked, is as follows: 陳德堅 自幼在家庭的薰陶下接觸音樂，更愛上音樂創作；於喇沙書院畢業後便從事音樂工作，曾創作了不少膾炙人口的流行歌曲。陳氏自一九八零年起成為C.A.S.H.協會的會員並於同年加入通利音樂基金會任職電子琴導師。翼年，陳氏勇奪YAMAHA電子琴大賽的傑出阜峌獎，更連續三年奪得該浦猗。 非常享受教學生活的陳氏往後更專注於兒童音樂教育工作，並於一九八五年起出任YAMAHA兒童音樂課程之首席導師達十多年之久。陳氏於一九九五年考獲YAMAHA電子琴及Fundamental三級考試，即達 國際 認可 之 導師級 水平 。陳氏自一九九八年起即出任 YAMAHA 兒童音樂課程總監一職。Kenneth自言最大的得著便是看見學生們一天一天的進步，那種內心喜悅及滿足感確是非筆墨所能形容。這亦是他鞭策自己的一大推動力! Kenneth’s biography as posted on the Tom Lee Music Foundation as the Director of YAMAHA Courses: Kenneth Chan started his piano lessons under the influence of his parents and fell for music composition since then. He started his career as a composer after graduating from La Salle College and composed lots of classic songs which captured audiences’ heart. He became a member of the Composer and Author Society of H.K.(C.A.S.H.) since 1980 and joined Tom Lee Music Foundation as an Electone Teacher at the same time. Kenneth won the Outstanding Performance Award of the Yamaha Electone Festival for 3 consecutive years since 1981. Kenneth had fully devoted his time & energy in Yamaha music education system and became the Head Teacher of Yamaha Children Music Course since 1985. He obtained the Yamaha Electone & Fundamental Grade 3 in 1995 and became the Music Director of the Yamaha Children Music Course since 1998. His pleasure in teaching is the fulfillment and happiness brought from his students. His enthusiasm urges him to make steady progress everyday!
Biography
Posted on the OBA Chatboard by Dr. Robert Yuen Kar Ngai (71) on 29 July 2005
Quote: It was with regret that we heard of the news that Dr. CHAN Wai Kai, a prominent Catholic ophthamologist in private practice in Central and old boy of LSC in its early days had passed away recently. He had been, among other things, Honorary Lecturer in Ophthamologist of HKU, teaching generations of medical students the clinical science of eye diseases and Master of the Guild of St. Luke (Hong Kong Catholic Doctors’ Association). He would be long remembered as a gentle and generous doctor with deep empathy for his patients and their families. Unquote
Dr Chan was also the Chairperson of the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society between 1969 and 1971.
Biography
Brother Anthony Cheung, La Salle Brother, passed away, in Assunta Hospital in the early hours of 25 May 1999 after a long illness. Soon after retirement in 1997 he was not in the best of health but remained reasonably active till his admission to Assunta Hospital on 5 April. Brother Anthony Cheung, though born in Hong Kong, chose to remain in Malaysia to exercise his ministry in five La Sallian establishments. Wherever he was, be it in Penang, Taiping, Kowloon, lpoh or Petaling Jaya, he was noted as a man of many talents which he put to use for the good of his students, readers and subjects in training. He is better known as the editor of the popular students’ magazine “Crusader” which was always looked forward to by the students in Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. Through this ministry he built a wide network of friends and well-wishers who donated generously to his charitable works for the orphans and poor of India. Over and above his main interest in publishing the “Crusader”, later renamed “The Young Lasallian”, he was the indefatigable secretary and confidante to five Provincials that spanned a record-breaking 30 years. Information obtained from http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/A-Cheung.htm According to a Br. Felix in Malaysia advised that Br. Anthony Cheung is buried in Cheras Christian Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur. When in KL, visitors can take a taxi to the cemetery. One should follow the road to the top of hill to his left where there is a small unused reception chapel. The Brothers are buried in a straight row to the right of the chapel as one approaches it. Br. Felix (residing in Petaling Jaya, a suburb of KL) says he is willing to assist with a visit help if necessary or the Brothers at St John’s Institution could also help. If any Old Boy visits the cemetery, please take photos of the graves and send them to the [email protected], as there may be other Brothers who worked in HK (not only LSC) who are buried there, and the OBA would like to help the Brothers in Hong Kong with such findings. Thank you.
