Cheukman Sam Ko 1948-2007

TSANG, KO

Posted By: michael (email)
Date: 6/12/2007 at 11:11:37

Cheukman Sam Ko, 59, of Iowa City, died Sunday, June 10, 2007 at 1:33 a.m. peacefully in his home. Sam, the son of Ngok Wing Ko and Su Fong Tsang, was born in Hong Kong where he became a highly regarded lighting technician and gaffer in the in the Hong Kong film industry. Sam had the opportunity to collaborate on motion pictures with film stars such as Jackie Chan, Chow Yun Fat, George Harrison, and Sean Penn prior to relocating to the United States. When Sam moved to the states, he eventually found his way to Iowa City to help with the family business, China Garden. Sam also owned and operated The Wok and Ko’s Kitchen in downtown Iowa City. Sam was a devoted husband, enjoyed gardening, fishing, and spending time with his boys. Survivors include his wife, Tammie Cumming, and three sons, Jack (16 yrs.), Alex (11 yrs.), and Matthew (9 years). Sam is also survived by his mother, Su Fong Tsang of Oakland, CA, and three sisters, Alicia Tang of Las Vegas, NV; Kitty Chan of Modesto, CA; and Polly Ma of San Jose, CA.

Memorial services will be held 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 16, 2007 at at the All Nations Church in Iowa City. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Aspire Scholarship Program of the National Learning and Achievement Organization, Inc. of Iowa City.