Red Bud, Illinois
1943 - 2016
Meechai Puntumabumrung
Dr. Meechai Puntumabumrung, 72, of Red Bud, Ill., passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his family and friends, Monday, June 13, 2016.
Dr. Meechai was born October 17, 1943, at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. He was raised in Bangkok, and graduated from Bangkok Christian College and Triam Udom Suksa School (Class 22). He graduated from the prestigious Chiang Mai University Faculty of Medicine (Class 4) in 1967.
Dr. Meechai met Romjit Siriaksorn while the two were attending Chiang Mai University. After completing their studies and marrying, the couple moved to the United States in order for Dr. Meechai to complete his residency in Internal Medicine at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, Ill. He was certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in 1973. In addition, he studied at Wayne State University in Michigan, and attained a specialty in Oncology. After receiving an invitation from Dr. Pichet Santilukka, Dr. Meechai moved his family to Red Bud, Ill., in 1977 to begin what would be a lifetime partnership with Dr. Pichet Santilukka, and lifetime love for the people in Red Bud, Waterloo, and surrounding communities. Dr. Meechai also served as Chairman of the Thai Physicians Association of America- Midwest Chapter from 1989-1990.
Dr. Meechai was a member and great supporter of North County Country Club. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing golf with friends and family of all ages, especially on Thursdays.
Dr. Meechai was known to his colleagues, residents, nurses and patients as a compassionate, caring physician and was always willing to help. He was known as someone who tried to bring the best out of others. His knowledge and experience helped many to health and happiness. Most importantly, he was regarded as a great family man. He leaves behind many that love him and will miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Sukon and Mrs. Siri Puntumabumrung; his elder brother, Puchong; and younger sister, Wanida.
He was the beloved husband and best friend to Romjit; Father to Ann (Cris) Fabie of Red Bud, Ill., Tony (Sornsawan) Meechai of Bangkok, Thailand, Rosie Meechai of Bangkok, Thailand, and Diane (Jim) Kusumpa of Naperville, Ill.; loving grandfather to Trey, Jack, Aimee, Annika and Emma.
In lieu of flowers, Dr. Meechai requested that memorials be made to an Education Fund for his grandchildren. Condolences may be expressed online at: www.forevermissed.com/dr-meechai-puntumabumrung.
Visitation: A celebration of the life of Dr. Meechai will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 18, 2016, at Koch-Liefer Funeral Home, 220 Locust Street, Red Bud, Ill.
Service: Cremation and Blessing service will be at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 19, 2016, at Schrader Funeral Home, 14960 Manchester Rd., Ballwin, Mo.
KOCH-LIEFER FUNERAL HOME, Red Bud, Ill.
A most amazing physician and good friend, may Doctor Meechai rest in eternal peace. Tom Meirink of Belleville, another dear friend with whom I long associated, and I enjoyed visiting with him when we were in Randolph County years ago. I will never forget Meechai and just recently learned of his passing.
Falsino Rodriguez, MD FRCP (C)
May 21, 2025
He was a very caring and thoughtful Dr taking care of those that needed his help. I will remember his happiness and smile. Prayers are with family and friends.
Dave and Gwen Niehaus
June 16, 2016 | Baldwin, IL
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Charles and Bertie Zipfel
June 15, 2016 | Grayslake, IL