| Contributed by: | TC 2012-05-21 18:46:01 |
| Description: | I was one of those who lived with Br Anthony Cheung in Petaling Jaya. I was under his tutelage; there were more than 15 at one stage. He was the Director of the Scholasticate programme. He taught cathecism in La Salle Primary School (Br. Leo was Headmaster). He was an inspiration to all the young Lasallians through his publication which was very popular. He also used to collect and re-sell used stamps and the money was sent to India. Many well-wishers used to collect used stamps and they would arrive; a great place for teenage schoolboys to spend hours looking through and selecting the used stamps. What strikes me most was he was a Brother that gave out red packets during Chinese New Year and we all looked forward to that; especially those who did not go back home. He was a Brother. And he was family. |
| Contributed by: | Chu T C’71 2004-08-24 19:50:10 |
| Description: | As far as I know, he never taught at LSPS but only at LSC. Aside from the above contributions, Bro. Anthony-Philip was well known for his work in setting up and was the conductor/music director of the LSC orchestra. During the summer holidays, he and the late Bro. Henry organised boating and swimming outings for the orchestral members and families. Another area he was actively involved in was in “training and recruiting” (I do not know the religious term)young men as future Brothers. He had four under his “tutelage” at one time but unfortunately, the program did not achieve the successes that we all hoped for. |
Biography
The following was posted on the OBA Chatboard (modified) on David Cheung’s passing.
RIP David Cheung (63) Dear All
I am very saddened to share with you that David Cheung (63), a former loyal Committee Member of the LSCOBA for many years, passed away early Wednesday morning, 20th January 2010. David suffered from cancer, which was discovered middle of 2009.
David was extremely proud to be a Lasallian, and he had been a loyal supporter of Lasallian affairs for many years.
At 11 years old, David left Pooi To (培道) Primary School and entered LSC’s P5 in January 1956 (at that time LSPS was not yet open). The school was then located on Perth Street. In Sept 1956, he repeated P5 as the academic standard of his former school was different from La Salle’s. In September 1957, David entered the new LSPS grounds on La Salle Road as a P6 boy. David entered LSC F1 in 1959, which was still occupying the Perth Street Campus, so he had to move from LSPS La Salle Road to Perth Street. In F2, he returned to La Salle Road campus as the school moved back to La Salle Road after the British Army released the building back to the Brothers.
So he used to tell me that, as a kid, he had a very confused childhood, as he didn’t understand why he had to move school (campus) all the time!! David offered me much help with my research into Perth Street, through his many stories and personal memories, like opening an umbrella in a leaking classroom during heavy rain, folding paper boats and setting them off in a flooded classroom, burning the grass of the hill behind the school etc.
David studied all the way to F7 in LSC, and then left HK for studies in N. America.
David was a faithful supporter of many school events and sports competitions. When I played soccer for La Salle in the early 1980s, David was already watching interschool games. Besides, David was always full of life. He was a globe-trotter and visited dozens of countries worldwide in all continents, including many very exotic destinations. He once told me he had visited all provinces of China, including the origins of Huang Ho in Qinghai Province, and I think he had to engage a jeep and a driver and it took days of poor roads to get there. David had been a travel columnist for a magazine, sharing his travel tales.
Besides his travel, David had achieved some outstanding episodes in life that few could match. He had completed many 100Km Oxfam HK Trailwalkers and half marathrons through the years, and also completed many Sower Action walks to Guangzhou from HK, fund raising for the charity. However, those achievements were only warm-ups for this man’s ultimate challenge of his life, a 2,800 kilometres walk from HK to Beijing, also for Sower’s Action to raise funds for China’s needy school children. While participants could take part by picking different stages of the walk to Beijing, David is said to be the only participant to walk every day of the 120 day walk, two others who walked the full journey were taken ill on some of the days in between. The group walked 6 days a week, and on the rest day, David still had energy to go to the local Chinese discos for some dancing and fun, he recalled. On the journey, David he wore out three pairs of shoes and shed quite a few pounds on the way, and he was very happy all through the journey.
