Dao Vang
September 3, 1991- December 4, 2024

Dao Vang, born on September 3, 1991, to Kia Vang and Ia Yang, passed away unexpectedly on December 4, 2024, at the age of 33, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born and raised in Eureka, Dao attended Eureka High School, where he found joy in playing football and building lifelong friendships. He continued his education at the College of the Redwoods, earning his associate’s degree and making his family proud. Dao married his high school sweetheart, Xee Lee, in 2011. Together, they shared 16 beautiful years of love and partnership, raising three wonderful children: Vivian, Vincent and Winston. Dao cherished his role as a father and embraced every opportunity to guide his children through life’s lessons. With great anticipation, Dao and Xee were expecting their fourth child in January 2025 but his life was tragically cut short far too soon.

Dao’s life was defined by kindness, laughter and a deep love for those around him. He brought light and warmth to every moment and left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Dao was known for his uplifting and positive spirit, bringing joy and inspiration to everyone around him. He found his greatest happiness in spending time with his wife and children, whether through laughter-filled family gatherings, playful jokes, or heartfelt moments of connection. His love extended beyond his immediate family, as he made friends across all generations, from children to elders.

A man of boundless generosity, Dao was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. In his free time, he could often be found outdoors, fishing with his children, hunting alongside his brothers and brothers-in-law, or heading out to sea to go crabbing with friends and family. His presence wil be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those he touched

Dao is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Xee Lee; and his children, Vivian Vang, Vincent Vang and Winston Vang. He is also survived by his parents, Kia Vang and Ia Yang, as well as his five siblings: Tong Vang, Nhia Vang, Nancy Vang, Sandy Vang and Xia Vang. Dao’s legacy of love and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

A Hmong traditional funeral ceremony will be held at Redwood Acres Fairground Franceschi Hall in Eureka on December 21st- 23rd, 2024. Dao’s burial ceremony will precede afterward on December 23, 2024, at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Grants Pass, Oregon.

Dao’s warmth, love and unwavering dedication to those he cared for will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly accepts donations to Dao’s Vang Family Go FundMe account at this link .

A very special thank you to the dedicated staff, nurses and medical doctors of St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka, who so lovingly cared for Dao during his last few days. Thank you for your understanding and accommodating family members who traveled near and far to be by his side, offering prayers and support. Your acceptance of these visits and consideration of the Hmong culture’s end-of-life rituals have shown us so much empathy and respect. Your acceptance of these traditions and compassion did not go unnoticed and will remain in our hearts forever.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Dao Vang’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.