Chheng Khlok

Our beloved Chheng Khlok was born on October 12th, 1939, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. At age 18, Chheng married her late husband, Sreng Eng Khlok. She became a housewife and together with her husband, they built their family. From oldest to youngest, Chheng gave birth to Chhivinda Khlok, Phalkun (April) Sot, Chhivindy Khlok, Chhivindavy Khlok, Chhivinneary Khlok, and Chhivinnaren (David) Khlok. In 1975, Chheng's husband and eldest son escaped the Khmer Rouge killing fields fleeing to the United States while Chheng and her other 4 children were held at a refugee camp in Thailand waiting for freedom. During that time, Chheng lost one of her daughters, Chhivineary. The Khmer Rouge destroyed families and land throughout the country of Cambodia which ended in 1979.  For 5 years, Chheng and her 4 younger children, struggled finding ways to survive day by day as they waited for Sreng to come back for them.

In 1980, the wait was over. Sreng and Chhivinda were able to free their family from the refugee camp through sponsors in the United States. Chheng, her 4 younger children, and some of her nieces and nephews were privileged to start a new life in America. Chheng and her family lived all across the United States, from Georgia, Virginia, to Oregon.

In 1989, Chheng decided to settle her family in Long Beach, California. Chheng not only raised her children, but also her grandchildren. She was also blessed to spend time with all her great grandchildren. Chheng always preached the importance of family and how family should always stick together. Chheng was a strong, witty, independent woman. She took pride in being presentable to the world not only through fashion, but with grace and respect. She also believed in treating others how you would like to be treated. Chheng enjoyed gardening as she found it therapeutic. All in all, Chheng was the foundation of her family and always will be.

On April 27th, 2023, at 6:28 PM, God called her home. Chheng passed away peacefully with most of her family by her side, at the fruitful age of 83. Chheng lived a long, happy, and fulfilling life. She left behind the legacy of 5 children, 16 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. Chheng was a loyal Buddhist who prayed for eternal soul and rebirth. As we are all gathered here today, we will continue to pray for reincarnation and eternal life for our dearest Chheng Khlok.