David was still serving in the OBA Committee up to the term 2008-09. In June 2009, at an OBA Committee dinner gathering, the committee gave David a surprise birthday celebration, and he could not stop smiling that evening. Unfortunately, soon after, David learnt that he had cancer in the throat.
I visited David just before Christmas in his office, and although he was considerably thinner, he was still relatively bright. As an insurance agent, he was still eagerly “running numbers”, and was proud to show me he was still one the top of top agents in his team, and was due to win another trip! As we departed at our last encounter, he still offered me a firm handshake, and I told him to keep fighting and he gave me a nod. A few weeks ago, the man happily went on the last earthly trip, to Vietnam. Good for him! He returned to HK on the 16th January, and recommenced work on 18th January. He was still working on 19th January, and he passed away on the 20th January. This guy truly lives life to its full, and with no regrets.
Many of us in La Salle will remember David in our own fond way. At the Committee meeting of the OBA later that January, the Committee observed a minute’s silence for David.
From being much a senior to me, seeing me play football for LSC when I was in my early teens in the early 1980s, David became a life long friend of mine, enjoying hikes, jokes, the Trailwalker, hearty meals, stories and pranks, and also serving the interests for old boys in the OBA in the committee. Please pray for the soul of David, and we will see him in heaven later.
David, who turned closer to God in his final days, was a bachelor and lived with his father, stepmother and one of his younger sisters in Kowloon City, the same place he called home since at least his 1950s La Salle Perth Street days.
With a heavy heart,
Mark Huang (85)
Photos of David on his 2,800Km walk to Beijing. David is wearing shorts in the center in the first photo, and the only one wearing shorts in the second.
Biography
The following was shared by Mark Huang (85) on 18 Sep-2000
We are saddened to learn of the passing away of fellow our brother and Old Boy, Godfrey da Silva (74). After a brief illness, Godfrey passed away peacefully in Middlesex, UK on 31 August 2000, while travelling. He was 42. Born in 1958, Godfrey spent his secondary school years from 1969 to 1976 in La Salle College, completing Matriculation at class Form 7A in 1976. He was known for his interest in drama and plays. After graduation from La Salle College, he loyally served in the Hong Kong Police Force for 21 years since 1979 till his untimely death. His last posting in the Police Force was with the Homantin Division as a Senior Police Inspector. A Memorial Service will be held on 21 September 2000, Thursday, at Rosary Church, Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, commencing at 2:45 PM. All Lasallians are welcome. Godfrey was unmarried, and is survived by his family. On behalf of all Lasallians, we send our deepest sympathy to Godfrey’s family, and pray for God’s blessings on Godfrey’s soul. Regards Mark Huang
Biography
In the attached photo, Dinga stands proudly with his classmates in the soccer team “Forties”. Dinga is the standing on the farthest right.
Biography
The following was shared by Alexander Cheung (82) on 14-Jun-03 00:14 Dear Fellow Old Boys, I am sorry to inform you that Eddy Fong, Shek Kong(42) has passed away, and his funeral will be held at the R.H. Kane Funeral Home on Yonge Street on Monday(16th), details are in today’s Chinese newspapaers.Eddy was one of the pre-war students in LSC, and his son Albert Fong and his grandchild are both Lasallians. Eddy served as director for our Chapter in the capacity of VP in the 80’s. I had the privilage of meeting See Hing Fong recently in May, and am indeed sadened to know of his passing. Let us pray for his family and may his soul rest in peace. Alexander K.Y. Cheung President Toronto HKLSOBA
Biography
The following was posted by Mark Huang (85) on 04-May-2001 Dear all, especially those from Year 85, With a heavy heart, I announce the news that Peter Fung (Tak Bong) of Year 85 left us peacefully on 24 April 2001 after suffering from a tumor growth near his spine. He had been fighting the illness for several years, and his condition had improved for two years, before the condition returned recently. I personally did not know Peter very well, but remember him as always being a gentle-man (or gentle-boy), soft spoken and always very tidy – unlike some of us who are more rowdy! I have fond memories of him. May God take good care of Peter’s soul. Regards, Mark
Biography
Felix Goebel-Komala, son of the late Joseph Padang Sastrono Komala and the late Kathleen Klin Pualam, passed away peacefully in his home from cancer and a stroke on November 2, 2016 at 8:58 pm in Findlay, Ohio. Felix was born May 11, 1961 in Hong Kong and attended La Salle Primary School and La Salle College in Hong Kong. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Iowa in 1983, and served in music ministry at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, St. Francis Catholic Church in Moorhead, Minnesota, and St. Philip the Apostle Church in Bakersfield, CA before coming to St. Michael the Archangel Parish in 1995 as Director of Liturgy and Music.
