Gary Ou

Gary Ou was born to humble beginnings on January 5th, 1943 in Koh Thom, Kandal, Cambodia. He left behind a life of farming with his parents to seek education in a buddhist temple. Against all odds, he obtained a degree in French, became a French and math teacher, and a director of French curriculum. These achievements were rare for a man of his background and were a direct result of his passion for education.
Gary's ingenuity, courage, and selflessness, were especially evident during the Cambodian genocide, as he kept his family alive through unimaginable challenges. After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, instead of seeking comfort in his home village as many others did, Gary brought his family to Thailand with hopes of securing a future in America. In doing so, he once again left his parents behind, prioritizing his children's access to quality education and opportunities for successful careers.
After settling in Rochester, Minnesota, Gary set an example for his children by continuing his own education, getting a degree as an electronic technician and a second degree in jewelry making. His accomplishments allowed him to become a tutor to Khmer refugee students, an electronic technician at IBM, and the proud owner of a jewelry store. Gary's jewelry store became more than a business-it was a gathering place where many people came seeking his advice, guidance, and wisdom; it's no wonder they referred to him as "lok kru" (teacher or wiseman). His drive to obtain education is a legacy that is passed on to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In 2004, Gary and Kim moved to Port St. Lucie, Florida where they owned a farm, raised cows, and fed their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren with home grown fruits. For over 20 years they lived in Florida enjoying visits from loved ones until Gary Ou passed away on January 18th, 2025, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Kim Ou; 6 children and their spouses, Yanara (Sokly), Narith (Chhomran), Nimol, Tola Ou-Quinlan (Brent Quinlan), Mesa (Kim), and Ossaphea (Saly Leakna Chea); 10 grandkids, Alex, Andy, Anthony, Panya Khourn, Seyla, Bella, Jasmine Quinlan, Kyllian Quinlan, Tavary Un, and Alicia; 8 great grandkids, Alijah, Carlee, Isaac, Elliot, Cloud, Camryn, Amelia, and Carter.
Services will be held on Friday January 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 1454 SW Mapp Rd. Palm City, FL 34990. Visitation will be held from 11:30-2:00 pm at Forest Hills Memorial Park & Palm CIty Chapel, 2001 SW Murphy Rd. Palm City, FL 34990, followed by the burial at 2:30 pm.
Gary would always ask to go home. We now let you go freely and hope that God will welcome you home in His warm embrace. We love and miss you and will meet again soon.