Nhon Thien Nguyen

Mr. Nhon Thien Nguyen

Born on June 19, 1945, in Nha Trang, Vietnam, he was the fourth child in a family of educators. He was always deeply loved by his brothers and sisters for his gentle, kind, and affectionate nature.

He joined the military to defend South Vietnam during the civil war between the North, which was under communist rule, and the southern Republic of Vietnam. In the military, he was a dedicated officer who served wholeheartedly for his ideals, holding the rank of Captain. Unfortunately, in 1975, when the Northern army took control of the South, he was imprisoned, enduring both physical and mental torture for many years. In 1982, he was finally able to return home. However, under the communist regime, he faced discrimination and hardship, making it extremely difficult to find employment.

In 1986, in pursuit of freedom, he escaped Vietnam, embarking on a dangerous journey overseas. After many days drifting at sea in a small boat, he reached Thailand. There, he stayed at a United Nations refugee camp for three years before being granted political asylum by the United States, where he resettled in 1989.

He worked diligently, learned English, and was an exemplary citizen. He sponsored his only daughter, her husband, and their two sons from Vietnam to settle in the United States and reunite with him and his wife. He was a deeply responsible husband, father, and grandfather who loved his children and grandchildren unconditionally. In the community, he was always eager to help newly arrived Vietnamese immigrants and was cherished by everyone. This was vividly evident a few weeks ago when people from throughout his life gathered at the hospital to visit him and say their final goodbyes. He was surrounded by the overwhelming love of his family and friends.

With profound sorrow, we bid him farewell. May his soul rest in eternal peace.