Vinh Thanh Nguyen

Vinh had an extraordinary life that was like a story movies are made of. He was born in Vietnam and due to his brilliant intellect earned the privilege to attend primary school which was only limited to a small percentage of children due to the few educational resources available. This established Vinh's strong belief that education was an opportunity to never take for granted, and it would be the key to success in life. He eventually held the prestigious career of hospital administrator and quickly worked his way up the ranks in the military becoming the captain of the South Vietnamese army during the Vietnam War. Being a master at playing the game of Chinese Chess, he was capable of thinking many steps ahead of his opponent. He applied this skill to life and all the situations he encountered. A few weeks before the Vietnam War was officially lost, Vinh predicted such an outcome was inevitable and devised a plan to escape Vietnam for him and his family. With hopes of freedom from Communist tyranny and control, Vinh risked everything to lead his family and other families in a perilous escape on a boat that had minimal rations for the passengers and risked dangerous encounters with pirates at sea. After surviving a war, escaping from his enemies, and embarking on a dangerous journey across the ocean, Vinh finally reached America, his "land of opportunity". He had to start his life all over again at age 36 and learn a new spoken language and culture which brought many obstacles and challenges. With his incredible work ethic and determination, Vinh managed to work full time, attend night school to become a U.S. citizen, and be an encouraging and loving father to his children. Eventually, Vinh reached his ambitions of earning a college degree and becoming an Electrical Engineer. Vinh's leadership, courage, sacrifices, and wise choices gave his children the chance to grow up in a country that gave them the opportunity to achieve successful careers and financial prosperity. Everything Vinh did in his life was because of the love he had for his family. He was devoted to ensuring his children had the best future possible. Vinh leaves a legacy that inspires future generations to overcome any hardships through perseverance and determination and to be unyielding in the pursuit of their dreams.

Vinh will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Lois Nguyen; children: Brittany Vining (husband-Berner), Trisha Owen (husband-Greg), Leanne Tran (husband-Andrew), and Adam Nguyen (wife-Marie); grandchildren: George Vining, Victoria Vining, Gavin Vining, Cole Vining, Kayla Owen, Leela Owen, Alyssa Tran, Austin Tran, Clara Nguyen, and Fletcher Nguyen; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

A celebration of Vinh's life will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at the Resthaven Funeral Home with a viewing and reception with food in the Chapel from 11:30 am-1 pm and funeral proceedings beginning at 1 pm.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com for the Nguyen family.