Ngia Cha

Ngia Cha, born Lauer Ai, was born to Changbao Ai and Feng Liu on December 5, 1940 in Phongsali, Laos and was orphaned at an early age. He passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Friday, February 7, 2025 at the age of 84. 

Ngia is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mai Hang Yang, his eight children, Kay (Richard), Max (Sean), Tou Xao (Prentiss), Lu (Alice), Amy (Jeffry), Karen, Ellen (Shane), and Sara, 17 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his 90-year-old sister, Youmei Ai, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews in Laos. He is predeceased by his three brothers and infant son, Seng. 

Ngia was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. After joining and serving in the CIA-led military effort in Laos during the Vietnam War, his family spent two years in Thai refugee camps. Ngia’s family eventually arrived in the United States in February 1979, with just a few pieces of clothing in their bags and big dreams of building new lives in America.

Ngia’s life was a story of hard work, resilience and unwavering faith. Although he never had any formal schooling, he understood the importance of an education and instilled this in the lives of his children. He loved fishing, playing cards, eating, and traveling, but nothing brought him more joy than simply spending time with his family.

 The family will host the following events:

- Sunday, February 16, 2025 – 2:30 p.m. Lunch at Sacramento Hmong Alliance Church (9131 Locust St, Elk Grove, CA 95624)

- Sunday, February 16, 2025 – 5:00 p.m. Viewing and Service at East Lawn Elk Grove Memorial Park & Mortuary (9189 E Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624)

- Monday, February 17, 2025 – 10:00 a.m. Service and Burial at East Lawn Elk Grove Memorial Park & Mortuary (9189 E Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624)

- Monday, February 17, 2025 – 2:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life lunch to follow at one of his favorite restaurants: No. 1 Buffet (7090 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95823)