APABA-DC In Memoriam Statement Remembering
Past APABA-DC President Robert “Bob” Te-Kang Zung
It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Robert T. Zung, a trailblazer and former APABA-DC president (July 1987 - June 1988), who dedicated his life to justice and advancing the voice of Asian Pacific Americans within the legal profession. Bob, as he called himself and was known as to his friends, passed away on October 27, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and courage that has deeply influenced APABA-DC and the broader community, as well as a broad swathe of friends who miss him deeply.
Bob’s achievements as APABA-DC president marked him as a pioneering figure. In 1990, he made history by speaking before the Federal Courts Study Committee, advocating on behalf of the APA community at a time when few voices were heard at the federal level. Addressing the Committee on behalf of APABA-DC as well as our parent organization, the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (“NAPABA”), he called attention to the stark under-representation of persons of color on the federal bench, urging the nomination of qualified minority candidates. His testimony underscored the critical need for a judiciary that mirrors the diverse communities it serves, and it laid a foundation for future efforts to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the judicial system. As one of the founding members of NAPABA, Bob played an instrumental role shaping NAPABA into the powerhouse representative organization of the AAPINH community that it serves as today.
Bob’s contributions went beyond APABA-DC. An Eagle Scout, he dedicated himself as an adult leader with the Boy Scouts of America, embodying the spirit of service that defined his life. A graduate of Georgetown Law, Bob served as a Legal Editor at BNA and was active in the Asian Bar Association, strengthening APA representation in multiple arenas.
Bob was the beloved son of the late Dr. Max and Mrs. May Zung and is survived by his siblings, Richard (Jody) Zung, Rebecca (John Clough) Zung, Michael Zung, and numerous nieces and nephews.
APABA-DC is proud to remember and celebrate Bob’s trailblazing leadership, which elevated our organization and our community. We are grateful for his friendship and steadfast support, which uplifted so many in the NAPABA family.
Bob’s passion and dedication have left an indelible mark on our hearts, inspiring us to continue his work in creating a fairer, more inclusive legal system. Rest in peace, Bob. Your voice, vision, and values continue to guide us forward.
