Honoring a Craft Beer Trailblazer: Oscar Wong of Highland Brewing
The craft beer community has bid farewell to an iconic figure, Oscar Wong, the visionary behind Highland Brewing, nestled in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina. Fondly regarded as the “Godfather of Asheville Craft Beer,” Oscar’s influence is etched into the very fabric of the brewing culture that thrives in this vibrant city. On May 25, 2025, he peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the tanks of his brewery.
Despite a challenging cancer diagnosis, Oscar embraced his remaining years with the same zest for life that defined his storied career. His mantra, “Personal relationships are the currency of life,” resonated deeply within his circles, highlighting the profound gratitude he felt for the life he lived. Emphasizing human connection as a measure of success, Oscar’s legacy is interwoven with the stories of countless individuals who found inspiration through his kindness and vision.
The Legacy of Oscar Wong: Building Community Through Craft Beer
Oscar Wong’s journey from a budding engineer to a craft brewing pioneer encapsulates the essence of the American dream. Born to Chinese immigrants in Jamaica, he carved out a diverse career path—one marked by community service and entrepreneurial success. His work at the ARC, Rotary, and UNC Asheville, coupled with his love for Highland Brewing, showcases his commitment to giving back to his community with unwavering passion.
Under Oscar’s guidance, Highland Brewing’s post-retirement hobby evolved into a cornerstone of Asheville’s vibrant craft beer scene. The brewery’s influence extends far beyond its Appalachian roots, earning Oscar accolades like the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Person of the Year for North Carolina and the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Perhaps most notably, he received the Brewers Association’s Recognition Award, an honor reserved for those who propel the craft brewing movement forward.
A Personal Touch: Remembering Oscar Wong’s Impact on Lives
Oscar Wong’s generosity and warmth left indelible marks on those who knew him, building not just businesses, but bringing people together. His Friday rituals of sipping scotch with friends and playing handball at the age of 84 underscore a life lived to its fullest. Whether through heartfelt notes, sharing stories from the early days of Highland Brewing, or imparting advice, Oscar touched lives with a sincerity that inspired many to pursue their passions with vigor.
Reflecting on my own experience with Oscar, I recall a memorable evening at an Atlanta event for Highland Brewing. His ability to remember each new acquaintance by name, even hours later, left a lasting impression of a person genuinely invested in the connections he forged. Oscar’s vivacious presence in the world of craft beer remains unmatched and continues to inspire the community to uphold the values he held dear.
Though Oscar Wong’s physical presence may be missed, his spirit lives on in every poured pint and every story shared over a cold glass of Highland brew—a testament to his enduring influence in the U.S. craft beer landscape.
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