Let’s Help Alan Fund the Fight Against Cancer

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alan Leong, who left us peacefully on October 11, 2023 after an exceptionally brave, grueling battle against GvHD, following treatment for Myelofibrosis and Smoldering Myeloma, at the age of 65. He was born on August 22, 1958 in Los Angeles, CA.

A resident of Bothell, WA, Alan lived a life filled with rich experiences and made an indelible mark on the world. He planted various fruit trees in his cul-de-sac for the neighborhood children and even rented an ice cream truck to host an ice cream social for his neighbors and students on a hot summer day.

He dedicated his life to serving the University of Washington’s Seattle and Bothell communities, leveraging the most valuable asset that he had–time–by dedicating it to his student innovators. At UW, Alan created and perfected his signature “Hell Night” Pitch Competition and taught courses such as Software Entrepreneurship, New Technology & Future Markets, Product Development Laboratory, and Venture Investing. He furthered his impact by taking the lead for the “Creating a Company” courses that have helped students launch actual start-ups. In 2006, Alan was voted “Best MBA Professor” at UW Bothell by its MBA Class of 2006 and in 2013, Alan was awarded the Certificate of Excellence by the Undergraduate Business Council at the Foster School.

Alan was a prolific advisor for biotechnology companies and he co-founded BioWatch News. Alan embodied the principles of “better together” to foster leaders and progress for a better tomorrow, and always celebrated the accomplishments of his former students. In some of his last posts online, Alan was still tagging former students who launched or joined companies and achieved milestones. Alan now leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations. He was not only a dedicated educator, but also a loyal friend who was always there to lend a helping hand and provide unwavering support.

Alan found immense joy in opening his home (and heart) to his loved ones and was often seen gabbing the night away, hosting a steady rotation of students, friends, family and neighbors around his kitchen table.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Louise Leong, with whom he is now reunited. He is survived by his friends, family, and students, who will carry forward the legacy of his love, passion, and dedication.

Rest in peace, Alan. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all those you touched.

We, as Alan’s friends and family, would like to extend our gratitude to Alan’s anonymous stem cell donor for her selfless act of service; to the providers at the University of Washington Medical Center, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for their care and compassion during Alan’s final days; and to Alan’s neighbors for taking such amazing care of his home. We would also like to express our deep appreciation for the outpouring of support, condolences, and kind words we have received during this difficult time. Alan touched the hearts of many, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A ceremony to celebrate the life of Alan Leong will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023. Friends are invited to attend and pay their respects by sharing stories and memories of a life well-lived. Because the venue has limited capacity, we ask that each attendee RSVP by 11/22/2023 by using the following link: https://bit.ly/AlanCelebration.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Alan’s non-profit LLC; gifts will be made in his memory to support entrepreneurial education. Alternatively, donations toward Alan’s outstanding medical bills can be made via this GoFundMe fundraiser and are much appreciated.