Obituary of Esther Don Tang

Esther Don Tang 97, of Tucson, Arizona, died Saturday, February 28, 2015. She was born March 5, 1917 in Tucson to Don Wah and FokYut Ngan. She is preceded in death by husband, David Tang; daughter, Patti Tang Crowley and siblings, Rose Wu, Mae Tom, Luella Don, Dorothy Don, Hildred (Dolly) Wong and Phillip Don. Esther is survived by sisters, Bessie Chan, Mildred (Cupie) Tom and Norma Don; children, Diana (Cherry) Simoes, David Tang Jr. and Liz Tang; grandchildren, Casey Treptow, Brian Crowley, Shane Tang, David Wing Tang III, Darren Simoes and Andre Simoes; great- grandchildren, Jake Treptow, Paige Treptow, Charlotte Crowley, Cameron Crowley and Jack David Tang and close friend, Constance Howard. Her childhood home was a store/house at the corner of Jackson and Convent streets, where the Tucson Convention Center now stands. Growing up in the Tucson Barrio/Chinatown, she became fluent in Spanish and Chinese. She and her husband David were owners of a Campbell Avenue retail center in Tucson. Esther helped establish Pio Decimo Neighborhood Center, serving 20 years as Executive Director. Her later career included real estate development as part of an all-woman company whose vision was to create a unique brand of quality living facilities for the elderly and families with children. Esther lived by her favorite motto, "Don't worry, be happy." She inspired individuals, no matter what race, social class, or age, with her positive energy. Esther was named Tucson Woman of the Year in 1955. Her volunteerism, leadership, and achievements included works for the YWCA, The Diocese of Tucson, The Salvation Army, Pima Community College Board of Governors, Pima Council On Aging, La Doña de los Descendientes del Presidio de Tucson, Tucson Chinese Cultural Center and countless others. She was completely dedicated to her family and community, which she often made one and the same. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, March 28, 2015 at 1:00 p.m., St. Peter & Paul Church, 1436 N. Campbell Ave. Donations may be made to: The David & Esther Tang Scholarship Endowment Fund - Pima Community College Foundation, 4905 C East Broadway Blvd., Tucson AZ, 85709-1320. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to friends and family who made a difference in Esther's life; a special thanks to Amber Lights Senior Community for their love and special care, and to Casa de la Luz Hospice Care. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel.