Kenchanh Rattana

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Kenchanh Rattana, who entered eternal rest on September 26, 2025, at the age of 79 (84 in the Lao calendar). Born on October 9, 1945 (1940 in the Lao calendar), Kenchanh lived a life of devotion as a father, grandfather, and cherished uncle and friend to many.

Having bravely escaped from communist Laos to America in search of a better future, Kenchanh showed immense courage and resilience. His life was marked by hard work and determination as he devoted himself to caring for his family in a country that was new and unfamiliar to him. In Laos, he spoke French, which helped his family secure sponsorship from the Church of the Palms in Sarasota, Florida, to begin a new life in the United States. He loved the outdoors and working with his hands, which grew into running a successful landscaping business for many years in America.

Kenchanh was highly educated, having graduated from the Army School in 1957 in the field of the Academy of Economy and Financial Institute of the Lao Royal Army. He served his country with distinction in the Lao Royal Army as a First Lieutenant and Finance Director, overseeing all financial operations and payroll for the leaders, soldiers, and staff, earning widespread respect and recognition in his community. He carried that same honor and esteem into the Lao community in the United States, where he remained a cherished and influential presence. His warmth and generosity extended far beyond his home, as he built lasting friendships and meaningful connections both within his community and across the country, where friends maintained close ties with him throughout his life.

He will also be remembered for opening his home and warmly gathering friends, always putting family first, and valuing education as the foundation for a better life. He modeled these values for his children, leaving behind not only cherished memories but also guiding principles that will carry forward through generations.

Kenchanh is survived by his former wife, Vanna Rattana; his children, Arivanh Sengphrachanh, Khanthida Schneider, Brian Rattana, Lathikone Rattana, Heather Phonesavanh Hasner, and Vannivong Rattana; his 13 cherished grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by the many cousins, nieces, and nephews he helped raise in the United States, as well as numerous extended family members and friends who held him in great affection.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thitla and Onekeo Rattana, and his four siblings.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Kenchanh’s life will be held on October 4, 2025 at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and pay tribute to a life well lived.

Kenchanh’s legacy of love, resilience, and the values he lived by will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

From the children of Kenchanh: In place of flowers, we would be truly grateful for memorial contributions in honor of our dad. Contributions may be sent to his daughter, Heather Hasner, through Zelle ([email protected]) or by check (please note “Kenchanh Rattana Memorial” in the memo), payable to Heather Hasner and mailed to 737 Butlers Gate NE, Marietta, GA 30068. Thank you for surrounding us with your love, prayers, and support as we honor his memory.