Ekkarat Sawangsang

In Loving Memory of Ekkarat “Sam” Sawangsang October 31, 1951 – May 29, 2025

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Ekkarat Sawangsang - beloved husband, devoted father, caring brother, uncle, cousin, and dear friend - on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

Affectionately known as "Sam" or “Kae” to family and friends, he was born on October 31, 1951, in Bangkok, Thailand, to Somwong Jew and Prasong Sawangsang. He spent his early years in Bangkok before moving with his family to Chiang Mai. In 1972, Sam emigrated to the United States in his early twenties and settled in Mount Vernon, NY, under the loving guidance of his aunt, Uraivone Chaiprasert.

Soon after, he met the love of his life, Cory, who had come to the U.S. from Panama. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, humor, and unwavering support. They settled in the Bronx, where Sam began his long and successful career as an airplane mechanic with Pan Am. Known for his skillful hands and sharp mind, Sam had a natural ability to fix anything. He eventually started his own business servicing airport equipment, continuing his work with JFK Airport as a provider. Through every professional success, he remained humble and grounded.

Sam was the proud middle child of three siblings. He worked tirelessly in New York, selflessly sending money back to Thailand to support his parents and siblings. Family was the center of his world. He raised his younger cousins, Tippy and Katie, with the same love and care as his own child. In time, he and Cory welcomed their daughter, Jade, who became the light of his life. To Sam, Jade could do no wrong, she was his heart and his pride.

He was a loyal father and was overjoyed to welcome his son-in-law, John, into the family. Sam's home was always filled with laughter, delicious food, and unconditional love. He loved being surrounded by his extended family, including his cherished dog, Dutch, and was happiest when everyone was together.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Sam rooted passionately for the New York Yankees and Giants. He also found great joy in nature—hunting and camping each year with his closest friends, creating lifelong memories under the open sky. Sam lived with a generous heart, always ready with a joke or a playful story beginning with, “Let me tell you something…” just to bring a smile to those around him.

Though his passing feels too soon, we take comfort in the Buddhist belief that his spirit continues on a peaceful journey. May he be reunited with his beloved parents, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Sam is survived by his devoted wife, Cory Sawangsang; his cherished daughter, Jade Sawangsang, and her husband, John; his extended family in the U.S. and Thailand; and many lifelong friends.

In honoring Sam’s life, we remember a man of generosity, humor, and deep love—a man who always put family first and lived each day with gratitude and joy.

May he rest in peace.