Sitha Inthirathvongsy's Obituary
Sitha Inthirathvongsy, known by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as EPaw, passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on Tuesday, May 20, 2024. Mr. Inthirathvongsy was born on January 15, 1941 in Houy Saipai, Borikhamxai Province. His parents were Janpawh Sisangkhom and Khampoon Nakasen. He had an older brother (preceded by death) Bouapha Sisangkhom. He started school at a very late age and entered first grade at the age of 15. Despite challenges, he attended Dong Dok University and graduated with a Master’s Degree in education. He taught first grade for 27 years. He loved being a teacher and was well respected by all his students and the community. They affectionally called him Naikhoo Sitha, which is Teacher Sitha. Mr. Sitha married Chanh Inthirathvongsy on June 30, 1961. Together they made a home in Ban Thouei with their six children. Life in the village was not easy and became increasingly difficult. Both wanted a better life and future for their children. They immigrated to the United States with their five children, leaving their eldest daughter, Souvanmaly, who did not want to leave. They settled in Central Florida and made Deltona their permanent home. Acclimating to a new culture and learning a new language were difficult but Mr. Sitha never gave up. He worked two jobs to provide for his family and instilled good values and work ethic in his children. He learned English at the local community college and eventually became a mechanic. His love for teaching never once waned even though he never returned to that profession. To carry on his passion for teaching, two of his children are educators.
Mr. Inthirathvongsy is survived by his daughters and son-in-laws, Souvanmaly and Keung Inthivong of Ban Thouei, Laos; Phetmany and Kee Inthachack of Deltona, FL; Phongeune (Po) and Stephen Dickison of Orlando, FL; her sons and daughter-in-law, Phothong Inthirathvongsy of Sacramento, CA; Rattana and Angela Inthirathvongsy of Acworth, GA; and Vanitha Inthirathvongsy (preceded in death).
His legacy and memories live on in his 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
A traditional Lao funeral will take place on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 2:00PM at Baldauff Family Funeral Home and Crematory at 1233 Saxon Blvd, Orange City, FL 32763.
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