Dokmai Vichean D"Ottavio

                Dokmai Vichean D’Ottavio, age 70, was called home to be with her Lord on 30 December 2018. Dokmai was born on 22 July 1948 in Nakhon Ratchisma, Thailand to Tong and Lim Vichean. She met her husband to be of 44 years in 1972. Dokmai immigrated to the United States and called the Emerald Coast home. Dokmai was predeceased by her parents and an older sister, Lord Viriyapong. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard; a daughter, Pornapha “Tic” Soijampa and her husband Sorask; two grandsons and a younger brother, Udom all residing in Thailand.

                One of her joys in life was cooking and entertaining. While following her husband’s military assignments worldwide, Dokmai mastered cooking various cuisines. On returns to the area, Dokmai established, owned and successfully operated at five different times Oriental restaurants to share the delights of her cooking acumen to the local community. Dokmai loved gardening and grew many of the herbs and vegetables used in her restaurant.

                Other passions Dokmai had and wanted to share was her involvement and the integration of Thai culture into the local community. Dokmai was a charter member of the Thai- American association and was the first elected president serving two year term.  Dokmai’s faith and belief in the teaching of Buddha led her to sponsor and fund the establishment of Thai Wats in Fort Walton and Navarre.

                Because of minimal education in her youth, Dokmai realized the importance of higher education. She encouraged and supported her staff and workers to pursue continued training. Dokmai also ensured that her family members received a college education or technical training, often footing the entire cost.

                Dokmai was always willing to help the less fortunate or starting out new. She was instrumental in helping others find viable work or acted as a silent partner while helping a new business or trade start up.

A time of visitation will be held 2:00 – 4:00 PM, Saturday, 5 January, 2019 at Emerald Coast Funeral Home; 161 Racetrack Road, NW; Fort Walton Beach, Fl.  In accordance with Buddhist tradition, the Chanting ceremony will commence at 3:00 PM. Flowers are accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Wat Florida Buddharam; 2137 Fox Den Drive; Navarre, FL 32566. Watflbuddharam@gmail.com. You may sign the guest book at www.emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com.    

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