In Memoriam: Roy C. Hon, Sr.

Roy C. Hon, Sr., 92, a resident of Canyon Lake and Tujunga, California, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Roy is survived by his beloved wife of more than 67 years, Dr. Jeanne E. Hon, his Son, Dr. Roy C. Hon, Jr., and his daughter, Kathleen E. Hon.

Born in Los Angeles, Roy graduated from Canoga Park High School in 1942 and immediately joined the Army Air Corps. A member of the “Greatest Generation” who loved his family and his country, he flew in B-17s and B-24s as a member of the 838th Bomb Squadron of the 487th Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force, flying out of Lavenham, England. After being shot during a mission (for which he was awarded a Purple Heart) and spending 39 days in a hospital in London, he flew out of Italy as a member of the 756th Bomb Squadron of the 833rd Bomb Group of the 15th Air Force until his return home to the United States to continue his education.

Roy’s life was once again interrupted when he was recalled to fly in B-29s during the Korean War, when he was temporarily assigned to Guam as part of the crew of a B-29 carrying the atomic bomb while President Truman decided whether or not it would be dropped on North Korea. Upon his return home, he once again continued his education, graduating from Pasadena Nazarene College (now Point Loma University) and USC, where he studied engineering. His career as an electrical engineer in the aircraft industry was a joy until his retirement in 1987.

Roy was not only a wonderful husband and father, but as past Commander of the Disabled American Veterans, he was also a kind and caring contributor to his community who made a difference by always lending a helping hand and sympathetic ear. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and his kind smile and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew him.

A private memorial service will be planned for the placement of his marker.