An Quang Duong

An Quang Duong, 92, peacefully departed this world on Sunday, October 27, 2024 — but not before casting his Presidential ballot. Like Jimmy Carter, he knew timing was everything. He leaves behind his beloved and adored wife, Dinh Bach Thuoc, his two children, Duong Quang Lam & Lu, his grandchild, Duong Quang Dinh Hoang; and a daughter-in-law, Madeline Krahn, who have been endlessly entertained (and sometimes a little exasperated) by his tales of life, love, and his unwavering belief that everything is just better in France.

Born as one of 12 children to Duong Quang Huan and Le Thi Le in Phan Thiet, Vietnam, An grew up in a lively, large family. He is survived by his remaining siblings, Duong Hong Loan, Duong Bach Yen, Duong Kim Phuong, Duong Xuan Mai, Duong Quang Hao, and Duong Quang Bien, who will surely carry his legacy forward (and, hopefully, continue to enjoy the medicinal benefits of Salonpas and Bengay menthol ointment as much as he did).

An’s love affair with France began in Lyon, where he graduated with a degree in chemical textiles and, most importantly, developed a refined taste for all things French. His children endured years of lectures about why “real bread” only exists in France, how “wine should be savored, not gulped” (even though he never drank alcohol), and the mysterious superiority of the French language, which he could discuss for hours — and did.

Alongside his wife, An was also an accomplished restaurateur. His establishment, Vietnam Georgetown Restaurant, became a welcoming place that sponsored dozens of family members from Vietnam to America. It also served dignitaries, including multiple U.S. Presidents, senators, and ambassadors. However, a particular favorite moment was when the “Material Girl” herself, Madonna, dined at the restaurant.

An loved running, especially early morning runs on beautiful trails. He completed over 15 marathons, with his proudest achievement being his Boston Marathon qualification at age 63, with a time of 3 hours and 33 minutes. He never missed an opportunity to remind his youngest son that he was always faster than him. And to drag every reluctant extended family member along for an “easy 5k” that was never “just an easy 5k”.

His family will remember An for his humor, endearing compassion, “healthy” green juices, and his ability to turn the simplest moments into grand tales. And though he may be gone, his legacy lives on in every slightly burnt baguette, warm embrace, and, hopefully, a winning Washington Commanders football season.