Jim Thongphet

Jim Thongphet, 47, of Sergeant Bluff, IA, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 12, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Services for Jim will be held at the Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel in Sioux City, on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., with cremation to follow. Please join the family for a Celebration of Life afterwards, at his place of residence, 100 8th Street, Lot 101, Sergeant Bluff, IA, following cremation. An “Alms Giving Ceremony” (“Thak Bhat”) will be held at his residence on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Online condolences may be directed to www.meyerbroschapels.com. 

Jim was born on June 1, 1976 in Kenethao, Sainyabuli, Laos, to Thongsiane and Kanha (Sypaserth) Thongphet. The three of them immigrated from Laos in 1980 where they sought refuge in Dallas, Texas. They eventually relocated to South Sioux City, Nebraska, to plant new roots in 1986. Jim attended South Sioux City Senior High where his classmates knew him as “Souchine”. He worked at various production plants, including IBP/Tyson Fresh Meats, Northwest Iowa Pork, and, lastly, Pech Optical. He married Lecta Khanyapuk on April 8, 2022, and together they share one son, Boston Thongphet (9), and blended their family to include Jim’s eldest son, Denney Thongphet (20) and Lecta’s daughter, Madison Rasmy (15).

Jim enjoyed fishing and had a profound interest in raising betta fish. He also had an affinity for music (karaoke), shopping, playing cards with friends, bowling and football. His favorite teams were the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Dallas Cowboys. He was devoted to his family and valued quality time together. He especially looked forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas. He was full of stories, and as the years went by, he was unapologetically candid. You never knew what would come out of his mouth, and there was never a dull moment with him.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and selflessness. He wore his heart on his sleeve and his loyalty surpassed all others. Those who knew him know that he had battled with serious health issues for several years and it was hard to witness his decline. Yet, he always had a positive attitude and outlook on life. His sudden passing is undeniably devastating. His memory will remind us that life is short, cherish our time with loved ones, and make the best of the cards we’re dealt.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lecta Khanyapuk of Sergeant Bluff, IA; children, Denney Thongphet of Sioux City, IA, Madison Rasmy and Boston Thongphet of Sergeant Bluff, IA; sister Ruth (Matt) Liston of Sioux City, IA; nephews Kaidyn Lantz and Brody Liston of Sioux City, IA; parents-in-law Somchit and Khamphew Khanyaphak and sisters-in-law Litha, Nacha, Ampha and Laong Khanyaphak of Kenethao, Sainyabuli, Laos; and, many extended family members and friends both in the United States and Laos.

He was preceded in death by two siblings; his paternal grandparents; his maternal grandparents; and dear family and friends.

Contributions to Jim’s memorial fund can be directed to Thongsiane and Kanha Thongphet.