Our beloved Hien Ngoc Dang (73) of Toronto, Ontario, passed away peacefully on May 14th, 2023, surrounded by family.

Hien, fondly known as Mr. Dang, Bố, Daddy, and Ông was born in Hanoi, Vietnam on December 7th, 1949. A fighter from day one, he was separated from his family after the fall of Saigon and placed in a re-education camp for 3½ years. Upon release, he made it his mission to escape the communist rule of Vietnam with his wife and newborn daughter. During the mass exodus of Vietnam, they became stranded at sea as boat people, before finally landing in refugee camps for 6 months. Eventually, they were sponsored by Canada and established roots in Guelph with aid from Parkview Church, for which they remain truly grateful.

Hien was known for championing many causes and always found ways to give back. Passionate about his Vietnamese heritage, and driven by his dream to one day see a liberated Vietnam, he supported countless Vietnamese families as they settled as new immigrants in Guelph, raised funds for the less fortunate, and donated to the Vietnamese War Veterans. He was also proud to have helped lead the initiative that saw the naming of Saigon Street in Guelph.

For the last 18 years, Hien fought through many health struggles beginning with Leukemia. With the help of a stem-cell transplant from his sister Hang, he was able to conquer cancer. He is forever grateful for all of the care he received from so many medical professionals at UHN, especially Princess Margaret Hospital.

Hien enjoyed spending time with family and all eight of his grandchildren (Stella, Scarlett, Pierce, Aiden, Magnus, Beckham, Audrey & Ellerie). Ever the handyman, he was always ready to share his wealth of knowledge. He was wise and thoughtful and his perspective was sought by friends and family alike. He thoroughly enjoyed the company of his close friends, gardening, music, real estate, finding a good deal, as well as a great meal & coffee.

Hien is survived by his wife Dung and four children, Yasmine Huong (Adam), Linda (Kevin), Brian (Jennifer), and Julie (Alan). He is also survived by his sisters Hang (Duc) and Hong, and his brother Huan (Thu). Hien was predeceased by his parents Binh and Lien, his brother Hy, and sister Huong.

Despite all of his hardships in life, he never lost his sense of humour and positive nature. He will always be remembered for the smile that lit up a room and his eager and giving heart, ready to help anyone in need.