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Biography
Born in Hong Kong on 2nd May 1908, Brother Charles Wilkinson taught Class 2.
Biography
Brother Joseph Wilkinson was born on 1st January 1914. He taught Class 5. Brother Joseph was killed in the siege of Hong Kong by the Japanese in 1941.
Biography
Dr. James Wong (58), a talented and renowned composer, lyricist and writer. “Jim Suk” passed away in Hong Kong on 24 November 2004. A Memorial Booklet about him could be downloaded at http://www.wongjim.com/images/James_book.pdf 黃 霑 曾 經 從 事 電 視 、 電 影 、 廣 告 、 音 樂 以 及 寫 作 工 作 , 所 以 他 絕 對 稱 得 上 是 一 位 多 媒 體 工 作 人 。 在 音 樂 的 成 就 上 更 獲 獎 無 數 , 其 中 以 一 九 九 一 年 的 成 績 最 為 輝 煌 , 當 年 他 連 獲 香 港 樂 壇 九 大 獎 項 : 金 針 獎 、 最 佳 唱 片 監 製 、 最 佳 作 曲 、 最 佳 歌 詞 、 金 曲 金 獎 等 多 個 大 獎 。 (蘋果日報 2004/11/24)
Contributed by: | Mark Huang (85) 2005-10-19 17:32:18 |
Description: | The obituary presented by Jack So (58?) for James Wong can be found here. http://web.hku.hk/~daaobeta/memoir08.html |
Contributed by: | Chan Yuk Cheung (1958) 2004-12-23 12:52:33 |
Description: | Dear Jum Sum, I missed you. My tears cannot but well up in my eyes while typing onto the computer. We spent eight long years together in La Salle and in each other’s home as we were both living at Tai Po Road. I remember you doing your Tai Chi at the veranda of your home sweating profusely. I can still remember the sweet smell of the home-made wine by your father who was forever soft and kind. Being poor in Chinese, I was there watching you and your two brothers challenging each other in filling in the words for the Chinese crossward puzzle during the primary school years. The noise you made while practising your drum at my home still hovers over my ears. The first concert I attended was the harmonica final competition when your Quartet presentation of Mozart’s Serenade in G took the first prize for La Salle. You gave me a few lessons on the harmonic before I left HK after graduating F5. These experiences brought a lot of musical joy and spirits to me and my four children. Through your teacher Leung Yat Chiu, I was able to start the harmonica bands at St Joseph’s College both in Hong Kong and Penang, Malaysia. I saw you trying hard to complete the first song your wrote for a Maryknoll girl in Form 4 and the numerous submissions to the Students’ Weekly News in the secondary school. Yes, you are gifted and know how to get on to the HK people by flowing with their current, bringing them joy via their interests and craze. People may be offened by your use of sex as a channel to get attention, but I think that is only the practice of the trade of PR. Even Chuang Tzu (350 BC) recommended us to act like cows or horses if that is what they want in order to get on to them. I do appreciate your creativity especially in your contribution in elevating the Cantonese lyric writing of the 60s’ and I still enjoy the Chinese you wrote for “It’s a small small world”. Why should you go away so soon? You have not done enough for our younger generation both in terms of writing songs for the kids as well as helping them to be creative like yourself! I am really angry with you! After my departure from the La Salle College community for 46 years, via the news of your death I came to meet our classmates of 1958. I was surprised to learn that our classmate HL Lee spoke to you at 12.56 at the minutes of your departure in his dream talking to you about helping the HK younger generation. Being a clinical psychologist, I was asked by the group of 12 Lasallians to interprete that dream! “James Wong is asking you to help to continue his work of helping the younger set.” “Why me?” Mr. Lee said. “Well, you were the contact between him and the class of 1958 and he promised you that he would see you in future a few years back. He is keeping his promise and that amongst those present, you are the best person in terms of availability of resources.” James Wong might have passed away, but his spirit of joy and creativity is still with us. To carry on his good work some concrete action should be taken, like a special fund for training the younger generation to be more creative. Those who wish to help may contact me [email protected] or the current (2004-05) OBA chairman Dr. Bernard Kong. |
Contributed by: | Benjamin Tat Bun Ng (’62) 2004-12-09 13:23:42 |
Description: | Although I didn’t know much about James as I had left HK in 1963, but every Hong Kongese I have recently run into not only knew him very well but revered him greatly. So it seems that he has touched many a Hong Kongese’s heart. May James rest in peace, and his family will he in my prayers. |
Contributed by: | Quintin Kwok (87) 2004-12-08 15:09:22 |
Description: | James was a great talent. His lyrics touched the hearts of everyone and will be remembered for generations to come. While people of Hong Kong and the world mourn his passing, let us all say a little prayer for his family and loved ones. |
Contributed by: | Charles Tsang (83) 2004-12-08 14:38:20 |
