An T. Nguyen

An Thanh Nguyen, renowned for his infectious laughter, embarked on his final adventure on Nov. 28, 2023. Tragically, An left us too soon after a brief yet brave battle with leukemia, which culminated in a sudden brain hemorrhage.

Born in Vietnam on Sept. 26, 1985, An's early life was marked by academic brilliance and a gentle, kind spirit. He met his high school sweetheart, Trish Hoang, at Le Hong Phong High School. After graduating in 2003, An moved to Boston to attend the University of Massachusetts, where he majored in Mathematics - not just because he loved numbers, but because, as he often joked, "they were the only ones that always made sense."

An and Trish, proving that true love knows no distance, officially began their journey together in 2005, despite the miles between Massachusetts and Illinois. In 2006, armed with a heart full of dreams and a suitcase packed with his favorite math books, An moved to Illinois to be closer to Trish. They married in 2007, solidifying a bond as deep as it was delightful. An's educational journey continued at Franklin University's online program, majoring in Financial Management and graduating Summa Cum Laude. His passion for learning culminated in his graduation with honors from an MBA program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2019.

An's career at the Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) was more than a job; it was a calling. He spent over a decade at WWBIC, leaving an indelible mark on his colleagues and earning their respect and love. An assisted hundreds of clients with access to capital and mentored his coworkers in his unique “An’s way.” He was especially proud of being honored as one of the "40 under 40" most successful and civic-minded young professionals in the Greater Madison area in 2020, a testament to his professional and personal contributions to the community.

The reunion with his mother in the U.S. in 2013 added another layer of joy to An's life. Their relationship was special, akin to that of close friends rather than just mother and son. To Trish, An was the forever best husband and friend, often showing more enthusiasm and passion for her research than she did. A devoted father, An adored his beautiful daughter, Helen, whom he affectionately called his "little boss." His joy in fatherhood was evident in every moment they shared. An dreamed of showing her all 50 states by her 18th birthday - 21 down, 29 to go. An's friendships were a testament to his loyalty and kindness, always ready with a helping hand. His skill in pitching ideas was evident in his success at convincing friends to try new foods and drinks.

An's interests were diverse; he was an avid reader, keen on investments, and enjoyed audiobooks during his travels. With his family, he loved hiking, paddleboarding, biking, and playing the piano. An was a passionate fan of the French soccer team and had a zest for exploring new technologies. His enthusiasm for sampling different kinds of beers, wines, and cultured foods was infectious. In a poignant twist of fate, An passed away on the same date as his idol Charlie Munger. His farewell ceremony coincides with the birthday of Mike Hetzel, who was like a father to him.

An was preceded in death by his father, Chuong Nguyen. He is survived by his mother, Van Ly; wife, Trish Hoang; daughter, Helen Nguyen; uncles: Hiep Nguyen, Truong Ly; aunts: Lien Nguyen, Tuyet Nguyen, Bieu Nguyen, Dieu Nguyen, Xuan Ly, Tam Ly, Nga Ly, Thuy Ly; cousin who was like his brother: Luan Nguyen; and many close cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.

An’s legacy is a blend of infectious laughter, unending kindness, and a firm belief in the goodness of humanity. He leaves behind a brighter, more joyful world, and memories that will continue to bring smiles to all who knew him. An's spirit, and undoubtedly his jokes, will live on forever in our hearts and memories. Here’s to you, An - for every laugh, every lesson, and every moment of love. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, Wis., from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. A time of sharing will take place at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. Please bring your stories to share! A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002