Mr. Tan Huan Phoun, 92, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 7:55 AM on Tuesday, December 13 , 2016 at the home of his son.  He and wife Lay had moved in with his son's family since the tragic fire destroyed their home 9 months ago.

Tan was born in Cantone, China on May 9 , 1924.  He was the treasured son of Yuen and Kim Fong Phoun.

On February 29 , 1944, Tan Huan and Inh Lay were married. They enjoyed 72 years of life's adventures.  From their union came eleven wonderful children, including eight sons and three daughters.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of 26 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

As an entrepreneur, Tan owned and operated a hardware business in Laos for more than four decades.  In May of 1983 the Phoun family moved to the United States, settling in Plymouth.  In 1991 Mr. Phoun with his sons  Cho and Lieng opened Rochester's original Chinese restaurant known as Chi-Am Gardens.  From within locals could enjoy delectable Chinese cuisine.  Tan oversaw the business for 20 years until he retired in 2010.  His son Cho known to customers as Joe, continues the family tradition as a restaurateur.

With great pride Mr. Phoun became a naturalized citizen of the United States of America in June of 1999.  He had great love for the USA and the values.

During Tan's years in Taiwan he and Lay enjoyed travel worldwide. For a blend of business as well as vacationing some of their favorite destinations were Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia and various countries in Europe.   Tan enjoyed challenging family and friends to a good game such as Mahjong, a Chinese domino game.  He was always at home at his kitchen command post cooking a creating culinary delights for his wife and family.  He also enjoyed relaxing by watching television and reading.

Left to cherish Tan's memory is his loving wife of 72 years  Lay Inh Phoun; and  his children: Yong K. Phoun ( KY ) of North Webster,  Hung K. Phoun of Taiwan,  Chieu N. Chang of Plymouth,  Lo K. Phoun (Weng) of North Dakota,  Siem N. Yu (Jung) of Rochester,  Kent K. Phoun (Huey Ling) of Los Angeles, CA,  Cho K. Phoun (Sue Ling) of Rochester,  Lieng K. Phoun (Sophie) of Rochester,  Mett N. Arone (Tao) of Rochester,  Ting K. Phoun ( Lu ) of Iowa,  Moun K. Phoun of Las Vegas, NV;  26 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; and a sister,  Phan Nhuan Liou of San Diego.  Preceding Tan in death are his parents.

A celebration of the life of Mr. Tan Huan Phoun will be at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, December 28 , 2016 at the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.  Pastor Jerry Pitman will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 4 -7 PM on Tuesday, December 27th and one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.