Description: | Like other old boys who graduated from the early 80’s, I grew up along with the songs written by Dr. Wong. I was crazy enough to compile (hand written) a song book which documented 340 Chinese songs back in 1985. Of course, it was filled with many many masterpieces written by Dr. Wong. His songs touched my heart. His language skill was so good that just a simple sentence could mean a lot to me. We will remember what you said James: “Friends should see each others for no specific reason”. Eventhough you were no longer around, you still lived deep inside our heart, as our role model. May you R.I.P. |
Contributed by: | Alexander Cheung (82) 2004-12-08 02:16:29 |
Description: | Never met Dr. Wong, but heard a whole lot about him through the years from my parents, especially my father, who was also a La Salle Boy. I was so looking forward to, perhaps, seeing him at the LSCOBA Christmas Ball with other elder Old Boys on December 3rd, but then got to know of his passing the very night I arrived in Hong Kong from Canada. Very fond memories of Dr. Wong indeed, somehow, even though I had never got to meet him in person. I have sung so many songs he wrote, but the most touching piece I have ever done in front of others has to be the Cantonese La Salle School Song. I felt his pressence when I sang the Chinese School Song he wrote for us at the Christmas Ball last Friday–my trip to Hong Kong was completed and fulfiled. Thanks, Dr. Wong, our See Hing for life; you have left us priceless legacy that cannot be compared. Until then, I remain, yours in La Salle! |
Contributed by: | Arvin Chan (87) 2004-12-07 10:57:45 |
Description: | As the “next generation” of James Wong, I would like to share my personal encounter with the great man when I was still a baby kid. Our family was living in Mei Foo, and one night I was having a high fever. So my parents rushed downstairs to call a taxi, but as it was already 2:00am they waited long without getting one. Then Mr. Wong and his wife (Wa Wa) drove by and noticed us. He immediately stopped his car and asked my parents if there was anything wrong with the kid, and that he could give us a ride to the hospital. It was 2:30am in the morning! As retold by my parents, he offered his assistance in a wholehearted manner, so warm and natural, sincere and humble. We remembered this every time we saw him in the media, in fact we’ll remember his kindness forever. So it was his lifelong motto, pouring love and caring to his friends and even strangers alike without asking for anything in return. Hope he can rest in peace in God’s love. |
Contributed by: | Yeung Hing Kui (62) 2004-12-02 2004-12-02 22:17:15 |
Description: | People see things as they are, and say why. He dreamed things that never were, and say why not. |
Contributed by: | F Tse (80s) 2004-12-02 11:56:24 |
Description: | Dear James, James Wong, or I shall say Dr. James Wong, modern Beethoven, crazy but not stupid, full of maddness but with super creative power, dare to speak up but always make sense, eager to love but understand not all love stories will have a good ending, have the guts to do all the shocking things but also have the courage to admit all the faults….. Just like the song you wrote, you was, are and will always be the “Bright Star” up in the heaven. Well, I don’t usually do something like this, that’s going to a msg board and write…… Thus, I’m 101% believe we all miss you very much, especially your artistic talent. In fact, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for your lifetime contribution to the Chinese Pop Song Culture. I’m pretty sure all your legendary lyrics + music will be with us as long as time exists. We will not forget you. F Tse (Old Boy) |
Contributed by: | Larry Lee (96) 2004-11-29 02:53:09 |
Description: | Jim Suk, Thanks for the many 金曲 you have written for us, the lay Hong Kong people. We are so proud of you. And we all thank you wholeheartedly for bringing us joy and relieving us from depressions through the tunes and lyrics. Your songs, your words, your humour and your belief in life will long live in our mind. May you rest in peace. With love, Larry Lee (96) |
Contributed by: | Ng Kai Yin (02) 2004-11-28 03:02:10 |
Description: | 為悼念師兄黃霑博士,小弟特意為師兄遺作<滄海一聲笑>譜上新詞。雖然小弟填詞功力尚淺,但一番心意,還請霑師兄笑訥。 調寄《滄海一聲笑》 《霑叔一聲笑》 霑叔一聲笑 聲聲震浪潮 才情橫溢天之驕 知音笑 首首豁達謠 詞魂長伴那香江飄 瀟灑笑 掀刮狂潮 填詞填盡了幾多春曉 香江笑 聲勢嘹 毋忘那萬般不朽朗笑 霑叔,主懷安息 |
Contributed by: | Henry Nip(88) 2004-11-27 01:14:44 |
Description: | 他的歌詞,是留給香港人最大的禮物;[獅子山下]一曲的歌詞在近幾年就已經勉勵了不少在逆境中掙扎的香港人,當然包括我自己在內。 [人生中有歡喜 難免亦常有淚r 我地大家在獅子山下相遇上 總算是歡笑多於唏噓 人生不免崎嶇 難以絕無掛慮 既是同舟在獅子山下且共濟 拋棄區分求共對 放開 彼此心中矛盾 理想一起去追 同舟人 誓相隨 無畏更無懼 同處海角天邊 攜手踏平崎嶇 我地大家用艱辛努力寫下那 不朽香江名句] 願他的靈魂在天主的懷內安息 |
Contributed by: | Raymond Chu (77) 2004-11-27 00:54:37 |
