Neng Thao

Koua Neng Thao was born on August 2nd 1970 in Roob Dub, Laos. He was the first child of Qhua Lis Thoj and Yaj Tswb. Sadly, his father passed away when Koua Neng was little. Under Hmong tradition, son(s) stays with the husband’s family if the widow remarries outside the family. Since his mother remarried outside of the family, he had to leave his mother and only biological sister, Npaub. Qhua Lis Thoj’s only brother, Nao Chao Thao, decided to adopt Koua Neng into his family of eight children and wife, Va Yang.

Soon after the Vietnam war, Koua Neng and his family fled to Chiang Kham Hmong Refugee Camp in Thailand before coming to America in 1991. After arriving in California, he met his wife, Xai Yang and married in 1993. Together, they have eight children, six daughters and two sons.

Koua Neng and his wife decided to settle in Oregon in 1998 to pursue better job opportunities. He worked full-time as a shift lead in the manufacturing industry and dedicated nearly 20 years with Stack Metallurgical Services, Inc.

Koua Neng worked diligently to support and provide for his big family. During his leisure time, he enjoyed many outdoor activities, such as fishing and golfing. Deer hunting season was his favorite time of the year because he got to spend quality time with friends, his son, and being surrounded by nature.

God called Koua Neng home to be with Him on September 13th 2020 at the age of 50. He is survived by his wife, Xai Yang, eight children: Payeng Thao, Yang Thao, Maider Thao, Sheng Thao, Maysee Thao, Cassy Thao, Angela Thao, and Evan Thao. Four sisters and one brother in Laos, three brothers and three sisters in North Carolina, and two sisters in California.

Although Koua Neng was strong willed, he was kindhearted and willing to help others in need. Koua Neng’s generosity and love is forever carved into our hearts and to all those who knew him.