Novn Nean: January 1, 1957 — August 17, 2026
LONGVIEW- Novn Nean, of Portland, Oregon, passed away on August 17, 2026, at the age of 69. She was born on January 1, 1957, in Samraong, Cambodia. She died peacefully at Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland, surrounded by close family members, after suffering a massive heart attack while on vacation at the coast in Lincoln City, Oregon.
Novn lived a life centered on her husband, children, and grandchildren, sharing enduring years with her life partner from a young age through her final days. Family was at the heart of her world, and some of her last memories were made on a coastal vacation with her daughters and grandchildren, enjoying nature and the closeness of those she loved most.
She will be remembered as a fun, spunky person who loved to make others laugh. She had a playful way of antagonizing the people she loved, a gesture that reflected her affection and care. She was also deeply nurturing, always wanting to make sure everyone around her had eaten well and left with full bellies from her meals. That gift of feeding others brought her great fulfillment.
Novn found joy in many simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved her grandkids dearly and cared for her cats as if they were her own children. She enjoyed sewing, watching western movies, shopping, exploring public markets, and walking around new places. She especially loved being outdoors—embracing the forest, nature, birds, and animals—and she was happiest near the ocean waves, discovering different restaurants and visiting places such as Astoria Market. Even despite her immobility, she tried her hardest to be present in life, to explore different places, and to make lasting memories with those closest to her.
She is survived by her husband, Sovann Chom; her daughters, Theap Thomas, Thuoy Chom, Thoeung Chom, Sophon Chom, and Maney Meneces-Chom; and Froilan Valencia Munguia. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, who were such an important part of her life. Novn was preceded in death by her father, Chan Nean, and her mother, In Moan.
Novn Nean will be remembered for her laughter, her love of family, her generous meals, and the joy she found in nature, the coast, and time spent with those she held dear. Her memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew and loved her.
