Chhen H. Thea

Chhen H. Thea, of Waltham, died Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Newton-Wellesley Hospital following a period of complications to his health. He was 75. 

Chhen was born in China on September 29, 1949 a son of the late Soi Mae Thea and Hoa Thea and eventually moved with his family to Cambodia. After the loss of his family, Chhen Thea and his remaining son, Meng Hout Thea, escaped the murderous rampage of the Pol Pot regime that came to be known as the Cambodian Genocide.

Following his escape from Cambodia he met and married Muy Be Thea and their family grew with the addition of two girls, Meng and Susan. The family settled in Waltham where they have been longtime residents.

Chhen was known for his dedicated work ethic to provide for his family. For most of his life he worked two full-time jobs as a cook at Toscano Restaurant in Beacon Hill and at The Hyatt in Cambridge for more than 30 years.

Family and friends will honor and remember Chhen’s life by gathering for a Morning Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on Wednesday, April 2nd beginning at 10 a.m. followed by his Funeral Service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.