News Summary
Oscar Wong, the founder of Highland Brewing and a major influence in Asheville’s craft beer industry, has passed away at 84. Surrounded by family at home, his death followed a brave battle with cancer. A memorial celebration was held at Highland Brewing, honoring his legacy and the community spirit he fostered. Wong’s contributions to crafting beer and mentoring others left a lasting impression on the local industry and its culture. His daughter, Leah Wong Ashburn, continues to uphold his legacy as the President and CEO of Highland Brewing.
Asheville, NC – Oscar Wong, the founder of Highland Brewing and a significant figure in the craft beer industry, passed away at the age of 84 on May 25, 2023. His death occurred peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife, Anna, and daughter, Leah Wong Ashburn. Wong had been battling cancer for three years, outliving his initial prognosis of six to twelve months.
A memorial celebration honoring Wong’s life and legacy took place on June 29 at Highland Brewing. The event drew hundreds of attendees, including family, friends, and community members, who gathered to pay tribute to the man referred to as the “Godfather of Asheville Craft Beer.” A quartet from the Asheville Symphony Orchestra performed during the ceremony, accompanied by food inspired by Wong’s life.
Born to Chinese immigrants in Jamaica, Wong originally pursued a career in engineering but later transformed his passion for home brewing into a business venture. In 1994, he founded Highland Brewing, which became a cornerstone of Asheville’s craft beer scene, helping to establish the city as a well-known destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Wong’s daughter, Leah Wong Ashburn, currently serves as the President and CEO of Highland Brewing, continuing her father’s legacy. During the memorial, Highland Brewing committed to donating one dollar for every Oscar Oatmeal Porter sold to the Arc of Buncombe County, reflecting Wong’s dedication to community service. He had previously served as board chair for the organization, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community he cherished.
Attendees expressed their appreciation for Wong’s visionary approach and charitable nature. Many recalled his warm smile and kindness, highlighting the personal relationships he built throughout his life. Wong was recognized as a humble and generous individual who valued community connections and advocated the philosophy that success goes beyond personal achievements—it includes lifting others and fostering relationships.
Throughout his career, Wong received several prestigious awards, including the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Person of the Year for North Carolina and the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest civilian honor. His legacy is marked not only by his contributions to the craft beer community but also by the many lives he touched with his mentorship and support.
Wong’s influence in shaping the local craft beer industry has inspired numerous future breweries and entrepreneurs. His approach to business emphasized the significance of community and collaboration. Wong’s commitment to his roots and his community played a vital role in transforming Asheville into a thriving hub for craft beer, where creativity and quality flourish.
Asheville residents and craft beer lovers alike will remember Oscar Wong not just for his entrepreneurial success but for the positive impact he had on the community and the friendships he nurtured along the way. His legacy serves as a reminder of the powerful role that individuals can play in uplifting their communities and fostering enduring connections.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Highland Brewing Celebrates Founder Oscar Wong
- Craft Brewing Business: Highland Brewing Mourns the Loss of Founder Oscar Wong
- Brewbound: Oscar Wong, Highland Brewing Founder, Dies at Age 84
- Mountain X: Oscar Wong, Founder of Highland Brewing Co, Dies at 84
- Wikipedia: Craft Beer
