Rhan Rha

Rhan RHA Rhan Rha, 39, of Sammamish, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 11, 2009. Rhani was born in 1970 in Seoul, Korea, where most of her family still resides. The youngest of four siblings, she grew up on an orchard and through her church, developed a deep Christian faith. Rhani cultivated her love for teaching and children as she taught Sunday school and children's camp every year. She earned a bachelor's degree in music plus an associate degree in fashion coordination from the Seoul Women's University. Rhani moved to the United States in 1996 to start a family. She absolutely cherished her son Noah, ensuring that he learned Korean and piano while also encouraging him in his favorite sport, baseball. While here, Rhani used her love for children and teaching to establish a successful business as a community piano teacher. She reveled in the joy of learning, believing that success in learning and education was important to a child's confidence, personal development, and growth. Rhani loved to reach out and connect with the students, helping them learn to be comfortable and to embrace their unique and special qualities. She called her students her "angels," and so enjoyed watching each child she taught blossom and grow. A devoted member of her church, Rhani finished each week by providing the piano accompaniment at Sunday services. She lived life with an open door and a friendly smile. Rhani possessed an innately joyful and musical soul, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. The infectious laugh, energetic presence, and positive enthusiasm she lavished on her son, friends, and students will be forever remembered in our hearts. Rhani is survived by her mother, Soon Ja, in Seoul, South Korea; brother, Young Jin Na, of La Crescenta, CA; and son, Noah Souza, of Sammamish, WA; and many students and friends who loved and cared for her deeply.A memorial service was held on Monday, August 17, 2009 at Yedam Church in Sammamish, with the Reverend Do Lee presiding. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, WA and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Rhani please sign the online guest register at: www.evanschapel.com.