Duong Duy Nguyen

Duong Duy Nguyen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully in Columbia, MD on January 7, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on May 26, 1941, in Nhân Hoà Village, Nghi Lộc District, Nghệ An Province, Việt Nam, Duong’s life was marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family.

Duong is survived by his devoted wife, Van Thuy Nguyen, who stood by his side throughout their shared life. Together, they raised an extraordinary family who carry forward his legacy of love, dedication, and compassion. His daughter, Thuy-Linh Duy Nguyen, shares in his legacy with her husband, Mark Koehler, and their children, Vincent Koehler, Nicholas Koehler, and Simon Koehler.

Also honoring his memory are his sons: Hoang-Chuong Duy Nguyen, married to Francesca Uccellini Nguyen and their children, Blake Nguyen, Milani Nguyen, and Kellen Nguyen; John Hoang Phong Duy Nguyen with Erin Paradis and their children, Lucas Nguyen, Tristan Nguyen, and Sophie Nguyen, who continue to reflect the values instilled by their grandfather; and Paul Long Hoang Nguyen.

Duong is also mourned by his brothers, San Nguyen, Hung The Nguyen, and Cuong Nguyen, and sisters in Vietnam, Huong Thu and Truyen Nguyen, who remember him as a source of strength and support throughout their lives.

Duong was best known for his great courage and discipline. A deeply religious Catholic, his faith guided every aspect of his life. He served as Lieutenant in the South Vietnamese Army and fought in the Vietnam war. He survived the north Vietnamese POW camp for 1.5 years.  After the Vietnam War, it was his courage and leadership that enabled him to plan and carry out a daring escape by boat for more than 50 people in search of a better future for their families. Throughout his life, he made countless sacrifices to support loved ones both in America and in Việt Nam, helping his family grow in prosperity through perseverance, dedication, and forward thinking.

An exceptionally intelligent and driven man, Duong taught himself both English and French. While working full time in his middle years, he pursued and earned a master’s degree in engineering at the University of Maryland College Park. He also dedicated much of his time to service within the Church, volunteering in leadership and teaching roles, singing in the choir, serving as a lector, and acting as master of ceremonies for many community events. He was tireless in his service and always stayed active and engaged.

Duong's impact on those around him was profound, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of love, perseverance, and deep familial bonds. He will be dearly missed but fondly remembered for the joy he brought into the lives of all he encountered.

Please kindly omit flowers and donations.