Harry K Tang (given name Kong Hung) was born on July 23, 1919 in Chendu, China. He graduated with a BS digree from Ginling University in Chendu. In 1943 his scholarship in the sciences nad proficiency in English won him a recommendation by the Chinese government to serve in several chemical engineering apprenticeships in the US, however after a short time, Harry decided to make the United States his permanent home.
He attended the University of Denver where he received a degree in chemical engineering and continued his education at the University of Washington in Seattle earning a Ph.D. in chemical engineering. Later he completed studies for an additional degree in electrical engineering. While in Seattle he worked for Seattle Gas Company and the Boeing Company. In 1966 he and his family moved to Florida where he worked for Martin Marietta and NASA, retiring from the latter in 1983. It was his friendly, loving and generous spirit that was most often mentioned with friends talked about Harry. Along with an avid interest in tennis, in retirement he was well known around New Smyrna Beach for heading up Tang’s Gang, a group of dedicated golfers at the New Smyrna Beach Golf Club. This camaraderie continued long after the game was over with each coming to each others aid when various health problems developed.
Another of Harry’s passions was volunteerism. He served as President of the republican Club in New Smyrna Beach and was involved in the Family Promise Foundation serving as a representative in El Salvador during the 1980’s.
He is survived by his wife Lily Tang who he met in 1945 on a ship coming to the United States, son and daughter in law Chaucer and Mary Pat Tang of Pennsylvania, daughter Myra Tang of New Jersey, sisters Hermina Soo and Joan Dan, grandchildren Maureen, Cecilia, Philip, Nora and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations are requested to National Kidney Foundation or Hospice of Volusia 3800 Woodbriar Trail Port Orange FL 32119.
Memorial service date and place are pending.
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