Kieu Van Nguyen

His keen eye, innate curiosity, and love for nature eventually led him to Nong Lam Suc College, where he received a Masters in Forestry. Upon completion, he was entrusted with the prestigious job of overseeing vast and ancient forests all over the country.

Kieu's love for what he did was evident whenever he spoke of his past. Hearing him talk, you might find yourself steeped in his passion for planning and experimenting with plants, contemplating new ways to cross-breed and transform them into new little gems. This man could literally be your cup of tea.

During the 19 years of the War in Việt Nam, he fought for his Country's freedom as he rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant in the South Vietnamese army. The discipline he developed during this time was apparent in his own household. As a stern father, he maintained a rigorous environment which paved the way for seven headstrong, determined, and free-willed children. They went on to raise eight kids of their own.

In 1995, knowing little English and possessing even less money, Kieu left Vietnam to bring the love of his life, Vy, and their children to the United States for a shot at the American dream. Determined by sheer grit and will, he used every ounce of himself to build a better life for his family.

Looking at the family he built, it’s clear that he not only succeeded but surpassed all expectations for everyone has grown strong and is thriving, each in their own way. In addition to an unbreakable familial bond, Kieu is leaving his children with a core understanding that they will always be stronger together than they are apart. His legacy will live on through Hung Nhat, Tam Hanh, Dieu Tram, Dan Tuyen, Tan Tri, Truong Phat, and Vinh Truyen.

Even through his years battling many health issues, Kieu never forgot to live and to laugh. You couldn’t help but smile back when his face lit up every time you walked through the door, every holiday you visited, or social gathering you attended.

He also leaves behind this legacy of love and laughter to eight grandchildren: Crystal, Sandra, George, Davonn, Denzel, Thomas, Ellie, and Alexander. They will remember their grandfather as the man who always brought their gang of cousins together to show them that while each of us is an individual, we also exist in unison as all great families should.

If Kieu were here with us today and he was asked to name his greatest accomplishment, he would smile and put his arms around his wife and he would tell you that there may be seven wonders around the world, but the seven wonders of his world are all here with him, his children.

Our family respectfully asks that donations be made to The Nguyen Estate in lieu of flowers. Kieu’s funeral visiting hours will begin at the Forest Lawn Funeral Home on January 25th- 27th between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. The burial service will start at 6:00 am on January 27th, 2021. The ceremony will continue immediately after at 10:30 am at the Riverton Crest Cemetery (3400 S 140th St. Tukwila, WA).

We also want to send our sincere gratitude to the staff at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for the compassionate care they provided Kieu during his stay.

“The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.”