Felix was united in holy Matrimony to Mary Goebel-Komala, whom he met in 1986 in Moorhead, MN, and they were married on June 14, 1987. In December 2005, they adopted Felicity, their daughter from the Jianxin Orphanage in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China.
Felix was passionate about music – listening, playing, composing, performing and mentoring young musicians. Among the many compositions he created, including several hymns and Psalm settings, he is most known for his signature piece entitled “Psalm of Hope,” which is published by GIA Publications, and is sung during Masses in many Catholic parishes throughout the United States. Additionally, Felix was an active member of the Toledo Diocesan Liturgical Commission for many years, as well as the National Association of Pastoral Musicians, and the American Guild of Organists. His knowledge of both music and Catholic worship was appreciated by many, and his expertise was highly valued.
Felix also enjoyed regular visits with family members and friends in his native Hong Kong, and he displayed his affection for his native land and its culture by the clothing he wore and the food he enjoyed. Additionally, Felix was actively involved in the Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County, and was an avid tennis player.
Felix’s Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in St. Michael the Archangel Church, on Tuesday, November 8, 2016.
Felix is survived by his wife of 29 years, Mary, and their daughter Felicity, and sisters Sussy Komala, Wilma Komala and Merly Khouw.
Eulogy for Felix Goebel-Komala
Delivered by Sussy Komala, Sister of Felix on November 8, 2016
Let me begin with a story. The year was either 1984 or ’85, possibly even ’86. It was early morning on Good Friday, sometime between 2 and 4 am. I started awake, crying, from a dream that my brother Felix had died. Disturbed, I called him. He was also awake. How strange, he said, I’ve been feeling depressed recently, and then we spoke for an hour or so, during which time he talked about all that was on his mind, his music, dreams, religion, work. Life.
I share this intimate memory of Felix when he was a young man, long before he became a member of this community, at a time when he was still trying to shape the path of his life, before he met our sister-in-law Mary and became Felix Goebel-Komala.
My brother has always lived the examined life. He was never afraid to share his feelings and struggles and uncertainties, in conversations over long distance phone lines, or in person, while in transit, later on email, in the myriad ways our family connects and meets. My brother Felix instinctively knew the need to seek the truth, the way all artists must, which is not to be satisfied with the surface of things, but to dredge the heart in the darkest and most painful moments of our existence. Felix always had the courage to confront his fears, to give voice to his doubts. In time, he would give voice to that truth in his beautiful composition “Psalm of Hope” — my God, my God, why have you abandoned me. And in its existential crisis the song returns to the amazing grace that saved and set me free.
But I also tell you the story of this brief, private moment to speak to the importance of family for Felix. We who have always been a part of his life know the consolation of family for our darker times. When my father died unexpectedly and abruptly, it was Felix’s voice that comforted us. He sang “O Holy Night,” recalling the way Dad sang every Christmas. The power and purity of our brother’s voice was uplifting, inspiring, and allowed us to grieve into the sanctum of eternity.
Felix is the youngest of four siblings, the only boy among three sisters who teased, bullied, harassed him — “Wait first, wait a minute!” — he would exclaim in exasperation when we rushed him, pushing the limits as children will. He was our Felix the Cat, of course, the boy who made us laugh, who became the joyous, creative man, a loving and generous human being, the brother who was there at our side when family celebrates, laughs, explodes and cries.
When my mother’s behavior choked into a sputtering, inexplicable mode, it was our brother who had the courage to obtain that devastating diagnosis, Alzheimer’s. And it forced us to face the truth of what that meant, of how all our lives would have to change. It was easier to confront with Felix, because he knew Mum in a special way that allowed him to help her, which eased the path for the rest of us to do the right thing.
