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Chong, Dr. Julian Maki

July 26, 1962 –
 August 18, 2019

Obituary

A Life Well Lived

Our beloved Julian passed from this life on a quiet Sunday afternoon in August.  He left us peacefully in his sleep as he lay napping at the family home.  The shock of his sudden, unexpected passing is exceeded only by the heartbreak felt by all who knew him; family, friends, patients and colleagues alike. Born in Seattle, WA, Julian was the second of Dr. Key Ray and Fusae Chong’s four sons.  The family later relocated to Lubbock, TX where Julian attended Monterey High School, graduating in 1980.  Among his other high school achievements he was a Texas All State Percussionist, a source of pride for his close knit family.  After earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Baylor University at Waco he continued his graduate studies at Baylor Dental School, completing the Doctorate program in 1987.  His undergraduate years were full, as he continued to explore his lifelong interest in music and was very active on the University Lacrosse team.  In 1989 he made the first major step in his professional career when he opened the first of two thriving dental practices, one in the Dallas suburb of Richardson and then a few years later an additional office in Irving. On a full moon on October 8th, 1995 in Hawaii, Julian married the love of his life Cathy Fraser Chong of Lubbock, TX.  The pair had long known of each other but timing and circumstances had kept them apart early on.  Finally the stars aligned in 1991 and they met.  After six years of marriage the joy of their lives together was made perfect by the arrival of the first of two beautiful children.  Lucy joined the family in January, 2001 with Race following two years later in January, 2003. The faith and pride that Julian and Cathy have in their children is surpassed only by their love for them. Day to day life in the Chong home was always full.  Julian’s love of music was central to their home life.  His skill with any number of instruments was well known, but he was particularly fond of the piano.  His musical ability never failed to bring joy to those around him and lighten spirits of all generations. A lifelong athlete, Julian’s love of golf was central to his life in the middle years. A fixture on the amateur and semi-professional tournament circuit, he saw significant achievement in competitive golf, working towards his dream of joining the Senior Pro Tour in retirement. A generous soul, Julian’s care and concern for others was manifest where he saw needed.  He provided comfort and service in both his personal and professional life.  Traditional holidays he observed but found manufactured and constraining.  His secret random acts of kindness were well known to all who knew him well. For these and so many other reasons our Julian will be missed.  He was kind, strong and thoughtful.  He never failed to make those around him smile.  His life is the example of a life well lived. Julian is survived by his wife Cathy Chong and their children Lucy and Race, his father Dr. Key Ray Chong and beloved step-mother Dr. Hee Sook Chong (Los Angeles, CA), his brothers and their families Danny and Lydia Chong, Carly, Gracie and Anna (Kingwood, TX), Herbert and Sue Chong, Sydney and Henry (Chandler, AZ) and Teddy and Jennifer Chong and Elizabeth (Rosenberg, TX).  Julian is predeceased by his mother Fusae Maki Chong. Please join the Chong family at a Celebration of Life Gathering at 3pm on Saturday August 31st, 2019 at The Lakewood Country Club.  Casual business attire.  Your fond memories of Julian may also be shared at Chongstories@bradoldham.com.  Make sure that Lucy and Race remember their dad as the fun-loving, cool man that he was. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.  

_____________________________________ A Signature Service under the direction of: Aria Cremation Service & Funeral Home 10116 E. Northwest Highway Dallas, Texas 75238 214-340-8008

    Roger Pieratt
    23 Aug 2019
    3:03pm

    My friend, my buddy, my best man…God’s peace be with us all. Love my brother and his family

    Tonya (Baker) Ahn
    23 Aug 2019
    4:17pm

    My deepest condolences to the entire family.
    Julian and I were friends through band at MHS. Julian had such a grace about him.
    It is wonderful to read about his beautiful life.
    My prayers go out to all his family members in the loss of a lovely soul.

    Mahalo Julian for the imprint of your life!

    Sherrie Cooke
    23 Aug 2019
    6:14pm

    Julian was always generous with his acceptance of others and he always had a smile. You will be missed!

    Julie Barron
    23 Aug 2019
    6:34pm

    Cathy & Family,
    What a life well lived, my heartfelt sympathies are all I can give as you all begin this journey. There are few things to say and none truly needed except you are surrounded by many who understand, and care. Stay faithful, julie

    Sara Knight Posey
    23 Aug 2019
    7:57pm

    I did not know him, but obviously missed out. Cathy, when we had lunch a few years ago,you were glowing when you spoke about him about him, your family and his. I can’t even imagine what all of you are going through. I am praying for all of you to comfort and strength.

