Obituary

Khmao Chhouy, 67, of Grinnell, died on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at UnityPoint Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. The family will receive friends at the visitation held prior to the service beginning at 1:00 pm.

Memorial checks should be made payable to his son, Channa Chhouy, and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Khmao’s family online at www.smithfh.com.

Khmao was born on January 1, 1958, in Kumon, Oddar Meanchey Province in Cambodia to Chhouy Poi and Tien Prim. He was raised and educated in Cambodia. In 1980, his family moved to the United States and they settled in Mechanicsville, Iowa. He lived in Tacoma, Washington for several years before returning to Iowa and making Grinnell his home.

An avid outdoorsman, he found great joy in fishing, hunting, and foraging for mushrooms—activities that connected him deeply with nature and brought him peace.

Above all, Khmao cherished his family. His love for his grandchildren knew no bounds, and he found true happiness in their laughter and company.

Khmao was also the life of the party. With a song in his heart and a microphone in hand, he could always be found singing karaoke or dancing with infectious energy. His laughter, his voice, and his zest for life will never be forgotten.

Khmao is survived by his children, Channa (Emily) Chhouy of Newton, IA, Melisa (Samnang) Yem of Tacoma, WA, Chollana Chhouy of Grinnell, Sarica Chhouy of Grinnell, Robert (Hailey) Chhouy of Montezuma, IA; step-daughter, Savorn Yoeun of Grinnell; 15 grandchildren; and siblings, Choeuy Prim, Chhoeun Chhouy, and Cheay Chhouy. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; three brothers; and a granddaughter.