And here we are today, to honor his memory, and we see who our brother became, the legacy he leaves us as composer, singer, musician, tennis player, liturgist. A member of this community. In the days before today, we sifted through messages from relatives, friends and strangers who care about him. Right now, I am staring at a sea of mostly strangers, and I know Felix must be greatly loved and cherished for so many of you to be here today.
For us, his sisters, we are most grateful for the loving people Felix brought into our lives. When we met Mary Goebel, the woman he wanted to marry, we all instantly liked her, and in time, she became much more than a sister-in-law, because we named her our “fifth sib.” Together, Mary and Felix gave us the even greater gift of their daughter Felicity.
So let me leave you with this image of Felix and Felicity when she was just a little girl, in Hong Kong on board the MTR, the city’s subway that the three of us were riding together. Felix was carrying Felicity. Suddenly, she stuck her hands up in the air and grabbed the handlebars across the top of the carriage and swung herself forward across the car, legs dangling. My brother followed her as the passengers gazed, amazed, at this agile little monkey girl up in the air. Fearless, Felix said. Just fearless.
I’ve told my niece that her dad will always be with her. Felix Goebel-Komala is indeed The Man in our lives, and more importantly, he will forever be that man in all our hearts.
Sussy Komala
Sister of Felix
| Contributed by: | Mary Goebel-Komala 2019-04-04 03:15:57 |
| Description: | Thank you for the beautiful tribute to my husband, Felix Goebel-Komala, on your website. |
Biography
Message from Mark Huang (85) announcing Arthur’s death.
(Please click on the blank file with on the left to see the Obitary from South China Morning Post.)
It is with greatest sadness that I announce the passing away of Arthur Gomes (aka Gomez), on 24th April, 2007, at the age of 90. Arthur was a graduate of La Salle in 1933 when he finished Class 1.
Arthur was a Portuguese, born and raised in Hong Kong, and he studied in St Joseph’s Branch School in Tsim Sha Tsui (the fore-runner school of LSC, 1917-1931), in St Joseph’s College, and La Salle College. In 1938 he joined the HK Volunteer Defense Corps. On 8 December 1941, at the commencement of the Japanese attacks on Hong Kong, Arthur, being lance-corporal, was ordered to protect British families living in May Road, Central. He was therefore not involved in the fighting.
The title of the Arthur’s obituary in the SCMP of 25th April stated: “A Life Marked by Courage and Determination to Survive” The obituary remarked on his being taken as a prisoner on Christmas Day 1941 after HK surrendered.
“He reflected later that as a Portuguese, he could have taken off his uniform and melted into the general population, perhaps getting to Macau. He stayed for the honour of our regiment,’ he said. ‘We had to face what was coming to us. We thought we were going to be marched to Guangzhou but the road stopped at the ransacked and looted barracks at Sham Shui Po.’ ” Arthur was imprisoned there 3 years and 8 months.
I met Arthur on several occasions interviewing him for information on the old school, and also on getting information on the war dead of La Salle. He recalled with amazing clarity his days in St Joseph’s Branch School in TST, as well as his memories of the war, including of Roy Maxwell (3-), his cousin and fellow Lasallian, who perished in the battle against the Japanese on 23 December 1941.
Arthur was helping Elden Lai (82) and I review some material of war dead Lasallians, just weeks before his unexpected passing away.
When the opening of the new wings and the Thanksgiving Mass for the school’s 75th Anniversary was held in December 2006, Arthur was also present, standing straight and attentive, only requiring a walking stick.
Arthur was thrown a party for his 90th birthday recently, and I was told it was a lovely and very happy occasion for him and all who attended it.
Arthur, our Lasallian brother, has lived a remarkable life through HK’s peaceful times before the war, when Bro Aimar began offering schooling to boys like him in Kowloon; then Arthur endured war, and imprisonment in very hard conditions. After the Japanese surrendered, he continued to do what he believed in. He founded the HK Prisoners of War Association in 1954. He was also active in servicemen’s associations and he worked hard in the interests of the sevicemen’s families. Arthur worked till he was well into his 80s. Among many recognitions, he was awarded an MBE. He is a role model for each one of us.
Arthur is survived by his daughter Cynthy.
Please remember Senior Gomes in your prayers, and may God grant him eternal rest in heaven.
I will miss Arthur very sorely.
