Kings mourn death of Golden 1 Center security guard: ‘Joe Wong I’ll never forget you’
The Kings organization is mourning the loss of a friend after Joseph Wong, a longtime member of the arena security team, died Friday as a result of a heart attack.
Wong, 57, was a loving husband and devoted father of two who worked several jobs to provide for his family. He worked closely with the Kings behind the scenes at Golden 1 Center, endearing himself to players, coaches, staff, media and most anyone who encountered his smiling face.
Wong has been a part of the Kings’ security team since 2006, when the team played at Sleep Train Arena. On game nights at Golden 1 Center in recent years, he was stationed at the player’s entrance, where he greeted players and staff as they arrived at the team facility, often offering candy and kind words.
“Damn Joe!” Kings center Harry Giles III wrote on Twitter. “I’m still in disbelief! My heart hurt just because you were just so good of a guy! Like how can you be so positive everyday? Even in your pictures you look like the best! Love you man. Wish I could’ve told you that and thank you!!”
Kings guards Buddy Hield and Yogi Ferrell expressed sadness as well.
“Rest Easy Joe we gonna miss ya man,” Hield said on Twitter.
“One of the happiest positive guys I’ve met during my time in Sacramento,” Ferrell said. “I will definitely miss him man I’m sick right now.”
Doug Christie, a Kings great who now provides color commentary during television broadcasts, punctuated his words on Twitter with a broken-heart emoji.
“Much love to Joe’s family,” Christie said. “Walking into G1C (Wong) always had a kind word.”
According to his family, Wong was born in Hong Kong in 1963. He worked as a systems analyst at the California DMV and provided security at Golden 1 Center, among other jobs. His family described him as “a proud American citizen” who frequently volunteered at the Rocklin Police Department.
Wong is survived by his mother, WanChun Wong, sister, Tina Wong-Yuan, wife, Sara, and their children, Jonathan and Megan. Relatives have started a GoFundMe campaign to help Wong’s family. Anyone wishing to donate may do so at gofundme.com/f/memory-of-joe-wong.
“Regardless of all the jobs Joe had or how crazy his schedule was, his favorite job was being a dad,” Rory Delmue wrote in a tribute to Wong. “He was there for every moment of fun with the kids, including letting Megan paint his nails and teaching Jonathan how to drive. Joe was the best dad. He always encouraged the kids to follow their interests and dreams. He will forever be Jonathan and Megan’s number one supporter.”
The Kings issued a statement describing Wong as gentle, jovial and kind.
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Joe’s passing,” the team said. “He was a beloved member of our Kings family, dedicated husband and loving father. He will always be remembered for his genuine kindness towards every person he interacted with. His smiling face, patient nature through any circumstance and constant positivity was truly appreciated and will forever remain in our memories. We express our deepest condolences to his wife Sara, son Jonathan, daughter Megan and the entire Wong family as we keep them all in our hearts, thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.”
Tributes from Kings players came throughout the weekend following Wong’s death.
“Rest in power Joe!” Kings forward Harrison Barnes wrote on Twitter. “You were always positive, supportive and a great guy to be around. Praying for your family and loved ones.”
Giles authored multiple posts, sharing photos and some of his fondest memories of Wong.
“My heart is heavy!” Giles said. “Joe Wong! I’ll never forget you my man! You were one of the nicest people I’ve ever met! Your attitude never changed! You showed me how to show up every day for work and regardless of what’s going on, always be happy! … You were so uplifting & positive! Going to miss you having mango hi chews and green jolly ranchers for me when I came in G1C or asking was my mom coming to the game. Wish I could do it all one more time and hug you. Going to miss you so much. Thank you for everything!”
This story was originally published July 13, 2020 at 5:00 AM.