    Athanasios Saki Labos
    23 Aug 2019
    8:09pm

    RIP old friend you will be missed but your memory will continue for eternity!!
    Great memories at Nick’s Cafe with the family and the guys !!
    May the Lord rest your soul in Peace !!
    Have a peaceful journey to the other side and I know we will meet again sometime!!
    God bless your family !°

    Karen Kennedy
    24 Aug 2019
    10:37am

    I met Maki in 1993, through Mark Naylor. He was my friend before he was my dentist. I actually looked forward to going to the dentist. I will always miss him.
    I love his family as well.

    Matt Kardash
    25 Aug 2019
    10:02am

    Thoughts and Prayers to Julian’s Family. This is a trying time and we know Julian’s spirit is with us and his body is made new and whole now and he is in a Place now where he is in Peace.
    Praying for the Family.

    Laurie Appelbaum
    25 Aug 2019
    11:22am

    Words can not adequately describe the sadness of losing someone who was kind, compassionate and caring. My dentist for over 20 years who spent time discussing with me so many topics – golf, golf, his children, golf! What a tragic loss to so many people. Dr. Chong, you will be missed.

    Burt Rieck
    25 Aug 2019
    12:01pm

    Julian was one of the nicest men I have ever met. Always in a happy place when competing on my golf tour. Guys looked forward to playing with Julian! He will be missed by all of us. My condolences to his family and friends. Burt Rieck with FairWay Golf Tour

    Wanda Huckaby
    25 Aug 2019
    8:07pm

    My prayers and condolences go out to the family. May God grant you peace.

    Debra & Harold Garlin
    25 Aug 2019
    8:16pm

    God took our wonderful,compassionate dentist too soon. He will truly be missed. Our thought and prayers for Cathy, kids, and his staff.

    Lashanda
    25 Aug 2019
    8:45pm

    My condolences to the family he was a awesome Dentist been seeing him since 1991 with my family The Garlin’s he will always be in our hearts ♥️

    Brenda/Larry Jobe
    25 Aug 2019
    10:14pm

    Cathy and staff – Larry and I feel a fret loss in not only a dentist but a family of friends that took such loving care of us. We loved him dearly and are great saddened by his loss. He was wise and kind and patient and fun. I trusted him and looked forward to my two visited a year. Prayers for all the loved ones. He was a gift – and may God give comfort and peace.

    Mike Jones
    26 Aug 2019
    5:40pm

    Cathy and Family,
    It is with admiration and sadness I compose this note of condolence for Julian’s passing. Great memories surround my recollections iof Julian and I can still see his infectious smile. I am not surprised by his accomplishments rather he was certainly a role model of excellence. When I recall our senior high band motto, “Excellence doesn’t just Happen” I am reminded of him. Quite frankly, I think it may have been him who originated the motto! God Bless you and prayers of comfort for you all.

    The Kobdish Family
    26 Aug 2019
    7:07pm

    What a beautiful tribute. He was always so kind when I ran into him at school events and Starbucks. Never saw him without a smile and always joked about the kids being silly. May God hold your family tight and bring you strength. Rest in Peace Julian.

    Debbie Lacey
    26 Aug 2019
    10:22pm

    My deepest sympathies go to the family of Julian Chong
    I’m so sorry for your loss
    I have known the family for years and he was my dentist
    He will be missed
    I loved talking to him about sports
    Cathy if you need anything please call me
    972 342 3308
    Prayers are with you and your family
    Love Debbie

    Kennessa C Hartin
    27 Aug 2019
    4:43pm

    I had just started seeing Dr Chong 2 months ago and had just been to his office again the Thursday before he passed. A co-worker referred me to him. My condolences to his family, staff and friends.

    Sewell Pappas
    28 Aug 2019
    11:32pm

    Cathy, Lucy and Race,

    Our hearts ache with yours in the loss of your wonderful husband and Dad.
    For more than 30 years his dental practice has been two hours away from us,
    (one way) and we would never have thought of going anywhere else.