-end of quote-
Arthur Gomes is seen on page 8 of the June 2004 OBA Newsletter
Here are some remarks of the second photo by Mark Huang (85) on 14 May 2007:
The street scene is Tsim Sha Tsui in 1902 as seen from Signal Hill, looking north. Chatham Road is the main road on the right. In 1917, the Christian Brothers established St Joseph’s Branch School on Chatham Road, mainly for the Portuguese boys whose families migrated to Kowloon from Hong Kong Island early in the century. Arthur studied in that school for a few years (Classes 8-5), before moving to higher classes in St Joseph’s College (Classes 4 and 3), and then to La Salle College in 1932 when it opened (Class 2 and 1).
| Contributed by: | Elden Lai (82) 2007-05-02 19:32:09 |
| Description: | I was saddened to learn of the unexpected passing away of senior Arthur. I have not had the pleasure and honour of knowing senior Arthur in person, although I have known of this legendary old boy for a long time, and indeed I had seen him around on numerous occasions during church services at Rosary Church, TST. He impressed me as a very devoted Catholic. I was recently put in contact with senior Arthur through Mark Huang(85) in the course of conducting my research on the fallen Lasallians during the defence of Hong Kong, 1941. I last wrote to him a few weeks ago asking him to comment on some research materials I had compiled. Sadly, I will never get a reply from him. Senior Arthur’s passing is indeed a great loss not only to the Lasallian community, but to Hong Kong society at large. I offer my deepest condolenses to Arthur’s family. May his soul rest in peace. |
| Contributed by: | Bernard Kong (76) 2007-05-02 00:13:43 |
| Description: | Mr. Arthur Gomez remained closely connected to the school in the past few years. LSCOBA invited him as a guest of honor in the “Days under the Dome” in May 2004. He talked about his school life and it was a very successful event. His pictures appeared in some of the war history book e.g. Not the Slightest Chance – Albert Manson from Vancouver may have more to say about this. I found this in the internet for sharing: http://www.rhkr.org/history/memory/Battle_for_Hong_Kong.html ************************************************ A Volunteer in the Battle for Hong Kong December 1941 One of the vivid memories I have is that of leading a fighting patrol of 7 men from our pillbox in Pokfulam at the foot of Mount Davis. I had to report to the Adjutant – Capt Neville Thursby of the KSLI. The HQ at the time was on the Murray Parade Ground in Garden Road – what was to become the Hilton Hotel. On arrival at the HQ, I met the Adjutant. He was a man who commanded respect – he was short tempered and had a habit of rolling his eyes heavenwards as though seeking patience or inspiration – or both. He had a slight stutter and on this meeting, I stuttered as well in my nervousness. As we both stuttered, he laughed and broke the tension. He then told me that I was to lead a patrol up May Road to where the Volunteers’ and other families were billeted for safety in Tregunter Mansions. The ration party had reported that there were suspicious movements in the area and that lights had been seen – possibly 5th columnists signalling the Japanese in Kowloon. The Japanese had a small but powerful gun hidden in the Kowloon Godowns where Ocean Terminal is now. My task was to investigate and flush out any intruder from where the families were and make contact with the QM who was in charge of supplies to the families. To men who had not had a regular meal for some time, the thought of meeting a supplies officer was indeed heart warming! We headed up hill towards our destination – and our next meal. We proceeded towards Tregunter Mansions with utmost caution and minimal noise up the hillside in single file; some looking left some right and others straight ahead. In fact our heavy leather boots on the gravel and rocks made the patrol sound like a herd of wild elephants. No wonder we encountered no-one on our way. At any rate the disturbances – 5th Columnists or whatever – were cleared and our task complete. It was there that I met my wife and other families for the first time since 5th December and I was able to bring back news of them to the men in my pillbox. We stayed with the families overnight and the next day we were ordered back to report to Capt Chris D’Almada at our Company in Pokfulam. Epilogue. I subsequently read that there was a meeting on the night of the l2th December between the Triads and Insp Shaftain, Admiral Chan Chak and his Chief of Nationalist Police. As a result of the negotiations and in return for payment of a certain amount of money, the “Celebration of the l3th” was called off. This was to be a massacre of all foreigners by the 60,000 Triads in Hong Kong. This explained our sudden dispatch on the fighting patrol to the families but we too could have been wiped out that night if the negotiations had failed. Arthur E Gomez ************************************************ Thank you Arthur for defending Hong Kong and for your courage. We are all proud of you as a Lasallian. God bless your soul and rest in peace. Bernard |
| Contributed by: | Clarence Ng (1969) 2007-05-01 04:49:31 |
| Description: | Here, I would like to commemorate our senior Lasallian, a WWII veteran, Lance Corporal Arthur Gomes of the Alliance Forces, for his righteous choice to serve the British military, and to his endurance of the atrocity as a prisoner of war, and also to his contribution to the post-war veterans association in Hong Kong. |
Biography
Alumnus and former RTV General Manager, Mr Steve Huang passed away in March 2005.
