Hoang Loan "Mai" Peterson Obituary (1936 - 2020)

Hoang Ngoc Loan, born in the city of Bac Ninh just outside of Hanoi, Vietnam and became Hoang Loan Peterson in marriage. The only survivor of a family wiped out by the French-Vietnam war, Loan escaped to Laos and then to the freedom of South Vietnam as the French war transitioned to the American war. She survived her childhood years by trading chickens to the French for soap which she traded back to the villagers and in exchange, returned with more chickens. Her schooling of that time was by candlelight in tunnels away from the foreign gunships and experienced many close calls. She went on to run a tailor shop for the French whom she revered for their customs, language, and food. Loan went on to raise her children through the American-Vietnam war, and from the staging grounds of Singapore, moved to the US in 1977 with her husband and four children. In the US, she was known for her rose garden filled with her hand selected fragrant varieties. Often neighbors and friends would say hello to her as she would wait for the bus. A mother with a strong resolve and great humility, she was always there to pick us up when we would fall even into our adult years. Helpers in the old country would eat with us at the table which was contrary to the customs. But that was just her caring nature and upon my recent visit to Vietnam, everyone spoke fondly of her generosity. She always reminded us to treat others with kindness as good shall return in many forms. Mom passed away peacefully at the age of 83 in her sleep and lived life independently the way she wanted. We will miss you, your voice, your incredible cooking, and your love. Please watch over us with your guidance. May your next life be filled with joy again playing with your late grandson Michael and may you revisit your long-lost family. She was preceded in death by husband Robert H Peterson and grandson Michael Minh Peterson. Loan "Mai" is survived by four children Robert, Ronald, Larry, and Susan. She is also survived by three grandchildren Joseph, Vinh, and Geneva. Maman repose en paix.