Description: | 黃霑學長與世長辭 同窗無不惋惜 欲譔文以悼之 唯書以洋文 感與學長格格不入 故執塵封之拙筆為學長輓: 文曲現世乃藉香江淪陷 大陸色變移根獅子山下 承循父軌負笈母校黌門 克己復禮而基石定 明德格物乃學有成 年且及冠 初躍在淵 進而無咎 三十既立 鋒芒畢露 翔於天焉 知命而後 大展鴻圖 窈窕淑女 執子之手 莫可久耶 不惑已界 亢極有悔 養性修德 博學鴻儒 有孚在道 花甲有三 蒙主寵召 非完其人 乃全其志 雖終而無悔 唯紅顏禍水 前車未鑒 有負糟糠 然不無憾也 然大情大性 合時熾 離時 昨天種種 未如詩者 不為道也 乎不世之材 凡藝壇北斗 莫有尼於世俗 方有壯憓豁達 比梵谷 放浪不羈 比魯迅 橫眉冷對 眾力於我何有哉 又有幾人能及矣 唯霑學長之豪情放任 既為世之所容 更為世之所慕 此母校所自持之總勝一籌也 我等同門 每藉抬頭向長空求指引 放眼高闊天際望 且見學長徐立於彩雲深處 天國階前 御煙持酒 笑望且有猶豫之聖徒彼得 “仍然能夠 講一聲 我係我” 霑學長玩世不恭之 狂、放、浪、蕩, 行事為人之 志、誠、勇、毅 實不折不扣之喇沙仔寫照 能言人之不諱言 能為人之不屑為 然其所言所為 皆我輩言而不敢鳴 為而不坦誠者是也 雖未敢妄言堪作同門楷模 然能面對世界一切 那怕又如何 忽亦我等皆慕之情操耶 人生朝露 鴻爪留痕 有誤人者 亦誤於人 是非得失 實皆空也 盡心全力 其生不枉 非慕其名 乃傷其類 雖仰其才 亦感其憾 莫其譽 妄誇其名 且憫其情 而恤其委 以撫其憾 以慰其靈 烏呼霑 今而後者 能感我性 可映我情 同輸一脈 復可求也 今祈天主 納兄之靈 天國樂土 再譜新章 爾曲天訟 如於地焉 |
Contributed by: | Paul Wong – 2002 2004-11-27 00:54:22 |
Description: | 為悼念黃霑先生: 英魂迅逝酷驚聞, 良才此世不枉生; 詞情達意傳各土, 高朋眾友苦相陳. 今朝故人雖隔世, 詩詞文賦傳後人. 嗚呼!命如星殞閃即滅, 天壽永不加明人; 哀哉!痛失賢士嘆長恨, 回憶去日又思君. 可憐先生終遠去, 聽 爾 一 笑 一 淚 行. |
Contributed by: | Robert Yuen Kar Ngai (71) 2004-11-26 13:30:54 |
Description: | Your courage and determination to face your last illness should be well remembered by all Hong Kong people in physical and/or psychosocial distress. May your kind soul rest in peace in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. |
Contributed by: | Vincent Pun – 1981 2004-11-26 11:27:23 |
Description: | Johan, Jim suk is an icon of HK & LSC. We’re all proud of him. He & his songs are parts of our collective memory, just like the Dome and the La Salle spirit and will never be casted away. May God bless you & your family. As you said, may his laughter be with us all. Vincent Pun |
Contributed by: | Francis Cheung 2004-11-26 05:18:14 |
Description: | 黃霑去世 一個絕對大情大性,豪邁奔放o既性情中人!多才多藝,才華橫溢不在話下.霑叔o個手靚詞(滄海一聲笑,上海灘),佢老人家早年o個D獨當一面o既廣告(人頭馬一開,好事自然來),同埋佢o個把獨一無二o既歌聲(滄海一聲笑,道道道)?!試問家我呢一輩邊度有呢D咁全面o既人才呀?! 可能係小弟個人品味問題,就算歌神唱得几好,我硬係覺得首”滄海一聲笑”霑叔係唱得最正,最能唱出o個首歌o既味道! “滄海一聲笑,滔滔兩岸潮,浮沉隨浪,只記今宵!” 願佢老人家安息,o係上面繼續笑傲江湖!!! |
Contributed by: | Kelvin Bao (03) 2004-11-26 01:11:05 |
Description: | You and your music will always live in the hearts of all. Thanks for all the wonderful lyrics, I’m sure they’ll be loved and remembered by generations to come. |
Contributed by: | Charles Li (74) 2004-11-26 01:08:28 |
Description: | Beside Mr. James Wong contribution to the entertainment business in Hong Kong, let’s not forget his influence in the advertising industry during the late 60’s and 70’s. His 3 most famous campaign are still considered to be the text book cases in the Chinese advertising history. ENO Mineral Salt Remy Martin Cognac (VS) Viceroy cigarette poster in the YMT ferry are all long lasting advertising slogans. We are proud to have an advertising giant like Mr. James Wong and may he rest in peace. My condulence to his family. |
Contributed by: | David Lam (1988) 2004-11-25 22:31:00 |
Description: | Jim Suk gave the Hong Kong people laughter, confidence and many precious memories through his lyrics and other works. He also shown us how to be a true La Sallian, and be proud of it. Rest in peace, Jim Suk. As Johan said we will remember you through your laughter, and your role model as a La Sallian. |
Contributed by: | Au Kin Heng Constantine (1987) 2004-11-25 21:22:38 |
Description: | I forgot this point in my previous message. Thanks for Chinese version of our school song: 豪 情 少 年 敢 為 敢 作 一 身 朝 氣 心 向 上 人 行 正 途 艱 危 不 怕 我 會 盡 心 全 力 幹 合 唱: 有 幸 做 好 喇 沙 書 院 友 重 遇 我 往 昔 同 窗 不 管 天 陰 天 晴 日 我 地 齊 聲 將 此 曲 唱 云 云 教 壇 書 堂 精 舍 各 有 當 世 好 印 象 唯 從 有 成 英 雄 榜 看 母 校 突 出 人 共 仰 抬 頭 向 長 空 求 指 引 放 眼 高 闊 天 際 望 昂 昂 志 朝 彩 雲 深 處 與 母 校 青 雲 共 上 同 門 友 誼 因 時 俱 進 當 天 歡 笑 不 變 樣 良 朋 滿 堂 欣 然 相 對 母 校 校 歌 來 合 唱 |
Contributed by: | Peter Lee (93) 2004-11-25 20:38:16 |
Description: | 師兄, 您人雖然離開我們, 但您的精神和信念將會一直陪著我們. |
Contributed by: | Harry Chu (1987) 2004-11-25 19:47:24 |
Description: | My condolences to Johan and your family. Please take good care of them as I am sure that’s what Mr. Wong wanted to see. Your father is a great man. I can’t tell you how sad I heard the news. For years, he has been an icon for us (me) in this communication and creative industry. His skills in writing, especially on the use of modern Chinese words, is what I have been aspiring for a long time. May he rest in peace in God. |
Contributed by: | K.F. Chan (1980) 2004-11-25 19:37:46 |
Description: | When I was a student in La Salle, one of our English teachers, Mr Robert Cheng, told us that Mr James Wong was of his years, when most students would opt for studying English that normally guaranteed a better career prospect. However, Mr James Wong opted for studying Chinese. Mr Robert Cheng told us that it was after years of hard work, the decision of Mr James Wong proved to be right, and his achievement had over-shadowed a lot of others who went in the “normal channel”. The way Mr James Wong excelled in his studies and his career is something Lasallians are proud of, and something Lasallians should learn. May God take good care of Mr James Wong’s soul, and his family, especially our alumni Mr Johan Wong. In Christ, K.F. Chan (1980) |
Contributed by: | Lorencio Shiu Mateo 1993 2004-11-25 19:32:49 |
Description: | I like you very much, you are my role model. May you rest in peace, and best wishes to your family! |
Contributed by: | Willie Wong (84) 2004-11-25 19:27:32 |
