An Van Thai

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Thái Văn Ân, who departed from our lives on January 30, 2024, at the age of 91. He passed away peacefully after 2 years of battling chronic kidney disease. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence touched the lives of many. Thái Văn Ân leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years: Nguyễn Thị Sáu; children: Thái Quang Trường, Thái Quang Tuyến, Thái Quang Minh, Thái Quang Bình, Thái Thị Hồng Ngọc; daughters-in-law: Hồ Michelle, Thái Ngọc Trinh, Trần Anh Thư, Đặng Thị Hiền; son-in-law: Thanasi Michael Mantas; grandchildren: Steven Thái, Sandra Vy Thái, Kristy Nghi Thái, Jadon Thông Thái, Jarred Trí Thái, Jason Thái, Kimberly Thái, Nicholas Văn Mantas, Natalie Ân Mantas, who will carry forward his legacy with pride and reverence.

Born on December 31, 1932, Thái Văn Ân lived a life filled with love, laughter, and kindness. His youth was marked by tumult and conflict, his journey was one defined by service and sacrifice. He served his country for 24 years - he first enrolled in the First Indochina War, he later served as a police officer and then worked as a decoder in the United States CIA Phoenix Program (Chiến dịch Phụng Hoàng) until the program was terminated in December 1972. It was during working for this program where he met his wife and they started their family. After the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, he was arrested at home in the presence of his family & taken away to Re-education camp for 5 years. After enduring years of hardship, he was eventually released from Re-education camp in 1980. With newfound freedom, he was determined to provide a better life for his family, so he made the courageous decision to move his family from the homeland and have a fresh start.

Yet, amidst the trials of war, he carried within him a deep love for life and the simple joys. Even miles away from home in a new country, he found solace in cultivating a passion for gardening which blossomed into a labor of love. He was able to recreate the memory of his homeland by growing fruits and vegetables that were native to Vietnam. With meticulous care, he planted jujube and persimmon trees, dragonfruit, winter melon, bitter melon, kabocha, and many more. His garden fed not only his family but his community as well, as he often shared the fruits of his labor. In many ways, he tended to his garden just like he did his family, and that was always with such patience and care, which is a testament to the enduring power of love, tradition, and devotion.

Though he may no longer be with us in person, his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to all who have shown kindness, support, and compassion during this difficult time.

A celebration of Thái Văn Ân's life will be held at Laurel Land Funeral Home in Fort Worth, TX on Friday February 9, 2024 at 10 am.

In lieu of gifts, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Kidney Fund.

May he rest in eternal peace, knowing his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us.

With love and remembrance,

The Thái Family