    Dr. Chong, as we knew him, was the kindest, gentlest and most talented dentist we will ever know.
    His easy-going manner combined with a golf course coolness and outgoing personality
    Were most disarming and greatly appreciated in the midst of a marathon back to back
    root canal session. Personally, I am not aware of too many dentists who will perform
    root canal through a bridge, with absolute perfect accuracy. I always thought this was
    amazing, though he and Lawanda felt it was all just part of a day’s work!

    I enjoyed hearing about his most recent tournaments and always had a sense
    of him downplaying his accomplishments… Not a boastful man – just a really cool,
    modest guy who cast a giant shadow. As a teenager, trying to deal with the Loss
    of a Most Beloved Grandfather, my Mother assured me that we never have to
    lose our loved ones, we can keep them alive in our hearts, until they are in
    our arms again.

    We will miss this wonderful man as we hope and pray that the collective
    love and support of family and friends will provide warmth and strength
    through this difficult time.

    Sewell, Patty and Laura

    Ragan Family
    29 Aug 2019
    10:50am

    With Sympathy,
    Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage, to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Chong was our family dentist for over 20 years. He will truly be missed!
    The Ragan’s

    wheilan wallace
    29 Aug 2019
    4:15pm

    You were always a very pleasant person. May God bless your soul

    The I-Tour
    30 Aug 2019
    8:16am

    On behalf of the entire I-Tour Golf Family we want give our condolences to the entire Chong Family. Julian was a joy to be around and a fierce competitor on the golf course. His greatest accomplishment on the golf course was winning last years Tour Championship at The Bandit Golf Club.

    Julian’s golf family consists of over 500 golfers. He lead The Dallas I-Tour Ryder Cup Team to epic victory and played in over 130 Professional Golf Tournaments. Julian always had a smile on his face and a cigar in his hand.

    No one on earth knew the rules of golf more than Julian. We would often turn to him when we had rules questions.

    Julian Chong….The true definition of a real man…Honest…Thoughtful…Smart…and Kind…

    Sarah Kim -Mason
    30 Aug 2019
    7:59pm

    Sallie and I and our entire Kim family send our condolences to your family. We remember the fun times we had as awkward adolescents visiting your family from Denton to Lubbock while our fathers stayed up all night talking and catching up. Mark and I also remember your smile and easy going nature while you were in the class behind us at Baylor College of Dentistry. While we did not stay in touch, we are happy to hear that Julian enjoyed practicing dentistry.
    May your family be blessed with many happy memories of Julian and the life he led.

    Vic and Barbara Johnson
    30 Aug 2019
    11:53pm

    We all love Dr Chong!! Our family has been so cared for by Dr Chong for over 25 years. Praying for Cathy and children, and all his staff. Our love, Vic and Barbara Johnson

    Keith Bearden
    31 Aug 2019
    9:29am

    I am so saddened at the passing of Julian. Julian and I had lost touch over the years until our phone visit a few months back. The conversation was like we’d never lost a beat. We talked about golf and the good old Monterey HS days where he was our drum captain. We had a diverse line and were always proud that we had asian, black, white, hispanic, male and female. Julian and I reminisced about those times and promised each other to get together for a round of golf soon, sadly we never got the chance. To his wife and children, I want you to know what a great young man and leader your husband/dad was. He was smart, happy, funny, disciplined and always respectful. I’m sorry we cannot attend his memorial service today as I would’ve enjoyed all the wonderful things that will be shared about his adult life as a dad, a doctor, a husband and as a friend. I will miss seeing his old classmates who will attend to celebrate his amazing life. I loved those students like my own and enjoyed the short time we all shared together. My deepest sympathy to Julian’s family. May you be comforted with love an beautiful memories. Hugs. ❤️

    Kara Johnson LaPenna
    31 Aug 2019
    8:30pm

    What an incredible dentist and charismatic person. When I learned of Dr. Chong’s passing I literally sat down and cried. He had been my dentist for about 20 years, since I was a young teen, and I came to think of him (and Cathy) as more than just a “dentist” – but as a friendly fixture in my life. He will be greatly missed. Praying God’s peace and closeness to Cathy, Lucy and Race.
    ❤️ Kara

    Michelle Clark
    1 Sep 2019
    3:03am

    Dearest Chong Family,
    My heart breaks for you today. God has seen fit to give us each other since our moms were young. Through joys and deep sorrows we have come. And now once again we face a very unexpected sorrow. Though I’m sure our moms are happy to have Julián safe on heavens shores, we mourn. May our dear Lord comfort you. I’m glad I was able to get to know Julián a bit as an Adult, he fixed my tooth and i had a lovely time getting to know his family. Can still see and hear Julián playing “ Turn Around” .
    Know that I love you all and will be praying as we travel this difficult road together. Love and lots of hugs!!

