Touch Leam

Mr. Touch Leam, age 51, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, June 9, 2012 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side, after a courageous battle with liver cancer. Born in Battambong, Cambodia on May 1, 1961, Touch was the son of Tung Chai and the late Neou Leam. As a teenager, Touch left Cambodia for Thailand due to war, and then traveled to the United States with missionaries in 1984. He settled in Texas and later moved to Massachusetts to reunite with a friend. Shortly after, on August 30, 1986, he wed On Heang in a traditional Cambodian marriage celebration; Touch and On shared 25 years in a beautiful union. They truly lived their vows, did everything together, and were supportive to one another’s needs, especially through sickness and health. They never seemed to argue, and their mutual kindness and love guided them through all their days together. They were blessed with two daughters. In 2007 Touch moved his family to Utica for greater opportunities. At one time, he worked at Falvo’s Manufacturing as a carpenter. Touch was a man who had a serious demeanor, but a heart of kindness and great concern for his family. He ensured their well-being, success, and safety. He was talented at fixing things and enjoyed his Craftsmen power tools while teaching his daughter the “how-to’s”. Touch could also be found enjoying video games, where “Call of Duty” was his forte. He also kept up with current events and world affairs. He possessed a deep spirituality, respecting all faiths. Touch is survived by his wife, On Leam of Utica; his mother, Tung Chai of Cambodia; and his daughters, Sovanneary Brenda Neou, and Sophia Leam, both of Utica. He also leaves his brothers and sisters in Cambodia; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and best friend from his teenage years, Rom Yath. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend visitation and Bung Sko ceremony for Touch which will be held on Tuesday from 11:00-1:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Final ceremonies will follow at Chenango Valley Crematorium.

Touch Leam

May 1, 1961 - June 9, 2012