Description: | Out of all the Lasallians I have come across, the late Mr. James Wong excelled others by his knowledge in Chinese literature and his impromptu speeches were just unbeatable. We have indeed lost a great son of La Salle. My condolences go to Johan, Ursula and the family. May his soul rest in peace. – Willie – |
Contributed by: | Johan Wong 2004-11-25 18:45:29 |
Description: | I am really moved by all your kind words and tributes to my father. Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart. “There are famous schools in plenty, but La Salle is something more.” Long live the La Salle spirit. -johan |
Contributed by: | Andy Cheng 1967 2004-11-25 15:28:02 |
Description: | JIM! We are proud of you as a Lasallian!! May you rest in peace! 2004-11-25 |
Contributed by: | Vitus Leung (80) 2004-11-25 14:57:54 |
Description: | He was pround of being LS Old Boy and we are pround of having him as our “Si Hing”. Long live La Salle Spirit in him… God Bless to him.. |
Contributed by: | Chris Wong (67) 2004-11-25 14:28:59 |
Description: | Thank you for promoting our Cantonese heritage. Hope others will imitate your proud legacy. Cantonese is our cultural heritage, let it shine on earth. Thank you for bringing joy and laughter to the world. |
Contributed by: | Victor Leung (77) 2004-11-25 14:03:15 |
Description: | As Wong Jim’s put this in his own words: ? 鄛 塶 Wong Jim Thanks to such dedicated and loyal La Salle Old Boys, Wong Jim, we now have a chinese school song (that I never knew exist until now). La Salle has cultured many sucessful old boys in the past, but not many as loyal as Wong Jim. “C Hing”, despite your sad passing away, you’ll always be remembered by fellow Lasallian. The old boys will always remember you when we sing the chinese school song, a gift from you that we’ll forever treasure. You are my true hero! |
Contributed by: | Michael Ho 2004-11-25 13:11:37 |
Description: | Mr. Jim Wong was an incredibly talented individual, not only in showbiz but as a human being in our society. We will all miss you. My deepest condolences go to Wong’s family. God Bless. |
Contributed by: | Kenneth Young (88) 2004-11-25 12:31:39 |
Description: | I love the way he made sex a laughing topic. I love the way he didn’t conceal his lust. He is a sex symbol in a certain way. He got guts. |
Contributed by: | Thomas Wong (01) 2004-11-25 10:21:25 |
Description: | May I also offer my condolences to Mr Wong’s family, friends and all of us LaSallians, all of whom must have been depressed by his unexpected passing away. May he rest in peace in the Kingdom of God. |
Contributed by: | Raymond Tang (81) 2004-11-25 09:38:41 |
Description: | 「…無論我有百般對,或者千般錯,全心去承受結果。面對世界一切,那怕會如何?全心保存真的我…」Such a correct attitute towards life! James Wong makes all of us proud to be LaSallites. May your soul rest in peace in God. God Bless you & your family & La Salle. |
Contributed by: | Clement Chan (87) 2004-11-25 09:32:03 |
Description: | James Wong was the first LSC Old Boy I knew when I was a primary school kid.Even before Bruce Lee,he was La Salle to me. “To women,you have to give money or passion.You can’t be reluctant on both.” That’s what he said in a crappy movie in early 1990s.I am not sure whether it was written by him and I strongly believe this philosophy. So long,your La Salle and Hong Kong will always miss you. |
Contributed by: | Bill Wong (66) 2004-11-25 07:35:03 |
Description: | Many La Sallians might not have met James personally, however, his artistic talent, innovative thinking and down-to-earth personality were encroached in the hearts of every La Sallian. His contribution and dedication to the La Salle community and the Hong Kong entertainment industry will forever be remembered and appreciated. My deepest condolences to James’ family and friends. May his soul rest in peace. |
Contributed by: | Paul Wong (1976) 2004-11-25 02:46:04 |
Description: | Wong Jim is always my idol because of his talent and contribution to culture, even before I realize that he is my “Si Hing”. I feel even closer to him and proud to be with him in this Lasallian family. As Johan (his elder son) said, I will always remember his smile (or laugh). May his soul rest in peace and may God bless his family. |
Contributed by: | Louis Law (1970) 2004-11-25 00:52:33 |
Description: | A Man For All Seasons A Renaissance Man A Maverick… What would be the best way to underscore such a colourful life enjoyed by our late Wong Jim? It is also interesting to note that Wong Jim received his education in Hong Kong and yet excel in writing Chinese lyrics for so many famed songs. I would be interested to learn what had happened to him at his school days while at La Salle. I leave that to the 50’s “Si Hing” to tell us more. To my knowledge, his close association with Leung Yat Chiu, the late harmonica maestro who assisted the school harmonica band at that time, helped shape his passion with music and the show business. Most important of all, his relentless drive to do the best is a hallmark that we should all emulate. That’s really something more for us Lasallian to be proud of! |
