Bernarda “Bernie" Wong nee Lo, 77, co-founder and retired CEO and president of the
Chinese American Service League in Chicago passed away Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at
home after a two-year battle with cancer. She was born October 24, 1943 in Hong
Kong. Bernie was the beloved wife of the late Albert Wong, loving mother of Jacinta
and caring grandmother of Tiana and Matthew.
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She was the youngest child of 7 siblings of the late Jorge Lo and Virginia Chia de Lo.
She is mourned by her surviving sisters-in-law Rosaline Young and Sue Wong (Peter
Wu) , sisters-in law Margaret and Agnes Lo, brothers Albert (Selina), William (Violet),
and Thomas (Esme) Lo, as well as 17 nieces and nephews, and 17 grand nieces and
grand nephews. Bernie was preceded in death by her siblings George, Charles and
Fillis and brother-in-laws Bill Joe and Henry Young.
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Bernie came to the United States to study at Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa.
After getting her Masters degree in Social Work at Washington University, she
followed her mother’s inspiration and began a career dedicated to helping others.
She became a powerhouse champion for Chinatown, immigrants, the elderly and the
needy, while remained dedicated to her family and friends. Her dedication and
services resulted in numerous rewards given by the government, foundations and
corporations (including one given by President Obama.)
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The new book When Friends Come From Afar, recently released by author Susan Blumberg-Kason, chronicles the founding of the Chinese American Service League. What began as a grassroots effort by a small group of determined community leaders, including Bernie Wong, to support newly arrived immigrant families seeking opportunity and stability in a new country grew into one of the most impactful social service agencies in the Midwest. The book reflects Bernie Wong’s lifelong commitment to service, advocacy, and strengthening the community she helped build.