| Contributed by: | Erwin Huang 2009-02-24 11:31:14 |
| Description: | Mr Huang has been a dedicated person to help define the media industry in the Chinese world. He was a pioneer in helping the startup of HK-TVB and then moved on to become the managing director of RTV (later called ATV) |
Biography
Joseph was a loyal 17er of La Salle College.
Location of grave:
Joseph’s grave is in St Michael’s Catholic Cemetery, Happy Valley.
The grave is located in the Section I of the cemetery. As one enters the cemetery from the gate close to the cemetery office, walk straight along the path parallel to the main road. Almost reaching the very end of the path and the last grave, look left and up one row, Joseph’s grave is the second or third one from the end of the second row. It’s not difficult to find. There is no grave number.
Biography
The Old Boys community is saddened to learn of the passing away of the school’s former soccer team captain, Ko Bo Keung on 17 June 2009. Ko was a soccer legend in Hong Kong, and had been captain of the South China and the Eastern soccer teams, capturing numerous honours. The following are some news reports of his unexpected death, at age of 79. The last paragraph in the Apple Daily report reads: “Ko, a very respected player in the professional HK soccer circle, graduated from La Salle College. Ko was also a top sprinter, and was recruited to South China’s A Team at the age of 17 [in 1947], becoming the youngest midfield player of the time. He was later also recruited into the HK team, and two years later he was made captain of South China.” Ko also subsequently became the captain of the HK team. May Ko’s soul rest in peace. And thank you to Senior Ko for leading La Salle to its glorious soccer achievements immediately after WWII. If any old boy has personal stories or memories of Ko, or found interesting stories of Ko from any media, please share them at the entry for Ko in the Lasallians Remembered section.
Readers can gain a glimpse of HK’s glorious soccer days in the 1940s and 1950s through this link, where Ko played his part faithfully. http://hksan.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=6967
Biography
The following was copied directly from the following website, written by Clemens’ parents: http://www.arts.cuhk.edu.hk/~twkwan/Clemens/obituary.htm (no longer valid)
Quote
Han-yi Clemens Kwan was born in Bochum, Germany (then West) in 1981. When he was seven months old he left Germany for Taiwan where his father assumed his first teaching position at the Tunghai University. Clemens spent a very happy childhood in the beautiful campus of Tunghai. He attended the kindergarten affiliated to the University, for one year. At the age of four, Clemens returned with his parents to Germany and spent half a year there at the Katholischer Kindergarten St. Augustinus of Bochum. After he moved back to Hong Kong, Clemens joined the Alliance Church Kindergarten for another year before he was admitted to La Salle Primary School. Besides being a diligent student, Clemens took part in a number of extra-curricular activities: He was in the school badminton team for three years; he was a member of the Community Youth Club (CYC); he represented his class in the school swimming gala; and he acted in the leading role in one of the school drama festivals. Clemens loved music. He played piano from the age of five with growing enthusiasm, and he was a member of the Hong Kong Children’s Choir for three years. After Clemens finished his primary education, he was admitted to La Salle College. Unfortunately he was diagnosed to be suffering from a brain tumour right before he could start Form 2. After one whole year of treatment and convalescence Clemens resumed school (Form 2) and worked and lived happily for one full term before his illness recurred and steadily took his life. For us, the last two years of Clemens’ life have been a time to be particularly remembered: Clemens had to grow up to face death without losing hope. And he did so bravely and beautifully even when the footsteps of fate were drawing near. Eventually, his body did give way, but his soul didn’t. Clemens’ life was brief, but full of ideals, sensitivity, grace and courage. He has been loved by so many people who have known him, and he will return them his love through the many beautiful memories we shared with him. As parents, Clemens’ affliction was of course the most heart-breaking story in our lives. The trauma we have