Contributed by: | Anthony Tung 1997 2004-11-25 00:47:40 |
Description: | I had a chance to go to the same class with him when he was studying master in HKU. We were attending the class of Hong Kong Popular Culture. You would never forget his voice and his way to laugh. May his soul rest in peace. |
Contributed by: | Au Kin Heng Constantine (1987) 2004-11-25 00:46:07 |
Description: | The Hong Kong citizens will always remember you. Lasallians will always be grateful to your contributions to LSC and LSCOBA. May you rest in peace. May God bless your family. |
Contributed by: | Cecil Kwong (97) 2004-11-25 00:28:11 |
Description: | We are really thankful for his numerous contributions, especially the Chinese lyrics of the school song. |
Contributed by: | Mark Huang (85) 2004-11-25 00:24:55 |
Description: | A Lasallian that lived life with passion, love, laughter, and energy, and who used all the talents and gifts that were granted to him to their fullness, and who shared them generously. And in the process of just being himself, he shared his talent to create beautiful lyrics and compositions to share with others. May God take good care of his soul, and his family and all those he loved, especially to our classmate Johan Wong (85). I wish I could live with the same passion as Uncle James. |
Contributed by: | James Yeung (94) 2004-11-25 00:13:51 |
Description: | The word “Genius” was invented to describe talents like the late Mr. James Wong. His multi-talents are recognised all over the Chinese community and his works and words will leave a lasting impression in the history of La Salle, Hong Kong and the Chinese community all over the world. I am sorry that I have not had the opportunity to get to know the great man, but he was, is and will ever be my idol. 24 Nov 2004 – the day when the planet loses a Genius. May the Genius’s soul rest in peace. |
Contributed by: | Toms 2004-11-25 00:06:16 |
Description: | May his assertiveness in life be our model and always be remembered and appraised. |
Biography
Message from Alexander Cheung, President of LSCOBA – Toronto Chapter on 15 August 2004. I am deeply saddened to inform you that one of our fellow Old Boys, Jimmy Wong (84), passed away last Thursday. I got to know Jimmy just two years ago when our Chapter was trying to revive our soccer team. I still remember vividly how Jimmy scored one of the two goals when we played against Wah Yan Kowloon almost two years ago making us winners that day. We certainly will miss his pressence from now on. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Eily, and three very young children ages from 1 1/2 to 5. Here are the details of the funeral service: Visitation: Friday (Aug 20) 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Elgin Mills Cemetery Chapel (Elgin Mills & Leslie) Funeral service: Saturday (Aug 21) 9:30 am – 11:30 am St Agnes K Y Tsao Catholic Church (16th Ave & Rodick, East of Woodbine). May God comfort Jimmy’s family in this midst of difficult time. Alexander
Biography
Mr Wong is the younger brother of Old Boy James Wong (57) (Wong “Jim”). ~June 2004
Biography
According to Clement Chan (87): “On April 8, 1997, F.3 student Wong Chun Wing died with his grandmother in a fire accident at Mei Foo Sun Chuen, Kowloon. He was 15. He was also Dr. James Wong’s nephew.”
Biography
The following was shared by Mark Huang on 1 May 2002
Dear Lasallians
It is with sadness that the we learnt of the passing away of a former teacher of the College, Mr. Wong Mo Poon (黃務本). Mr. Wong left us on April 27, 2002 at the age of 86. Mr. Wong was a teacher at La Salle College between 1952 and 1963, thus spending time in the College primarily in our Perth Street compound. He mainly taught science to the lower forms. Just to help you recall and with no disrespect intended, his nickname during his days in La Salle was “大眼妹”. Visitation to the Funeral Home has been scheduled for April 30, 2002 (Tuesday) from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home Ltd, 6150 Yonge Street, Willowdale – near Yonge & Steeles. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 1, 2002 (Wed) at same place. Hong Kong La Salle Old Boys Association – Toronto will present a flower arrangement. KB Ng, the President, and other Directors of the Toronto Chapter will attend the visitation at 7:00 p.m. on April 30, 2002 (Tue). Let’s all pray for Mr Wong’s soul, and put our trust in God that he will be resting in peace. We also send our condolences to Mr Wong’s family. May they find comfort in God’s promises.
Biography
Here is an update from Mr Woo himself to an old boy in June 2004: I have been doing part-time teaching at a certain institute, teaching English to a class of post-secondary students. But I have not decided yet if I will continue to do such a ‘monkey’ business in the forthcoming September. Will let you know soon. In addition to my regular part-time teaching, I also gave (and am still giving) private tuitions in Englsih to students from Form 2 to Form 5.
