Chang Pao Yang, St. Paul, MN— Chang Pao Yang (PaajPov Yaaj), a beloved father, husband, and community member, passed away on July 26, 2024, at the age of 73. The community mourns his loss deeply, remembering him as a wise and dedicated individual whose life impacted many.
Chang was born in Xiangkhouang Province, Laos, on March 3, 1951, to Wang Sher Yang and Yer Cha. His life journey was marked by significant historical events and personal sacrifices. In September 1974, Chang married Youa Cha, and a year later, he served in the Secret War as a Sergeant in the Special Guerilla Unit during the Vietnam War. His bravery led him to scout a safe passageway to Thailand through the Mekong River. Tragically, he lost his two oldest sons, Xiong and Lee, during the war.
After relocating to the United States in January 1980, Chang built a new life for his family. He initially settled in Chicago, Illinois, and later moved to Wisconsin, where he reunited with his family and welcomed five more children: Jessica Akeens, May See Xiong, Lisa Yang-Xiong, Steel Yang, and Sheila Yang. Chang pursued education at Wisconsin Indian Technical Institute and North Central Technical College, specializing in Machine Tool Operation and Computer-Aided Drafting.
In April 1988, Chang relocated to North Carolina and eventually settled in Charlotte. He and his wife Youa built their dream home in Stony Point, North Carolina, in July 2000. Chang had his last child, Kenshin Yang, in 2003. After his first wife’s passing, Chang married Ka Xiong in 2006. In May 2011, Chang moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he remained until his passing.
Chang is survived by his six children: Jessica Akeens, May See Xiong, Lisa Yang-Xiong, Steel Yang, Sheila Yang, and Kenshin Yang; six grandchildren: Micah, Myliah, Eliyah, Josiah, Penelope, and Theodore; and three brothers: Xa Yang, Ying Yang, and Doua Yang.
The community has shown immense support and sympathy during this difficult time. Sheila Yang, Chang’s daughter, has organized a fundraiser on GoFundMe titled "Remembering Chang Pao Yang’s Life" to assist with memorial expenses. As of now, the campaign aims to raise $5,000.
Sheila Yang shared on Facebook, “Our father, Chang Pao Yang, passed away on July 26, 2024. We are hoping to honor him through his memorial on August 17, 2024, in St. Paul, MN. We hope to see everyone whose life has been intertwined with our father’s at one point or another. Thank you for all of your well-wishes during this difficult time.”
Among those who have expressed their condolences, Tong Yang wrote, "So sorry to hear about your dad’s passing, Sheila Yang. I knew your dad for a long time. Sad to see him gone so soon." Laj Txab Yaaj also shared, "Nrug mej tsev neeg tu sab os.Peb tuaj koom tsi tau mej os," and Nhia Xiong added, "Moog zoo koj os Yij Paaj."
Chang’s funeral service will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, and from 10:00 a.m. to noon on Monday, August 19, 2024, at Bradshaw Funeral Home, 4600 Greenhaven Dr, White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Following the service, Chang will be laid to rest at Elmhurst Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 19, 2024.
Chang enjoyed hunting, carpentry, farming rice, technology, and computers, and took pride in his yellow Jeep Rubicon. His presence and wisdom will be profoundly missed by his family and friends.
We are deeply saddened to learn of Chang Pao Yang’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Short Summary of Chang Pao Yang
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Chang Pao Yang (PaajPov Yaaj) |
| Date of Passing | July 26, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Sheila Yang |
| Goal Amount | $5,000 |
| Amount Raised | Not yet specified |
| Location | St. Paul, MN |
| Purpose | Memorial expenses |
Our heartfelt prayers go out to Chang Pao Yang’s family. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
Note:This post was written and edited by Camila Perez, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.