lived through was beyond imagination. Yet, now in retrospect we realize that our experience in the last two years has not been all negative: Clemens’ illness has brought us closer to each other than ever. It gave us the chance to reflect more deeply on human relationship, on human finitude and religious yearning, on happiness and suffering, and on the different aspects of life and death. In the last two years, every day, every hour has been a torture and a treasure for us at once. We have learned to cherish moments of peace and happiness, although they were unavoidably tainted with a slice of tragic sentiment. The fleetingness of such moments of happiness induced in us an arduous longing for their eternity; and they do appear to us to be eternal, even till these days when our Clemens is gone. This was an experience that no book, no philosophy can teach us. Our friends have helped us in every possible manner. They have enriched us with true friendship, compassion and love. Their unfailing support has rekindled hope in us even in the darkest hours. We owe them too much! Being a La Salle boy, Clemens has always wanted to become a Catholic. This wish of him was finally fulfilled. Out of his own decision, he was baptized by Fr. Louis Ha three days before he left us. May he rest in peace in the way he himself has sought.
Biography
As posted by OBA President, Bernard Kong: Condolences Posted by: Bernard Kong (76) Date: March 30, 2007 03:49PM Just receive sad news that Edward Lau (73) passed away this morning. Edward Lau is Senior Vice President and General Manager, Hong Kong, Manulife (International) Limited (MIL), responsible for the overall development of Manulife’s business operations in Hong Kong and Macau, including insurance, provident funds, and mutual fund businesses. May his soul rest in peace and let us pray for his family. Bernard Kong LSCOBA
Biography
Our beloved Lasallian, George Lau (Class of 67), aged 74, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2023.
George loved our school and was an active Old Boy. He would attend all San Francisco Chapter events: lunch gatherings, golf outings, spring dinners, etc. He would gladly drive out from his home in the city to even faraway places to join his fellow classmates for a nice time. Not to mention he joined every LSCOBA global reunion in different cities throughout these years.
George was always cheerful and supportive. We could always expect a great smile and warm greeting from him every time we met. He would support every La Salle-related charity and merchandise whenever they were available from our chapter, and would proudly wear them out in all our events.
He brought us so much great memories, and will always live in our hearts.
Thank you, George!
May you rest in peace in God’s embrace.
Obituary
George K. Lau, (74), of San Francisco, California, passed away on August 12, 2023. He was born to Joseph Ching Lau and Anna Yan Lau on September 17, 1948 in Hong Kong. He worked for the City and County of San Francisco for over 27 years prior to retiring as an accounting manager with the Department of Public Health in June 2010. He served as President of the San Francisco Fire Commission in 2008, Vice President of the Fire Commission in 2011, and President of the Fire Commission in 2012. George organized grassroot efforts to mobilize and raise civic awareness within the Chinese community. His commitment to civic engagement was reflected in his participation in numerous local organizations. George is survived by his wife, Amy Lau, his two children, Stephen and Sandra, and three grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Anna Yan Lau, and his sisters, Lai Ming Ma, Angela Lee, Agatha Mak, and Agnes Lau. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Ching Lau.
Biography
Dear Lasallians, I am sorry to inform you that Lau Ka Hung, Francis (劉家雄) from Class of 1981 has passed away recently. Francis was a very loyal Old Boy of LSC and he will be surely remembered by many. Our prayers go to Francis and his family. For those who wish to get in touch with Francis’ brother, John, please call 23362985 or email to: secretary (at) lscoba.com. The following are the details of the Requiem Mass and funeral arrangements: 劉家雄 追思彌撒 : 九龍玫瑰堂 日期 : １１月２３日 (星期一) 時間 : 晚上７時正 守夜日期 : １２月２日 (星期三) 地點 : 紅磡世盛殯儀 (地下永寧堂) 出殯日期 : １２月３日 (星期四) 出殯時間 : 上午 10-11 時出殯 May our Father receive Francis’ soul and let him rest in peace. Willie Wong Hon. Secretary of LSCOBA 2009-2010