On Saturday, March 6, 2010, the multicultural city of Stockton played host to the largest Chinese celebration in the Central Valley, featuring a lively festival and a grand parade. Among the highlights of this event was the honoring of Dr. Henry Wong as the Citizen of the Year by the Chinese Cultural Society of Stockton (CCSS). Dr. Wong, a distinguished physician, was recognized not only for his exceptional contributions to healthcare but also for his extensive philanthropic endeavors that have significantly impacted the community.
Dr. Wong’s accolade was marked by his participation in the Chinese New Year Parade, where he rode in a black convertible provided by the local Mercedes-Benz dealership and decorated by the CCSS, accompanied by his family. One of his sons took the wheel as chauffeur, while Henry’s wife, Sylvia, joined him in the front seat. Their grandson added to the jubilant atmosphere by waving to onlookers from the back seat.
Following the parade, Henry volunteered his time at the Bob Hope Theater during the festival, further embodying his commitment to community engagement.
The decision to honor Dr. Wong as Citizen of the Year was deeply rooted in his remarkable life story and unwavering dedication to serving others. Born in Hoyping, Guandong, China, he immigrated to Canada at the age of 13, where he initially worked alongside his grandfather in a Montreal hand laundry. Despite facing challenges, including grueling winters and demanding physical labor, Henry’s resilience and determination propelled him towards academic excellence.
After pursuing studies in engineering physics and aerospace engineering, Dr. Wong felt a calling to the field of medicine. He earned his medical degree from McMaster University Medical School and went on to complete internships and residencies in radiation medicine at prestigious institutions in the United States.
In 1977, Henry relocated to Stockton, where he has since served as a dedicated Radiation Oncologist and currently holds the position of Medical Director at the Regional Cancer Center of St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in various medical committees and community organizations, demonstrating his commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting underserved populations.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Wong’s philanthropy has left a lasting impact on education and healthcare initiatives locally and internationally. He has generously supported scholarships for students, donated to medical research institutions, and contributed to the enhancement of healthcare facilities.
His journey from a “paper son” to a respected American citizen and philanthropist serves as an inspiration to us all. His compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others made him a recipient of the Citizen of the Year award.
Below is a writeup featured in the official guidebook for the 2010 Chinese New Year Celebration in Downtown Stockton that contains more information about Henry.
If the article above is too small for you to read, you can download and view it as a PDF (1.6 MB):
