Xinh Thi Bogolawski

Xinh was born on the outskirts of Saigon, Vietnam on January 1, 1936. She fled Vietnam with her husband and eight children after losing one son during the fall of Saigon. She lived in Eastham, Massachusetts for several years before settling in Portland, Maine.

Xinh had an infectious smile that was only outdone by her heart to ensure no one was ever hungry. She enjoyed cooking for her children and all their friends. You could always find fresh food in the kitchen along with a fresh side of pork or beef being quartered on the table. Her kitchen welcomed all who were hungry.

She opened the first Vietnamese restaurant in Portland in 1986 across from the St.John Street bus station. She served classics such as Pho, Banh Mi and her world-famous egg rolls. She never stopped feeding anyone who was hungry and would serve those who couldn’t afford to pay.

Xinh is pre-deceased by her husband Joseph Bogolawski Sr., sons Thuy Nguyen, Duc Nguyen, Dan Nguyen, Tom Bogolawski. She is survived by her daughter Mary Bogolawski French and sons Tri Nguyen, Charlie Bogolawski, Joe Bogolawski Jr. and John Bogolawski. She is blessed with many daughter in-laws, son in-laws, grandchildren, a great grandchild, and many sons-daughters of greater Portland who adopted her as another mother in their lives.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating on behalf of Xinh to Wayside Food Programs, PO Box 1278, Portland, ME 04104.

You may offer your condolences online at www.jonesrichandbarnes.com