Bunsoeun Som

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bunsoeun Som, age 73, on May 22, 2025 after an unexpected illness. She was surrounded by her loving family. 

Bunsoeun is preceded in death by her mother, Sutt Somme; her father, Hok Som; her beloved son, Sereiyuthana; and her cherished baby daughter, Boreiseyla. She is survived by her husband, Sreyheng Kaun; her children, Chyvy (Praseth) Kaun-Sip, Seyla (Brad) Kramer, Ra (Jenna) Kaun, and Sereiritiya Kaun; her grandchildren, Vysett, Sakura, Sodahny, Ava, Myla, Ezra, and Evangeline; her brother Song (Kimra); and her many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, both in the United States and Cambodia. 

Bunsoeun was born in Battambang, Cambodia on June 11, 1951. She was beloved and cherished by her parents and family. Bunsoeun was a remarkable businesswoman - at a time and place when it was uncommon for women to work outside the home. 

When Cambodia fell into the hands of the Khmer Rouge, she displayed courage; often taking on dangerous assignments in order to be with her children. She endured devastating losses, including the passing of her eldest son to dysentery, the loss of her three-month-old daughter to starvation, the death of her father, and the forced separation from her husband. These hardships strengthened her resolve to survive and protect her family. 

Her life, as a refugee in the United States, was defined by an unwavering belief in the importance of education. She encouraged her children to pursue learning as a path to a better future and was immensely proud to help send all four to college. She worked tirelessly to help support her family while rebuilding her life in a new country, forming lasting friendships with many of her coworkers, whom she loved as family. She was thankful to have worked at, and eventually retired from Anthony-Thomas Candy Company. 

She was the heart, soul, and source of strength for her family. She was a bridge—a link to Cambodian culture, heritage, and history; anchoring her children and grandchildren between two worlds. Her legacy is one of enduring love, generosity, and strength. She showed us how to love unconditionally, give generously, and protect one another.

 A small service for immediate family will be held on Tuesday, May 27 at Newcomer Funeral Home in Grove City, Ohio per Bunsoeun's wishes.