Thong Khammy

Thong Khammy passed away at his home on Sunday, March 8th, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 9, 1945 in Kenthao, Laos, he was a dedicated language and math teacher whose passion for education touched many lives in his homeland.

Seeking a better future for his family, Thong immigrated to the United States in 1981, first settling in Princeton, New Jersey. In 1989, he moved to Des Moines, Iowa to be closer to loved ones. For 26 years, he worked alongside his wife at Methodist Medical Center in maintenance. Thong cherished traveling and spending time with his grandchildren in Iowa and Connecticut, where he lovingly shared Lao traditions and culture with them. A respected member of the Laos Buddhist Temple, he served as vice president and treasurer.

He is survived by his wife, Khamphiane; two daughters, Bounmy (Somkhouan) Vansylalom and Sommaly (Vone) Ounthongdy; five grandchildren, Souvanni and Cody Vansylalom, Tyler, Gabriel (Aleksi), and Madison Ounthongdy; and great-granddaughter Nyla Ounthongdy. Thong will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.