Obituaries

Keo Phongxaysanith, 76

January 1, 1949 - September 14, 2025

Keo Phongxaysanith passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at home with family by his side. He was born in Phonhong, Laos on January 1, 1949. He lived an extraordinary life and made friends with every person he met. He was a member of the Royal Lao Army from 1963-1975 and an exchange student at Aberdeen Proving Grounds during the conflict in Southeast Asia. As a result of the Laotian Civil War, he was a prisoner of war from 1975-1977. Keo immigrated with his wife and two small boys in 1980 with the help of the host families of Leacock Presbyterian Church in Paradise, Pennsylvania who had welcomed him during his military training in the United States.

With the support of the Leacock Presbyterian community, Keo established a better life for his family in the United States. He worked as a laborer and later a foreman at Anderson Pretzels for 32 years until his retirement in 2014. He enjoyed watching the grandchildren grow up, family vacations, gardening, and working in the yard. One of the proudest moments of his life came on September 25, 1987, when Keo and his family became American Citizens. He came to this country with very little and through hard work and perseverance, he became the epitome of the “American Dream.”

Keo was a committed husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years Khamtanh, along with his eldest son Mountry and daughter-in-law Kara, his middle son Hatsady and daughter-in-law Susannah, and his youngest daughter Mary and daughter-in-law Corinne. He is also survived by four grandchildren – Noah, Lucas, Lia, and Lily.

A viewing will take place from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, followed by the funeral at 2:00 pm with The Rev. James Shuler officiating on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Interment will be private.

Contributions may be made in Keo’s memory to Leacock Presbyterian Church, 3181 Lincoln Hwy. East, Paradise, PA 17572.

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Condolences to the Family

September 21, 2025

Kham and family, Our heartfelt condolences to you with the passing of Keo. We remember his positive attitude and his Love for you. may the Lord hold you close and keep you. Joan and Bill Holliday

September 20, 2025

I worked with Keo many years at Anderson Pretzel. He always had stories to tell and a very positive attitude. Most of all he was a friend. My condoliences to the family. Mike Sterner

September 19, 2025

So sorry for your loss Moon. May your dad rest in peace. Jim Buddendorf

September 19, 2025

So sorry for your loss. I don’t remember meeting him, but I’m sure he was a wonderful husband, father, & grandfather. Our prayers are with your family. Love, Jerry & Brenda Brackbill

September 19, 2025

Keo was a wonderful, loving, and compassionate soul. He enjoyed helping others, and was cheerful and happy every time we saw him. We have very fond memories of all the holidays we shared, and appreciated being part of your family celebrations. He faced many challenges in bringing his family safely to the US. We’re so happy to have you in our lives and in our Paradise community. It was a joy watching the kids grow up, and having families of there own. All our heart felt sympathies and prayers are will you always. Love Glenn & Lisa

September 18, 2025

I am sorry I never met your dad, Mary. Erin always spoke so highly of him and said he was the sweetest man. Joe and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. With loving thoughts ~ Sandy and Joe Maculaitis

September 18, 2025

I first met Keo when he did his morning and/or afternoon walk past my house. We usually exchanged pleasantries. Keo was a very happy and beautiful person. God bless Keo. My condolences and prayers to his family.
Grace Pinto

September 18, 2025

To Mary and Corinne and the family I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your Father! My deepest condolences!
Carolyn R

September 18, 2025

My thoughts are with you Kham and with your family. Keo was a wonderful man and always made the workday brighter with his presence. I will always remember his sunny disposition, his smile and his laughter. Sending my love and condolences.
Cori Deckert

September 17, 2025

My condolences to you and your family , you will be in my thoughts
Jennifer Engle

September 16, 2025

We are so sorry for your family’s loss. My girls still remember him as well. Please accept our sincere condolences, prayers, and sympathy.
Frank and Barb Scheaffer as well as our girls, Michelle, Ashley, and Becky.

Visitation: Sunday, September 21, 2025; 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
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Services: Sunday, September 21, 2025; 2:00 PM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >