Herbert Hong, co-founder of Ethel's Dress Shoppe, dead at 91

Advertiser Staff

Herbert S.Y. Hong, a retired city comptroller and co-founder of Ethel's Dress Shoppe, died April 1 in Honolulu. He was 91.

Hong was born June 17, 1909, in Kahului, Maui. He joined the Honolulu city government's Finance Department in 1945 and served as chief accountant until 1962.

Hong and his wife, Ethel, opened a dress shop in downtown Honolulu during World War II. Ethel's specialized in working wear and petite sizes for women.

After 51 years in business, the Hongs sold their lease at the Pearlridge store and in 1994 sold the stores at Ala Moana Center and Kahala Mall.

Ethel Hong died in 1997.

Herbert Hong is survived by his son, Herbert Jr.; two grandchildren; brothers, Joseph and Moses Kim; sisters, Ida Morton, Soonie Lee and Clara Kim. Visitation 4 p.m. Saturday at Diamond Head Mortuary, service 5 p.m.