Contributed by: | David Ling Jr (1973)- [email protected] 2007-01-02 14:57:47 |
Description: | Woo Sir is the only teacher I can remember, with smiles in my head. His classes were always (__________)*fill in anything exceptional! That’s how great his impression was on my developing teenage brain at that time. Thank you Woo Sir. btw, if David Hsu or Harry or anyone from 5A (73) reads this, please keep in touch. Thanks Peter Choy for “turning me on” to this site. |
Contributed by: | Mark Huang (85) 2006-07-29 23:17:26 |
Description: | Dear H.R. Hiranand, Thank you for your sharing above on 15 June 2006. Since we are gathering heritage items relating to La Salle and Lasallians (staff included), the Heritage Subcommittee would very much like to obtain a copy or the original Kent Ad from 1973, and to place that in the Heritage Center of LSC. Can you please contact me on markhuang1985@ lscoba.com. Thank you. |
Contributed by: | H.R. Hiranand; Class of ’73 2006-06-15 22:14:50 |
Description: | “Hoi Polloi” : that was the 1st word I learned from Mr. Woo – thankfully there were more, but only because he was a great teacher. Believe me I had many very good teachers, but they were mostly useless as they were unable to capture my attention or interest. Regretfully, our class may have been the one to have corrupted him – or liberated him. I do have a copy of the ‘Kent’ ad from 1973, if anybody’s interested. |
Contributed by: | Tommy Chan (77) 2005-12-19 19:36:13 |
Description: | Believe it or not,Woo Sir once told our class that he was led astray by his students La Salle boys when he was a young teacher in LSC. : ) I think Woo Sir must be kidding at that time. Woo Sir is always so cool and smart in our eyes! THANKS !!! |
Contributed by: | Gildas Fung(91) 2005-11-16 01:54:25 |
Description: | “You pay shcool fee, you learn nothing.”, “Do you need me to give you a wake up call next morning?” are the 2 most common sentences I’d heard when Mr.Woo was my Form Master when i was in 4B and 5A. Luckily I was one of the “lucky ones” in the class to enjoy listening to all his sacarsms towards other “not so lucky” classmates. Having disappointed Mr. Woo during my HKCEE, I would like to take this opportunity to apologize for my stupidity of being lazy, I would also like to thank Mr. Woo for everything he taught me during those 2 memorable years (including of course, the famous German Phrase – Schadenfreud,which I think many a classmates in 5A of the year 91 remember well!) Mr. Woo, once again thank you so much for everything you taught me. (I hope my english,if not improved, has at least not deteriorated)! I really cherrished those 2 years a lot. Thanks. |
Contributed by: | Edward Yan 2005-09-30 14:13:49 |
Description: | Mr. Woo is always energetic and his teaching was inspirational. Wonder why nobody mentioned anything about the “Kent” commercial, yet? Anyway, the fact is we all loved it but dared not to bring up that subject in class …. 🙂 |
Contributed by: | Douglas Chan (1977) 2004-11-27 17:17:32 |
Description: | Mr.Woo’s enthusiasm in teaching history & english inspired us all ( F5A ). He has his way of making a boring subject into an interesting one and in turn we learn or in other words we absorbe his teachings. Recently I argued with my son’s classmate about the Iraq War and I can still use the knowledge that I have learned to teach that kid the correct way! His parents seem to be too right wing conservative ( as say in the USA.) Thanks for all the stuff that you have done and if I visit Hong Kong, I will definitely give you a call to rekindle good old happy days. |
Contributed by: | Peter Choy(73) 2004-07-03 03:49:38 |
Description: | “Why was the Crimean War inevitable?” This question was asked by Woo Sir in October 1971 History test for F4A. Some of the famous saying by Woo Sir: “If I have offended you, I beg your forgiveness” “I am what I am because of my Douglas Gland” “Pardon me, I am hard of hearing” Sir, you are so cool thank you for everything! Peter….. |
Contributed by: | David Hsu (1973) 2004-07-01 18:25:44 |
Description: | He was our form master for F5A in 72-73 which was the most notorious then and Mr Woo bravely and confidently assumed. He taught us English and Western History. He is remarkable for his analytical way in teaching History whom he sets out the background reasons, the cause and action, and of course the consequences. By analysing matters prevailed over memorising historical events which was great. I recall the entire class passed the English History with a couple distinctions and nearly 50% achieving credits. He is also remarkable in his unique way of teaching English. He would read aloud the English Composition of each student with name withheld and announce the grammatical errors, wrong use of the english metaphor or vocabulary. To the class is a general learning whilst to that particular student whom only the student knows of his particular mistakes would definetely learn his errors. |
Biography
Lifelong Career of an Educator from Shanghai to Paris and Hong Kong
Written by Thomas Yip (67)
Dr Wou’s Professional Postings in Education:
French Teacher, La Salle College, Hong Kong from 1958- 1975 and concurrently Lecturer at the Hong Kong Baptist College from 1969-1975
Senior Lecturer at the Hong Kong Shue Yan College from 1975-1977
First principal of Yu Chun Keung Memorial School (余振強紀念中學) 1975-1996
Date of Interview: 22 June 2005
Interviewer: Thomas Yip (67)
In this article Dr Wou, now retired, reminisced over his happy moments teaching the small but colorful “French Class”, which was a microcosm of the international community at La Salle. Sadly, this community has diminished in size and diversity over the years, but its importance in rendering an international perspective over the years cannot be overlooked. Much of our heritage, as well as that of Hong Kong, owes much to the confluence of racial and cultural interactions.
