Saengkham Khattiya

Saengkham Khattiya, 84 passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024 in Des Moines, Iowa. Born April, 12th 1940, in Xayaboury, Laos to Kieu Khattiya (father) and Bounnam Vongsaard (mother). He grew up to be a farmer and later a soldier, ranking as high as a Lt. Colonel. He immigrated to the United States in 1984 with his and four children where they settled in Boston, Massachusetts.

At an early age Saengkham had a love of education and spirituality, a love passed onto his kids and grandkids. Like most people, he loved hanging out with his friends, drinking and enjoying their time. Later in life he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, taking naps and keeping up with current affairs (watching Thai news). One of his favorite things to do with his wife was watch Wheel of Fortune, often smiling and commenting to each when contestants won the grand prize. His smile and laughter were infectious yet mysterious.

He is survived by his wife, Phay Khattiya; children, Bountham Khattiya, Chomseang (TahDevan) Chaialee and Somkith (Phil) Ingram Khattiya; sibling, MaryAnn (Noulek) Kattiya; grandsons, Benjamin and Spencer, granddaughters; Mercedes, Adrienne, Katherina, Madison and Kayson, great grandchildren; Kendall, Max, Elliott and Nyellis. Saengkham was preceded in death by his son; Bounthan Khattiya, daughter in law Cindy Chanh Khattiya.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue, Des Moines, with cremation to follow.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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