Mao Tes

   Mao Tes, 64, of Sioux City, IA, passed away on February 25, 2023, with her family by her side.   

   She married Reach Pum, in 1979, in Thailand. This was during the Khmer Rogue regime that forced millions of Cambodians out of their country. Through all the chaos and tragedy they endured during that time period, they were able to find unconditional and everlasting love with one another. A love that lasted 44 years.  She is survived by her husband Reach Pum, and 6 children, Roeun Pum of Sioux City, IA, Soporl Pum-Caliso of Irvine, CA, Sopea Pum-Kim of Sioux City, IA, Sophany Pum-Johnson of Sioux City, IA, Sovanna Pum of Sioux City, IA, and Sokary Pum-Vallejo of Sioux City, IA.  She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, ranging from ages 12 years to 6 months. 

   Mao was an accomplished chef and loved cooking for her family.  She had a special dish for each member of her family and took great pride in making it the perfect dish. She was also an amazing storyteller and can captivate an audience with her words. Her sense of humor until the very end has always been her greatest asset. Even as she was battling lung cancer, she was always kind and caring to others. She always put the family’s needs before her own and making sure the home is safe and full of love. 

   Viewing ceremony with monk service to follow will be held on March 2, 2023, at 1 PM, which is her birthday.  We will honor her life on this special day.  Cremation will follow the service. These services will be held at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel (6200 Morningside Ave.) in Sioux City, IA. The family insists that people make donations in support of lung cancer research, in lieu of sending flowers.