Dr. Wou also offered his insightful pedagogy, which formed the backbone of his successful career. His lifelong pursuit of excellence and truth culminates in a unique set of concepts and beliefs that may well be the blueprint for future generations of educators.
1. My background
I was born in Shanghai in 1930, a time when China was in extreme turmoil. I lived in the French Concession and there I witnessed the cycles of regime changes; from the rule of the French in cohorts with their Vietnamese underlings, to the occupation by the Japanese, the return of the Kuomintang and finally the establishment of the Communist Government.
I finished my senior high school grade 1 (高中一, or the equivalent of Form 4) in 1946. My intention was to join the air force, but was stymied by my stature and age. This instigated me to train in boxing and bodybuilding. These two disciplines improved my health and fostered my self-confidence.
In 1947, I entered Aurora University in Shanghai (震旦大學). Not having completed my senior years of high school, my knowledge of subjects like mathematics and science was poor. My major was Chinese language and literature, with a first minor in French and a second in English. In my final year at Aurora in 1951, my grades were excellent: 98% in French and 87% in English.
2. First coming to Hong Kong in 1951
With the help of a Chinese Jesuit who had been my teacher at the Collège Saint Ignace, I was admitted into Sorbonne (Paris University) to read for my doctorate. The French Consulate General in Shanghai no longer issued visas to foreigners. I had to be smuggled to Hong Kong by way of Macao on board the ferry “Fat Shan” (佛山輪), to enable me to obtain a visa for France. I arrived in Hong Kong with only HK$2 in my pocket. Fortuitously, I had in my possession a few bespoke suits made by Shanghainese tailors and I pawned them to the thugs for HK$300. This seeded my “snake money.” A further HK$1,500 was lent to me by the relative of a former classmate. Thus, I was able to acquire a forth class ticket on a French liner bound for France.
3. Arriving France
When I arrived at Marseille, I had only US$20 left and that was to be my five loafs and two fish. With no other financial resources available, I had to rely on part-time menial jobs to sustain myself for the ensuing six years and three months. From the second year onwards, a modest French government bursary augmented my income.
This impecunious predicament was just the beginning of my ordeal. To my chagrin, I realized that I could not converse in French. This handicap was equally applicable to my English skills, which I discovered on a later visit to England. My immediate remedy was to attend the cinema, one whole day at a time, watching the same film over and over. I was able to understand perhaps 30% of the dialogue the first time round, 60% the second and 80% by the end of the day.
Linguistics aside, real world knowledge was another problem. I was always impressed by my French friends with their vast knowledge over a wide range of subjects. For example, a student in the French language would argue eloquently on social science subjects like politics.
I ascribed my inaptitude to the woefully inadequate curriculum and poor teaching I received at Aurora in Shanghai. But ordeals could often bring out the best in a man, and I strived to overcome my shortcomings. This attribute served me good stead during my student days in France and also in the later years when I taught at La Salle. My main doctoral thesis at Sorbonne was based on the life and works of a Qing dynasty Chinese scholar (楊州八怪之一, 鄭板橋). There were two supplementary dissertations: the romanisation of the Chinese language and a comparative study of Western abstract art and Chinese calligraphy. I worked arduously and received my degree with honors in 1957.
I was offered a teaching post at a tertiary institution in Taiwan. By then I was already married and had a young daughter. We were travelling to Taiwan on an Italian liner when my family fell ill. We were off loaded in Hong Kong where we became stranded.
4. Second time in Hong Kong
I learned through the grapevines that an English school (La Salle College) was seeking to replace a recently deceased teacher for the French language. He was Brother Cassian Brigant who had been knocked down by a bicycle, and died shortly after. Brother Felix Sheehan was at the helm and he was a desperate principal. His first remark to me at the interview was: “You’re sent from Heaven.” It’s 1958 at the Perth Street campus, and that was to be the cusp of my teaching career at La Salle.
5. Teaching at La Salle
Preparing the teaching material for my first year (1958) was extremely hard going, as there were no standard teaching materials. Class sizes ranged from 15 – 25 in Forms 1 to 5, and 2-10 in Form 6. Students were mostly of Portuguese, Indian, American and Eurasian descent. There was also a sprinkle of Chinese. Most had a better command of English than I but their ability in French was very varied. Except for a few from Vietnam, most Form 1 students had no prior exposure to the language and thus their course began with phonetics, whereas those in Form 6 were taught more advanced use of the language as well as literature. My first batch of Form 6 students included Marciano Baptista (who joined the Jesuit order to become a Priest, and who later headed Wah Yan College, Hong Kong) and Basil Lim (who later became a senior police officer). Throughout the years, results were maintained at very high standards – passing rate in public examinations had been 100%; credits and distinctions were not uncommon.
I had had no formal training as a teacher. I derived my teaching method from personal experience. It is my conviction that good teachers have innate qualities that cannot be effectively taught. A good teacher must exude authority that is constantly felt by the students. This is achieved by maintaining persistent eye contact, failing which would invite students to daydream or read out-of-class materials. As a student, I was guilty of both transgressions and thus I painstakingly ensured that none of my students lapsed into inattentiveness.
Discipline in the classroom. Label me a benevolent despot if you wish. I consider the demands I made of my students as fair and reasonable, though I insisted that these must be followed to the letter. For example, failure to hand up assignments automatically elicited punishment. However, errant students were allowed to choose their own poison, which included: writing lines, meeting with the parents or a mild form of corporal punishment involving a smack on the palm. Most students opted for the last mode, humorously dubbing it as “Lucky Strike”. Even now, when I meet up with old students, we enjoy a good laugh over these episodes.
