Franciscus Suwandha Halim

Franciscus Suwandha Halim (Liem Tiong Swan) was born in Jepara, Indonesia on May 25th, 1926. He was married to Francisca Maria Arlianti Halim (Oey Lian Nio) who went to the father in January 2008. He had six children, and fourteen grandchildren. They lived together in Jepara, Indonesia until their retirement in 2005, and then moved to Los Angeles to live with their son.

As a father, he always provided for his family and was able to raise 6 kids throughout political turmoil in the sixties in Indonesia. He was able to create opportunities when none was sight such as small transportation business and earn enough money to send all his kids to college and even send most of them to study abroad in America. He prioritized his children’s education, and also raised them with strong biblical moral values. He insisted on having dinner together as family gatherings, and used this time to communicate with his children. He prayed for his family consistently every morning and night and made church attendance a priority. Because of this, his children are well raised, successful and are able to achieve their own individual dreams and goals.

As a church elder, he was very active and helped to build and manage the first Catholic Church, serving as the board of director at an Elementary Catholic school and managed to build community hospital in Jepara. He had a lot of musical talent and played the piano, organ and violin for the church. He also directed the church Christmas and Easter dramas for many years. He was a faithful servant of God and was able to fulfill God's purpose in his life.

As a Grandfather, he was very caring towards his grandchildren. He would always ask about their well being and gave them resources to help them exceed. He would smile even during his sickness so that his grandchildren wouldn't worry about him. He loved to have fun with his grandchildren such as putting on family musical concerts and dances, watch movies and even making smoothies for them. He serves as a great example of kindness and selflessness for his grandchildren and others to follow.

He was very generous and always helping family, friends, and his community. He always found peaceful ways to resolve conflicts. He had a strong will, and did not want to bother other people during his time of sickness. We miss him very much and will always remember his kindness, compassion and principles.