John Chan Ung

John Chan Ung, age 69, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. He was born on September 10, 1955, in Xiangkhouang, Laos, to Cheuang and Linn (Tham) Ung.

John was a man of deep warmth, quiet strength, and joyful generosity. John had a deep love for food—not just eating it, but sharing it. He enjoyed watching cooking shows and was always inviting family over to share a meal, turning simple gatherings into cherished memories. John found his calling in the kitchen from a young age, where a deep love for cooking quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion. That passion guided him into a fulfilling career as a chef, culminating in the proud achievement of owning and operating his own restaurant. To John, the kitchen was never just a workplace—it was a place of warmth, creativity, and connection. With every dish he crafted, he welcomed customers as family and shared meals that offered comfort and joy to all. Known for his warm smile, strong work ethic, and generous spirit, John built lasting relationships with his staff, customers, and the community. Even after selling his beloved restaurant, John continued to share his culinary talents as the head chef and manager at Chinese Express within Hy-Vee stores. There, too, he remained a steady and beloved presence, always giving his best and treating others with kindness and respect. John’s food told a story—one of love, dedication, and pride—and those who knew him will remember how deeply he cared about every plate he served and every person he met. John’s legacy lives on not only in the meals he made, but in the memories he created around the table—with family, friends, and the countless lives he enriched through his generous heart.

John had a playful side too, often spending time at the casino, and whenever he won, his joy was in sharing those prizes with his loved ones. He was a lover of travel and new experiences, John was always up for a vacation. He found peace in fishing and joy in passing on his rich cultural heritage. John proudly educated his family on the traditions and lifestyles of his Chinese, Tai Dam, Vietnamese and Laos roots, ensuring they remained alive and appreciated across generations.

John took nothing for granted in life. Whether at his best or his lowest, he reminded those around him that nothing lasts forever and that every second in life counts. His legacy is one of gratitude, love, and living fully. He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

John is survived by his wife, Nongkane; his children, Katie Ung, Allen (Keola) Ung, Jennifer (Rocky) Hiracheta, Christy Ung, Michael Ung, and Carter Ung; his grandchildren, Anfernee, Valerie, Sumaiah, Peyton, Jayden, Nekayla, Myah, Zayden, Anthony, Asia, Dahranie, Roc, and Kato; his great-grandchildren; his siblings, Sina (Lac) Ung Baccam, Heng Ung, Hong (Maryann) Ung, Seng (Dalica) Ung, Fong Ung, Leng Ung, Wa (Dep) Ung, Hung (Sou) Ung, Kheng (Ott) Ung, and Nam (Lisa) Ung; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

John was preceded in death by his parents.

Family will be greeting friends from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens; 121 NW 60th Avenue, Des Moines. Funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Following services, John will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery; 4909 University Avenue, Des Moines. Family would like to invite guests to join them for a luncheon following burial at Huan Dee (Good House); 215 Kirkwood Avenue, Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to family.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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