Xay Vang

Xay Vang was born on January 7, 1976. He bravely escaped the communist soldiers by crossing the Mekong River, the border between Laos and Thailand, then swam the ocean to get America. Just kidding! That was the story that Xay told many of his American friends growing up; and surprisingly some people believed it! That is just one example and a testament of his sense of humor.

Our sweet Xay was born to Chouseng and Tru Mua Vang in Nong Khai refugee camp in Thailand. His family was sponsored by St Matthew Lutheran Church in Indianapolis, IN and arrived in the United States (via plane) on October 1976.

He departed from this life on September 16, 2020. Xay is survived by his father, Chou Seng Vang; wife, Linda Vang; brother Tou Vang (Eileen); sisters: Hua Dodson, Xeng Karns, and Joy Yang (Friendship); and his sweet Chihuahua, Baby Bear. He is preceded in death by his mother, Tru Vang; sister, Pankouchi Vang; brother-in-law, Don Dodson; and Chihuahuas: Shadow and LaLa.

He graduated from Sun Prairie High School and went on to receive his Associate’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy from Ivy Tech Community College, graduating in 2003.   After several years of working as a respiratory therapist he transitioned to a career as a sleep lab technician, most recently working at IU Health Saxony Hospital in Fishers.

Xay married his best friend Linda Her on January 1st, 2006.  The two went on to build a life of loving others generously.  Linda not only lost a husband and a soulmate, but her sidekick photography assistant.   Xay was always assisting Linda at photoshoots, carrying her equipment and cheering her on. Linda said Xay went because he wanted to “protect” her, but she knew he really just wanted to spend time with her.  Even if Xay worked a night shift, he would still go with Linda just so they can be together.

He loved fishing, sports, and music; his favorite artists being Switchfoot and Taylor Swift. He was known for his easy-going nature, his silly sense of humor, and his ability to capture top prizes at state fairs. He leaves behind a plethora of stuffed animals for future winners of the Hoop Shot at the Indiana State Fair.   He was a favorite and beloved uncle of his nieces and nephews. He was a funny, friendly, generous soul whom many affectionately called Pooh Bear.

Xay will be deeply missed.