Vinh Thanh Ngo

Vinh Ngo passed away on May 27, 2025. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Lan; his children Mindy and her husband Jimmy, Phat, Lynn, Cindy and her husband Tony, Yen and her husband Ted, Tai and his wife Saki; and eight grandchildren.

Born in Nha Trang, Vietnam, in 1939, Vinh was the eldest of six siblings in a humble family. From the age of 11, he began working to support his parents and younger siblings. Although he loved school, family duty always came first.

Vinh was an artist and tradesman. During the Vietnam War, he served with courage in the South Vietnamese Army infantry, enduring the trauma and hardship of combat. After the fall of Saigon, and with no future left under the new regime, he and his wife made the brave decision to flee Vietnam. First sending their eldest daughter ahead with her aunt, and in a few short years after they followed with their children.

Their journey to freedom was harrowing: the family escaped by boat, were confronted by pirates, and narrowly survived a confrontation with Chinese soldiers off Hainan Island. After days adrift, they were rescued by the Hong Kong coast guard and spent time in a refugee camp before being sponsored into the United States with the help of his younger brother, Raymond.

Settling in Los Angeles, California, Vinh worked tirelessly as a handyman and signwriter. He never sought recognition, only the opportunity to build a better life for his family. He gave everything he had to ensure they had food, clothing, shelter, and a moral foundation.

He is remembered as strong-willed, smart, incredibly hard-working, and having a quirky sense of humor. He found joy in simple things: watching Lakers games, movies, and cooking large batches of French fries or buttered toast with sugar when times were lean. He was always fixing something, whether around the house or in the community he helped manage for years.

His greatest legacy is not found in material things but in the quiet strength, resilience, and opportunity he passed on to his children. He endured much, asked for little, and gave everything.

Vinh was not perfect, but he was good. He was a loving provider and protector.

A funeral service for Vinh will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hua Yuan - Hall of Grace, 3890 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601.

Vinh will be laid to rest in Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, CA 90601; Terrace of Our Lady; Gate: 1, Section: 5, Lot: 2014, Grave: 4.