Mr. So Sourakakone

UTICA - Mr. So Sourakakone, age 89, passed away as his soul descended from his body on Sunday, January 28, 2018. His passing occurred at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Champasak, Laos on December 16, 1928, So was the son of the late Pim and Gong (Phalaphanh) Sourakakone. He graduated from high school and continued his education in college majoring in Business Administration. So fell in love with and married the former Thou Keodundy. She gave birth to five children but tragically passed away when they were still very young. The babies were blessed to be taken in and raised by their grandma, aunts, and uncles. So worked as a border policeman in his homeland and immigrated to the United States in the 1980’s settling in Binghamton where he accepted a job with a cable company. So was a selfless, humble man, and although his affection was not demonstrable, he gave his love in so many other ways. He was a family man, a good provider, and always saw to his family’s needs. His persona was that of a happy man, and many emotions were expressed through his eyes. He was entertaining, and he had a heart of gold. He enjoyed Monday night SmackDown Wrestling, Lakers Basketball, and boxing. He loved working the soil and planting a vegetable garden. Peppers were his passion, especially fiercely hot small chili peppers! He harvested the seeds from the mature plants and cultivated them from season to season. He embraced the traditions and beliefs of Buddhism, and the positive qualities of joy and compassion. He attended Temple functions and prayed to Buddha for blessings. So honored his Asian heritage, adhered to his ancestral traditions,… and lived each day as if it were his last. So is survived by his children, Dr. Vieng Sourakakone, Somsack Sourakakone who preceded him in 1989, Somphong Kaychitch, Chanpheng “Kak” Sourakakone and her husband Suutran, Meng Sourakakone, and Khamseng Sourakakone; and his 10 grandchildren including those who live locally, Alex, Noah, and twins Amaya and Nadiya, as well as additional grandchildren who live in Laos. He also leaves his siblings, Kanya Sourakakone, Buathong Sourakakone, Thong Khiamdavanah, Bua Phalaphanh, Outhai Phalaphanh, and Vilay Phalaphanh; and his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. The family was blessed with the love and guidance of Marie Lee who was also a remarkable caregiver to So and a motherly and grandmotherly figure to the family. The family is grateful to Dr. Gordon Fung, Dr. Sultana Razia and her staff, the personnel of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, and the staff of the Senior Health Care Network; all were kind and understanding throughout a difficult time. Gratitude is also extended to his son-in-law, Suu Tran who respected So as his own father and cared for him with compassion; as well as Suu’s family, Nouy and Monica Souriyavongsa for their concern. Through the network of family and good friends, So was well cared for and truly blessed. They never left his side. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A Buddhist Farewell Ceremony will commence on Saturday morning at 8:30 at the funeral home and will conclude at the Chenango Valley Crematorium.

Mr. So Sourakakone

December 16, 1928 - January 28, 2018