In Loving Memory of Vatsana “Vi” Khampong (1983 - 2025)

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Laotian community — along with those in Orange County and the island of Oahu — lost a bright, headstrong, and beautiful soul far too soon with the passing of Vatsana “Vi” Khampong at the age of 41. Surrounded by loved ones, Vi passed after a long, painful yet courageous battle with a series of illnesses and injuries. Her friends and family now turn to the extended community for any donations to help cover the cost of cremation, memorial services, domestic travel for family members, and medical expenses incurred during her final days. Any support you can offer will be a tremendous blessing during this incredibly difficult time. All proceed disbursements will be documented and available for donor viewing.

A Life of Strength, Love, and Adventure

Vi was born on July 13, 1983, in Laos to Vanthala and BouaVanh Khampong. From birth, she was diagnosed with Thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder that limits the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin and causes severe anemia. Treatment was difficult to obtain in Laos, so her family immigrated to the United States in pursuit of better medical care and financial stability. Upon settling in Orange County, as a small child, Vi underwent weekly blood transfusions. Over time, as medicine advanced, she was able to reduce the frequency of her infusions to once a month.

Despite the challenges of her condition, Vi lived a vibrant and full life, fiercely loyal and protective of her wide circle of family and friends. She was vivacious and stunningly beautiful—inside and out. Her humility, kindness, and empathy left an impression on everyone she met.

Vi studied education at Irvine Valley College and once aspired to become a teacher. Though life took her in different directions, she had an encyclopedic knowledge of the subjects she loved, especially culinary arts and botany. She could identify nearly any plant or tree and share its origins with joy and passion.

Vi eventually moved from Orange County to Honolulu, Hawaii, drawn by the island’s beauty, its laid-back lifestyle, and friendly sense of community. Her warm, outgoing persona led her to become a valued part of Honolulu’s nightlife scene, working as a beloved bartender and cherished friend to many patrons.

Vi became a tattoo aficionado, overtime adding multiple colorful and meaningful pieces to her tiny canvas. Through this love, she met Adam Khampong, a well-known local tattoo artist with his own shop who she would go on to marry. The two shared a deep meaningful love for one another and for this form of art.

By day, Vi hiked, cooked, explored beaches, and shared meals with loved ones. Her passion for food led her on many culinary adventures—from carrying the spiciest peppers of her own to restaurants or climbing trees for the freshest ingredients to craft her beloved Laotian dishes.

A Tragic Turn: The Injuries That Changed Everything

In 2019, one such adventure led to tragedy. While picking mangos for her beloved traditional mango salad, Vi sustained a significant fall from a tree, suffering multiple fractures and internal bleeding. Her recovery, made even more difficult by her underlying condition, was long and excruciating. The aftermath of this trauma, combined with delays in care and harsh medications, left her organs severely weakened.

In 2023, Vi was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, an enlarged spleen, coupled by a weakened liver and kidneys. Her already fragile and petite body began to deteriorate rapidly losing weight she could not afford to lose. Though stem cell therapy could have offered hope, her deteriorating health and financial barriers made her ineligible for treatment.

The final incident occurred in February 2025 when Vi slipped in the shower, shattering her pelvis and femur. For anyone already in such a fragile state of health, these injuries often prove to be catastrophic and Vi’s case was devastatingly no exception. At only 41 years of age, Vi was confined to a nursing home unable to walk or care for herself, suffering from unbearable pain followed by the steady failure of each of her major organs.

On April 26, 2025, she finally found peace, surrounded by her family and friends, and leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and unforgettable spirit.

She is survived by her husband Adam Khampong, her step-son Andrew Siehr, her brother Ozone Khampong and parents Vanthala and BouaVanh Khampong.

Honoring Vi’s Memory with Traditional Laotian Buddhist Rites

Traditional Laotian Buddhist funeral services will begin on May 5 at the family residence in Santa Ana, California. Services will include monastic chanting, a four-day home vigil, and a memorial service on May 11, followed by ongoing offerings and ceremonies in the months ahead. Donations will allow Vi’s family to honor her life in accordance with these sacred traditions and provide her with the respectful and meaningful farewell she deserves.

How You Can Help

Rest in Peace and A Hui Hou, Our Beloved Vi

Your light, strength, and love will never be forgotten.

Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and support.