Bob Em

It is great sadness that we announce our loving father, grandfather, husband, brother and friend, Bob “Phon” Em passed away peacefully in his home on January 1st, 2025. He was born on May 1st, 1929 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and spent his life surrounded by family, friends, and his deep Cambodian cultural roots.

Bob Em was a survivor of the Khmer Rouge, one of the most horrific genocides in history. After escaping the Khmer Rouge, Bob always thinking of the well-being of his family, Bob made the decision to escape Cambodia overnight and head towards the U.N. refugee camp at the border of Cambodia and Thailand. The sacrifices he and his wife Lay Ten made for their children, to protect and give them a new life in America, will never be forgotten. 

Bob enjoyed spending his days at the Wat temple, religiously writing and reciting Khmer scriptures, spending time with grandmother tending to the garden, and most of all, sharing wisdom and unforgettable stories. His wish for the family was to live a happy, healthy and full life. 

Buddhist funeral service will be held Wednesday, January 15th at 9:00am at Wat Vipassanaram on 1239 E 20th St., Long Beach, CA. A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 16th at Forest Lawn in Cypress CA.

May he rest in eternal peace.