Bob (Thao Bounmy Vera) Vera

Vera, Bob (Thao Bounmy Vera) SUN PRAIRIE-Bob Vera, age 64, passed away at UW Hospital on Sunday, March 29, 2015, after a ferocious fight against liver cancer. He was born on Jan. 1, 1951, in Khong, Laos, the son of Keo Onchanh. Prior to immigrating to the United States in 1975, Bob lived and worked in Tokyo, Japan for several years. He became a citizen of the United States in 1979 and worked tirelessly to bring members of his family to the United States from refugee camps. Bob owned and operated his own restaurant for several years. He then went on to work for Imperial Garden West for over 30 years, retiring in 2012. Bob married Debra Riphahn on May 3, 1986, in Madison. He became a father the same year and focused his time and energy on his family, always putting them first. Bob was a lifelong learner, who spoke several languages and continued his education by taking English classes well into his retirement. Bob is survived by his wife, Debra; daughter, Kayleigh (Jeremiah) Vera Otto; son, Tyler; several brothers and sisters; and other relatives and friends around the world. He was preceded in death by his mother, Keo Onchanh. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 2 p.m., on Saturday, April 4, 2015. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday, April 3, 2015, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., and from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. A private burial at Roselawn Memorial Park will be held at a later date. Special thanks to: UW Carbone Cancer Center, Palliative Care Team and the amazing nurses and staff in B6/6, the dignity and respect provided to Bob will never be forgotten. Also, many thanks to Jenna Diedrich, Kate de Felice , Jake and Jamie Dushack, and Nick and Jodee Dushack for their loving and unfailing support to our family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive