It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Vanh Chanthaminavong, who departed this life on July 24, 2023. Born in Paksane, Laos on January 15, 1939, to Ha and Bounmi Chanthaminavong, Vanh lived a life filled with deep connections to his family and friends.

 Vanh was preeceded in death by his brothers, Boune Chanthaminavong and Nuphan Chanthaminavong, as well as his sister, Sengchan Chanthaminavong. 

Vanh is survived by his wife, Kingkeo Chanthaminavong, daughters Thidavanh Moukdahan, Thidavone Chanthaminavong,  son Souksakhone Chanthaminavong, his granddaughters Lily (Souvahnaly) Moukdahan, Nino (Souriluk) Moukdahan Gutierrez, Ngai (Soupaphanh) Moukdahan, Kai (Manivone) Sayasone, Sounally Chanthaminavong Clayton, Anysa Chanthaminavong Allen, and Ryan Vahnnoi Chanthaminavong his grandson.

Vanh's example of sacrifice and service have been priceless in shaping the lives of his children.  He will be remembered at a celebration of life service to be held on July 29, 2023, at 10:30 AM. The service will take place at 1111 S. Cole Rd. Boise, Idaho.

Vanh was born in Paksane, Laos.  Because of his very high intelligence, was sent to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos to attend school at a very young age of 10.  He was only able to come home during breaks. In 1957 he did mandatory service in the Laotian army.  Later, he was sent outside of the country to continue his education in Vietnam, funded by the United Nations. He studied programming when computers were initially adopted as part of businesses, using punch cards.  He also excelled in the field of statistics and later became the Secretary of Transportation of the country.  During the Vietnam war era, America used Laos to restock and refuel the planes and recruited many Laotians to assist with the war efforts. When the communist's occupation trickled into Laos, Vanh and his family had to escape the country, with only one day's notice, because those who worked for the former royal government were deemed enemies.  He and his family endured jail and three refugee camps, living well below poverty with many other refugees in Nongkai, Thailand Refugee Camps in 1977.   He and his family were sponsored by his cousin who preceded him to America.  With 25 Baht in Thai money, equivalent to one US dollar and cardboard boxes as luggage, Vanh and his family of five planted their roots in Twin Falls, Idaho in November 21, 1979.  He and his wife moved to Boise, ID in 2019 to be close to family. 

In honoring the memory of Vanh Chanthaminavong, we remember his enduring spirit, his sacrifice, and love for his family, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire, guide, and comfort his loved ones.

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