It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Jennifer Tong after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Jennifer was born in Nanaimo and grew up in Vancouver. Inspired by her hard-working parents, she strove to excel academically and received her B.Ed., M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia. Her research focused on Special Education policy, and on how to identify and address specific needs for students with behaviour disorders and mental illnesses. Other areas of interest included inclusive education, early intervention, life skills, and transition planning.
Jennifer was involved in Special Education for over 30 years. As the Director of Learning Support for the Catholic Independent Schools of the Vancouver Archdiocese (CISVA), she was instrumental in developing and implementing a variety of innovative programs and support services for kids of all ages and abilities. She participated in and chaired many committees and professional organizations including, but not limited to, the BC Council of Administrators for Special Education (BC CASE), the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), the University of British Columbia’s Department of Education, and the BC Ministry of Education. Jennifer was relentless in her determination to see that all children received the tools and opportunities they needed to succeed.
Outside of her work passions, Jennifer was infinitely dedicated to her family. She married her husband, Ken, in 1986. They built a happy life together and had two children. Surrounded by a wonderful community of friends, they travelled and lived life to the fullest. Jennifer was a loyal, selfless, and thoughtful friend who effortlessly filled the lives of those around her with love and kindness. Despite facing many challenges, Jennifer remained a steadfast, strong, and calm presence. She never complained. She focused on life’s positives, led by example, and brought out the best in us all.
Jennifer is survived by her mother Helen Hiroko Ono, husband Ken, children Maya (David) and Curtis, and sister Joanne (Dan). She is predeceased by her father Arthur Ono. We will miss her sharp guidance, her endless kindness, and her honest friendship. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. In memory of Jennifer, we hope you will respect and be kind to others, be a strong advocate to people of all abilities, and be an unwavering friend to those close to you.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated by The Most Reverend J. Michael Miller and Rev. Bruce-John Hamilton at Corpus Christi Parish (6350 Nanaimo Street, Vancouver) on Friday, September 9, 2022 at 10:30 am.
For those that wish to join us virtually, please visit www.legacystreaming.com/Kearney.
Please share a memory or offer condolences below.
Flowers are gratefully declined – donations can be made in Dr. Tong’s name to the BC Council for Exceptional Children (www.bccec.org/), Inspire Health (inspirehealth.ca/donate/), or another charity of your choice.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Dr Jennifer A Tong November 14 1960 – August 24 2022..
Décès pour la Ville: Vancouver, Province: Colombie britanique