Theminh Ha

Theminh Ha was born in Ben Tre, Vietnam to a Chinese merchant family. They immigrated from China to Vietnam to escape communism during the Cultural Revolution. He was studying medicine at university when he was urged by his parents to escape the unstable social political climate of post-war Vietnam.

In the middle of the night, he and his sister Janet boarded a small and overcrowded boat in search of a better life. They endured near death experiences on their journey ending in Malaysia. During the voyage the vessel was attacked by pirates and almost capsized in a violent storm. After enduring eight months in a refugee camp, they were sponsored to travel to San Francisco, California.

Upon arrival in San Francisco, Theminh learned English during the day while working odd jobs at night to support himself and his family. He then began a 25-year career with the San Francisco Department of Public Works. He used his work ethic and ingenuity starting as a street sweeper and ultimately was promoted to Supervisor.

Theminh met his wife, Quynh, in San Francisco through a mutual friend. Both were from different towns in Vietnam, but war and fate brought them together. Theminh was outspoken and the life of the party and Quynh is contrastingly soft spoken and kind. They complemented each other perfectly. They achieved the American dream of buying a home and raising 3 children together-Tina, Diana, and Michael. He instilled in them the values of family, self-sufficiency, empathy, and the power of education. His favorite things in life were spending time with family, socializing, eating, traveling, and listening to music.

Theminh persevered through years of unpredictable ups and downs with advanced prostate cancer. He remained brave, strong, energetic, dignified, and positive until his last days. He never lost his sense of humor and liked to make everyone smile and laugh all the time. He had the unique ability to make everyone feel like they were important and special. He would instantly make friends with strangers at restaurants, in the hospital, stores… Anywhere, really!

Theminh left this world peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. All who loved him dearly will remember Theminh as an unforgettable person with a vibrant and warm personality. He will live on in all our memories as we reflect on the good times and laughter we shared together.

This service is being recorded as a keepsake:

https://www.viewlogies.net/cypress-lawn/6fRxgkpac

The PIN is: 474-925