Khouaker Xiong

Khoua Ker Xiong, 96 passed away from pneumonia on Friday March 14, 2014 in his Spokane Valley home with his family by his side. Khoua was born on June 13, 1917 in Houaphan Province of Laos to proud parents Fav Tswb Xyooj and Paj Yaj. He was the fourth oldest of nine children; five sons and four girls. He met and married his wife, Mee Yang in September of 1949. In 1962 he joined the Hmong Secret Army fighting alongside the United States in the Vietnam War. In 1978 he left his home and village, leading men, woman, and children to safety. In 1980 he immigrated to the United States leaving his loved ones behind. Being a dedicated and compassionate family man he dreamed of and was determined to migrate his remaining family to the US. With steadfast conviction he was able to eventually bring over his remaining nieces, nephews, two younger brothers, sister, and their families. For the past 34 years amid family and friends he has made Spokane Washington his home. He spent much of those years farming, traveling, and most prominent of all giving to the Hmong community. He was a respected Shaman and Elder. He served as a role model and was always willing to help those in need of spiritual and physical healing. His grandchildren will always remember him as kind, loving, and nurturing. He was a pillar of influence in the early and important years of their lives. Khoua Ker is survived by his three children; ZaToua Xiong, of Spokane Valley, WA; Ge Xiong of Fresno, CA; and Shao Xiong Lor of Pineville, MO. He is also survived by nineteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.