Sipho Sar

Sipho was the second eldest of thirteen siblings and the first-born son of his family. He carried both responsibility and quiet strength from a young age, qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

In February 1982, following the hardships of the Khmer Rouge genocide, Sipho and his family were sponsored and welcomed to the United States initially settling in Marceline, Missouri. Through a connection with a friend he met during their migration, Sipho became the first of his family to relocate to Columbia, Missouri. His family soon followed. Later he moved to San Jose, California, to pursue his education in 1983 and where he shared a lifelong partnership with his beloved spouse, Sarieng, with whom he raised three daughters: Terri, Nencey, and Josie.

In 2009, he, his wife, and daughters relocated to Columbia, Missouri to be closer to his family.

As a father, he was known for being strict in his early years, instilling discipline and values, and later becoming more relaxed, offering quiet support and understanding as his children grew.

He was employed with Energy Sales Manufacturing for over 30 years, where he was known for his dedication, reliability, and steady work ethic.

Sipho was a devoted grandfather to Natalie, Wyatt, Cadence, Cayson, Cordell, R’mira, and R’mir Jr. He found deep joy in caring for his grandchildren and had a gentle presence that made those around him feel safe and loved.

A man of few words, Sipho expressed himself through quiet actions. He enjoyed learning and expanding his understanding of life through the teachings of Buddhist monks. He found peace in observing the world around him, often content sitting and people-watching. Music was also a constant companion; he loved listening to classic Khmer songs, especially those by Sinn Sisamouth, as well as American 80s classic rock.

He was preceded in death by his father, Sadin Sar; his mother, Chhat Sman; and his younger brother, Pisith Sar.

He is survived by his siblings: Sophary (and her 3 children), Sophara (and her husband, Vanna, and 3 children), Chhaty (and his wife, Kong, and 2 children), Chhady (and his wife, Chea, and 3 children), Srey Mom (and her 3 children), Srey Poeu (her partner, Jay, and 5 children), Yossi (and her 2 children), Serey Rath (and her husband, Chad, and 1 child), and Ronay (and her partner, Tong, and 3 children).

Sipho will be remembered as a sweet, gentle man whose quiet strength, steady presence, and deep love for his family will never be forgotten.