Thongsao Thyvara
January 01, 1939 — July 04, 2026
January 1, 1939 – July 4, 2026
Thongsao Thyvara passed away July 4th, 2026, at home surrounded and embraced by loved
ones. Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa.
The Thyvara family settled in Des Moines, IA in 1982 thanks to a humanitarian refugee
initiative. Back in Laos, as a housing engineer and village leader, he devoted his talents to
building—not only homes, but also a stronger community. He believed in honest work, in
doing things, the right way, and in leaving the world better than he found it.
Despite all he accomplished, he remained humble. He never sought recognition or praise.
He found fulfillment in simple things: a job well done, a quiet morning, and the people he
loved.
He enjoyed his morning routine with some meditative stretching and a sweet cup of coffee.
His greatest joy wasn't found in possessions or achievements, but in seeing his children
and grandchildren grow, laugh, and build lives of their own. They reflect the life he had
worked so hard to create—a family together, safe, and thriving.
Though we will miss his presence, his legacy lives on with his daughter Chanpheng
Davenport, son Khemphet Thyvara, daughter Kounthong Snyder, daughter Charity
Ostwinkle and their families.
His values—hard work, resilience, kindness, and devotion—live on in each of his children,
grandchildren, and great– grandchildren. Every lesson he taught, every sacrifice he made,
and every moment he shared has become part of who we are.
As we say goodbye, we picture him as he was happiest: sitting peacefully with his coffee,
watching over the family he loved so deeply content in knowing he is now reunited with his
wife, Theng Thyvara.
Rest in peace. You will always be loved, forever remembered, and never forgotten.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com