Ontario:  At age 69, Souly passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Rochester General Hospital.  Souly was predeceased by his brother; Viengchanh Kettavong.  Survived by his beloved wife of 40 years Phouang Ketavongsa, his children: Lani (Robert) Paxon, Jannene Ketavongsa, Noi (Chris) Souvanna, Souly Ketavongsa Jr., his sister; Kolakhane Ketavongsa, his sister-in-law, Saysamone Kettavong, his 11 grandchildren and his grand furbaby, along with several nieces, and nephews, and friends.

Souly Ketavongsa was born in Sannahket in Southern Laos to the late Keua and Chanhtha Ketavongsa.  As a young adult, Souly was a medic in the army fighting against the Communist Party in the 1970’s.  In 1978, he migrated to the United States of American through the Methodist Church sponsorship.  With barely $3.00 in his pocket, he entered America and walked off the plane in his flip-flops and an enormous smile.  His greatest ambition was to bring his siblings and their family in Laos to the United States.

In 1980, Souly met his loving and devoted wife of forty years.  Following their marriage, he and his bride built a family and filled their home with love.  The father of five spent his entire life sacrificing and supporting his children and extended family, which included celebrating life milestones and anniversaries.  Souly was an outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hunting and fishing.  In the fall, he appreciated scenic drives through the countryside of New York to view the changing color of the leaves.

There are many things for which Souly will be remembered.  To his colleagues he was a hardworking and industrious man.  He was never afraid of getting his hands dirty and the first coworker to offer a helping hand.  To his family Souly was an unassuming, easygoing, and a humble human being who was content with the simplest things in life.  For the past few days, we all have despaired at our loss, however, the power of his love and the significance of his life afford us comfort and the strength to move forward and to honor his legacy.

A funeral service will take place on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at 1PM at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, 21 Big Tree Street in Livonia.  Interment will take place privately.  To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com