Kim Thi Ngoc Tran

July 5, 1933 – March 20, 2025

Rosa Kim Ngoc Tran was born on July 5, 1933, in the historic town of Tra Kieu, Quang Nam, Vietnam—a place rich in Catholic tradition and spiritual devotion, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to protect the faithful during the persecution of Catholics in the Van Than Movement. On March 20, 2025, she passed away peacefully in Seattle, Washington, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith.

Kim was the beloved wife of Dieu Trong Nguyen and a devoted mother to eight children. She was also a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, deeply cherished by her growing family. Her life was defined by quiet resilience, boundless love, and a selfless dedication to those she held dear.

At the age of 18, Kim married Lieutenant Dieu Trong Nguyen, beginning a life of partnership built on mutual support and sacrifice. Their bond was tested early when her husband, then serving as District Commander of Binh Dinh, was critically injured during a military operation. Kim became his steadfast caregiver, dividing her time between Saigon, Da Nang, and Tra Kieu, all while raising their five young children. Her tireless devotion was instrumental in his recovery and the strength of their family.

In time, they welcomed three more children, raising all eight amidst the growing challenges of war with unwavering hope and love. When the Vietnam War came to a close in 1975, Kim and her family made the courageous decision to leave their homeland and begin anew in the United States.

Starting over in a new country was not easy, but Kim met each challenge with grace. She worked diligently—from sewing to preparing and selling traditional Vietnamese dishes to support her family. Every effort Kim made was rooted in the desire to provide her children with opportunities she never had. The sacrifices she made paved the way for her children’s education and success.

In 1980, at just 47 years old, Kim faced another deep loss when her husband passed away. With her youngest child, only ten, she became both mother and father, guiding her children with quiet strength and fierce love. Thanks to her perseverance and guidance, all eight children grew into accomplished adults—a living testament to her devotion.

Surrounded by 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, Kim’s home became the heart of the family—especially during weekly dinners filled with laughter, storytelling, and togetherness.

Rosa Kim Ngoc Tran lived a life of purpose, grounded in faith, sacrifice, and enduring love. Her legacy of courage and compassion continues through the lives of the family she built and nurtured.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Tony Hoang (Maria Phuong), Theresa Thanh (Thomas Tham), Tung, Mai (Thang), Dominic Linh (Donna Hong), Son (Vicky), Mitchell (Yen), and Thuy (David); along with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her siblings: Bien (sister-in-law), Lan (sister-in-law), Sister Saint Jean Anh (sister), Nam (brother), Lan (sister); and their extended families.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing and prayer service on Wednesday April 2, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Evergreen Washelli, 11111 Aurora Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98133.

A Funeral Mass on Thursday April 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1240 NE 127th St., Seattle, WA 98125. Interment is at 1:00 p.m. at Holyrood Cemetery, 205 NE 205th St., Shoreline, WA 98155.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in her memory. Please pray for the repose of Rosa Kim’s soul and keep her family in your prayers.