Wenli Cheng Kao's Obituary
Wenli Cheng Kao 鄭文理, aged 60, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 30, 2025 in Plano, Texas. Born in Taiwan on November 2nd, 1964 to Pinghsiang Cheng and Chungsuei Ouyang Cheng, she was beloved. Known for her sharp mind, kindness, and fierce love, Wenli brought joy and inspiration to everyone she met.
She graduated with a bachelor's degree from Chinese Culture University in Taiwan, earned her master's degree in Food Science from Auburn University in 1991, and then was a lecturer for her undergrad's university. Her knowledge of nutritional science and health has been passed onto all those who knew her, as she believed that all health started with nutritious meals. After all, hearty meals feed the stomach and soul.
Wenli was a dedicated and thoughtful mother, daughter, family, and friend. Married in 1992, she and her husband David Kao shared a wonderful life together for almost 33 years, sharing their love for National Parks, travelling, and their children and pets. Wenli poured love into family and friends and always defended those who needed help. Always asked to consult her family and friends on all decisions big and small, she helped us all navigate life challenges with her great attention to detail and forward-thinking. Fun-loving and always full of positivity, she could always be found joining silly dances in the kitchen with family at home or sharing funny stories. Crafting was always a strong suit, even hand-sewing costumes for her children or seat cushions. At her monthly Mom's Club, she would swap stories, advice, and good food. She was the confidant of many, and always had the most hilariously sharp comebacks.
In the face of hardships, she approached life with bravery, saying, "As long as there are medicines, it is not a problem." She taught us all how to live and love, and is adored by all.
Throughout her life, her passions were many, but her greatest joys came from volunteering in schools and the community, adorning home with plants, and mastering the culinary arts. She dedicated countless hours to FASCA (Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors), Girl Scouts of America, and PISD PTA (Plano ISD Parent Teacher Association), leaving a lasting impact on those she served. Her garden was a sanctuary of beautiful and bountiful plants, a reflection of her lively and playful spirit. And her love for food was evident in her perfected Taiwanese fried chicken, beef noodle soup, and zha jiang mian.
Wenli is survived by her loving family: Tawei David Kao (husband) Stephanie and Alison Kao (daughters), Wenyin Cheng Lee (sister), Wenshuo Cheng (brother), as well as many other family and friends who loved her deeply. She will be remembered for her unwavering love, kindness, and the joy she brought into all our lives.
The family would like to thank Dr. Stokoe, the wonderful nurses and staff at Texas Oncology, nurses on the oncology floor of Medical City Plano, and Pathway Hospice for their kindness and excellent care and support.
Celebration of Life / Memorial:
Sunday, March 9th, 2025 from 2:00pm to 3:00 pm Dallas, Texas time zone
Please note clocks spring FORWARD that day for daylight savings."
Restland Funeral Home's Memorial Chapel
13005 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75243
https://maps.app.goo.gl/aCUbzT21mcLtbCrs5
For those who are unable to attend, Please see link below for live streaming.
https://youtube.com/live/JX13qq0CUwM?feature=share
In Honor of Wenli's life, please dress in any smart casual minimum, dark colors such as (black, dark red/green/navy, etc...).
If you would like to order flowers, please ask the courier to deliver March 9, between 8am-12pm OR March 8 before 5pm.
Her final resting spot will be in Restland's mausoleum Whispering Waters.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/eAfmFe2jdKq2xRfXA
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