Bounthanh Macvilay

Bounthanh Macvilay, aged 89, peacefully passed away in his sleep on August 15, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 14, 1935, in the Khammouane Province of Laos and raised in Paksan, Laos as the cherished son of Van Duong and Thi La.

Bounthanh was a dedicated entrepreneur in Paksan, Laos, where he successfully operated a transportation company. He married Chantha Lo, and together they raised six wonderful children. Following the Vietnam War in 1975, the family embarked on a new journey, relocating to New Providence, Iowa, where Bounthanh began a new chapter as an upholsterer. In 1978, they moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where he took on a position in the kitchen of Mercy Hospital. Des Moines became his home for the remainder of his life, while occasionally spending summers with his family in Madison, Wisconsin.

In his prime, Bounthanh found joy in the simple pleasures of life—leisurely walks, hunting, fishing, and savoring a hearty steak paired with red wine. Yet, his greatest treasure was the time spent with his family. His infectious laugh and warm smile created an atmosphere brimming with love and joy, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. As a devoted grandfather, he showered his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with affection, often delighting them with home-cooked meals and attentive care. His nurturing spirit and wisdom created cherished memories that will resonate for generations to come.

He is preceded in death by his father, Van Duong; his mother Thi La; and his beloved wife, Chantha Lo. He is survived by his six children: Khamduene Macvilay (Malayphone), Khen Macvilay (Sinarack), Sengkham Inrachavongsa (Kham), Dala Chen (Sengsouri), Thiloune Sackpraseuth (Mi), and Joy Meksay (Ou). Bounthanh’s legacy continues through his 21 grandchildren: Sky, Scottie, Michelle, Khenny, Champ, Arya, Lukey, Andrew, Preston, Nicholas, Matthew, Yoyo, Donny, Kevin, Lilliana, Nathan, Mason, Jaxton, Jasmine, Jameson, and Jiana, as well as four great-grandchildren: Chace, Everly, Chandler, and Ellody, who carry forward the love he imparted throughout his life.

Bounthanh Macvilay’s spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him, reminding us to cherish our loved ones and embrace life with open hearts. His legacy will forever shine brightly in the hearts of his family and friends, a testament to a life well-lived and a love that endures.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 22, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Following his interment at Glendale Cemetery, there will be an Open House Celebration with food and drinks at 2903 Deerpath Ct. in Des Moines.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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