I subscribed to the Chinese saying “四両撥千斤’’ (“Leveraging” in modern parlance) whereas I shunned “一分耕耘一分收獲’’ (“An ounce of your harvest is a result of an ounce of what you sow”). I put the former axiom into practice by motivating students to quest for knowledge. My role was to provide the guidance. I insisted on students preparing ahead for their classes. I would only teach them when they encountered problems that they could not resolve by themselves. I readily admitted to not knowing an answer whenever such situations arose. Thereafter, I would seek the proper solution for them. I strongly believed that spoon-feeding was self-defeating and would only fail to educate.
In 1965, Brother Casimir Husarik was installed as the principal. I was required to take over the Form 7 French class, which he had hitherto taught. It was a race against time, as there were only less than eight months remaining to the A-Level Examinations. My conclusion was that the best strategy forward was to first instil the necessary confidence students must have in themselves as well as in me. I reminded them that I was a good teacher and that invariably they will do well under my tutorage – 名師出高徒” (“A Famous Teacher Breeds Good Students”). “Secondly, in the event that they achieved a distinction in the examination, they would most certainly gain entrance to university. This in turn should be seen as a key to future success in life. Thereafter, I devoted my time to teaching them studying methods and left them to do the actual studying themselves. Of the four students who sat for the examination, two received distinctions and the other two good passes. Brother Casimir was astounded and enquired how I was able to produce such results in such short span of time, whereas it had always eluded him.
6. My success Formula?
To my mind, a teacher is charged with two indisputable duties: to impart knowledge and to help students pass examinations. Both aims are not necessarily congruent. The act of acquiring knowledge is a lifetime preoccupation; whereas sitting for an examination only spans a fleeting moment. In preparing students for examinations, I pointed out the important parts of the curriculum that they must be conversant with. I constantly made them aware that they alone were the authors of their success. When it came to teaching literature in the higher forms, I helped them develop a framework that essentially enabled them to systematically analyze their own work. I discouraged learning by rote. In my later years, I advised younger teachers against spoon-feeding and promoted the viewpoint that students should be made to teach themselves.
Christian education exhorts that one should “love and care” for one’s students. I espoused this virtue whole-heartedly, as I have both received and given in such spirit. I benefited from the advice given by a former teacher in Shanghai, a Communist party member who was a very famous writer. In view of my undesirable family background (my father was a factory owner and thus deemed as a capitalist) he urged me to go overseas. This would not have been possible had it not been for the magnanimous assistance bestowed by the said Chinese Jesuit teacher. Although he was inapt at teaching, he had a great heart. I always strived to repay such kindness by helping students in need.
7. Dividends at La Salle
I also learnt much from the Christian Brothers. It was evident that students showed more respect to them than to lay teachers. The reason lay deeper than the fact that they wore habits. It was a natural response to the love and cares the Brothers genuinely felt for the students as well as their devotion to the vocation. Lay teachers often lacked such total dedication as among other things; they had their own families to cater to. The difference was further magnified as some teachers merely viewed teaching as a job.
Both Brothers Felix and Raphael were well versed in the art of job delegation. They were excellent administrators as well as leaders. Brother Felix was upright, stern and strict. He would patrol his beat three times daily. Brother Raphael was a wise man, and he was concerned with only the macro issues. So long as you were popular with the students and got good results, he would allow you a free hand. He did not have to leave his office to realize what was happening in the school. I emulated these qualities when I became principal of YCKMC in the 1980’s.
I derived much job satisfaction teaching French at La Salle, though towards the end of my tenure, I was offered a number of other challenges. Brother Raphael invited me to lead the debate team, comprising Victor Tung, Peter Barnes, Michael MarÇal and Ricky Rozario. We were placed first in the inter-school competition. Brother Raphael was very pleased by the result and treated us to dinner at a Shatin restaurant. He presented me with a new challenge. He wished to test if I could employ my method of continuity, teaching a language that I was not totally proficient at – I was to teach English for a class throughout for five years. After two years this experiment came to an abrupt end, as in 1975 I left La Salle for YCKMC where I was headmaster for the following 21 years.
My assessment of La Salle students is that they were relatively outspoken and more rebellious. French class students were privileged by the size, which allowed more interactions with the teacher. Some of the students were rowdy, but nevertheless they were all a joy to teach. The cream of the crop was of course outstanding, but even the seemingly less brilliant ones possessed potentials; all they required was more coaxing. After a long career in education, I am thoroughly convinced that each and every student if taught by the proper method will become an upright and useful citizen.
In the 80’s, I ran into a student whom I had taught in the 60’s, near the Peninsula Hotel. He is now a very prominent member of the legal profession. Upon seeing me, he said: “Bonjour Monsieur! You’re one of the few teachers I can still remember and respect. May I have the honor to give these to you?” Thereupon, he proffered the half a dozen cakes he was carrying. The cakes added a few pounds to my weight, but more importantly, it was most gratifying to know that all my toil was not in vain. It was a crowning moment in a glorious chapter in my career.
8. At Yu Chung Keung Memorial College
I tried hard to replicate the same teaching method and philosophy employed at LSC. The teachers were provided with a set of aims and objectives, but were otherwise given a free hand to teach as they thought fit. Advice was available but only when it was sought. Students were encouraged to debate and required to address the school on stage. Community service was mandatory. At first some parents resisted this liberal approach. Also, it was difficult to convince hidebound members of the teaching staff. The fact that some students came from more traditional families did not help matters. The result fell short of that at La Salle. Nevertheless, I enjoyed my years as Headmaster.