    David Schoemaker
    4 Sep 2019
    11:40am

    Vernon Schoemaker, the Schoemaker family and the staff at Toyota of Irving wish to express our sympathy and condolences to the family of Dr. Julian Chong. Juian lived a good life with a strong family and leave a legacy of respect for his good work but more importantly being a good man.We have made a donation to a neighborhood church in his honor. We wish his family the best as they move forward.

    Joan (Grassel) Ryan
    9 Sep 2019
    10:53pm

    Dear Cathy,

    Sending love and hugs to you & your family.
    Love, Joan (your 49th St family).

    Joan Grassel Ryan
    9 Sep 2019
    10:55pm

    Dear Cathy,
    Sending love from your 49th Street family.

    Velma Webster (Myles)
    17 Oct 2019
    5:38pm

    I am so sorry to hear this sad news. My son was scheduled to see Dr. Chong this month. He called me after he was notified of Dr Chong passing. It was very hard to believe. Dr. Chong has been our dentist for over 25 years. I always liked Dr. Chong and his staff. May the Chong Family remain strong. May God’s Comfort continues to surround you and provide Peace.

    Alan Stephenson
    23 Oct 2019
    11:08am

    Just found out about this. I grieve with you Cathy, family and staff. Just remember love never dies. Prayers for you all.

    Liz and Lee Adams (Caleb)
    23 Oct 2019
    5:02pm

    We just received the news in a letter sent from the office. We send our deepest condolences to the Chong family. We are mourning with you. We pray peace and comfort in your hearts. May Dr. Chong forever be remembered as the fun filled, smiling, caring soul that our entire family had the pleasure in knowing. We are continuously thinking of you, Cathy, and your precious children.

    Florence Samples
    29 Oct 2019
    1:52pm

    I just found out today Dr. Chong had passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. He was a wonderful man.

    Julie Marie Reimer
    15 Nov 2019
    1:45am

    Dr. Chong’s soul has been bright since the 1st time I met him in the early 90’s when he started with Dr.Davenport in Irving. I would always tell him he has a bright soul he asked how I knew that, my response was because it shines through your eyes & is what gives you your natural grace of compassion & love for everyone you come across. I remember in 1992 I was 16 when I had my 1st son DREW & I remember my son sitting on my belly when I was getting my bands fixed on my braces & Dr. Chong always playing with my son. I had been going to that office since we moved to Texas in 1980. Of course life has happened through the years & when I seen him again I believe it was around 2011 he had heard my health challenges I had been through & was overwhelmed with how I carried myself he never would have known my struggles he said because my personality has always been big & full of laughter. When he found out how I was having strokes and wasn’t sure what was happening to me and how 3 yrs before this meeting I had fought cancer & that completely took a toll on my teeth. He said I’ve always had beautiful strong perfect teeth why wasn’t I smiling. He was informed of my health & I swear by the time I arrived back to my parents house the office was on the phone with my mom I walked in the door seen her crying on the phone & of course I thought the worst somebody has passed to a new chapter of life. But instead she hands me the phone & it’s my favorite dentist on the other line along with my favorite ladies in office who I hear sniffling as Dor Chong tells me he has always seen my soul shine bright through my eyes & my big smile that when seeing me today he didn’t like how I covered my smile & he was going to fix it for free of charge on his behalf. He knew my situation and could tell it was from the chemo & not neglect of why my teeth were falling out my mouth I was 24 when my 1st tooth fell out. Funny thing is my son Drew & were brushing our teeth before & out comes my tooth not broken or rotted out. It was a perfect tooth. My son looked at me said was that your tooth & I just sat there staring at it in disbelief. Well this continued until the phone call from him.
    I was told I had always brought love comfort & laughter to that office from day one. Hearing him say that to me meant so much to me because I’ve always been the type of person who doesn’t go to any doctor unless there’s that natural connection of respect but main of comfort. So to hear that about me from them reassured me I was on point.
    As promised he fixed me up. So I could be me all the way again
    It breaks my heart I’m writing this now
    My heart & Prayers are with everyone right now

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