MADISON - Chue Lee Khang, age 76, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family on January 2, 2026.

Chue Lee Khang was born on December 15, 1949, in Phus Fab Noi, Laos. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, assembly line worker, teacher, soldier, church member, community member, and a leader wherever he went. He was born in Laos, where he became a respected teacher and later married Chia (Yang) Khang. After teaching for several years, Chue Lee was forced to flee to the jungles with his wife, children, and relatives to avoid persecution during the Vietnam War. During this time, he fought to protect his family, relatives, and friends from the Pathet Lao. He was appointed as a Colonel by General Vang Pao. Chue Lee eventually led his family out of Laos to a refugee camp in Thailand and later resettled in the United States as Hmong refugees.

Chue Lee loved to keep himself busy. When he was not working to support his family, he was always planning his next home improvement project. He found joy in gardening and spending time outdoors. Chue Lee was also a dedicated member of his church. He joined the United Methodist Church upon his arrival in Wausau, Wisconsin, in 1988 and served in multiple leadership positions including as the Church Ad Council Chair and Church Treasurer. He remained a faithful member even after moving to Madison, Wisconsin, to support his children as they raised their families. Despite mobility challenges following a stroke in 2001, Chue Lee continued to attend church weekly.

Singing was an important part of Chue Lee’s life. He loved to sing church hymns, traditional Hmong folk songs, and songs he used as a teacher, taking every opportunity to share his voice at home. He especially cherished singing for his grandchildren. His love for them was always deeply felt.

Chue Lee is survived by his wife, Chia Khang, three daughters, five sons, and their families. From oldest to youngest: Zang Khang (Ntxoov Lwm) Hang, Ying Khang (Cha Tong) Yang, Mao Khang (Lee) Vang, Tou Ya (Chienyann) Khang, Tou Vong Khang, Tou Tong (Nalee) Khang, TouKou (KaBao) Khang, Tounhia Khang; and his 19 grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, WI, on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Monday, January 26, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Services will be held on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Burial will take place at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Hwy BB, Cottage Grove, WI, on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 11 a.m.

Chue Lee’s favorite quote was, “Xyum zoo, tau zoo; xyum phem, tau phem,” which translates to, “Do good and you will receive good; do bad and you will receive bad.” He believed deeply that practicing kindness and good deeds would lead to positive things in return.

Sunshine money may be sent to (PayPal) tkhan860@yahoo.com; (Venmo) @tkkhang; or (Cash App) $tkhang4.

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

Gunderson Oregon

Funeral & Cremation Care

1150 Park St.

(608) 835-3515

Chue Lee Khang

December 15, 1949 - January 02, 2026

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