Viem Do

Viêm Ngọc Đỗ, 75, passed away on July 9, 2024, in Crestview, Florida, USA, after a long illness. Viêm was born on August 8, 1948, in Nam Định, Vietnam, to Đỗ Ngọc Vy and Vy Thị Nguyễn. He attended the Republic of Vietnam Naval Academy and served as a lieutenant in the Republic of Vietnam Navy during the Vietnam War. 

On April 30, 1975, Viêm, his crew, and their families left their naval patrol boat and boarded the HQ 402 Lâm-Giàn, the very last naval ship that escaped Vietnam. The HQ 402 was barely seaworthy. They were later rescued by HQ 11, successfully moving 3,000 people off the HQ 402 before sinking it in Phú Quốc. Viêm and his family then boarded a merchant ship and began their journey to the United States via Orote Point, Guam. 

In July 1975, Viêm and his family arrived in the United States among the thousands of Vietnamese refugees assisted by the International Rescue Committee. They were graciously welcomed by the Morse family in Pennsylvania.

Viêm pursued higher education and vocational training, recognizing the importance of learning, which he later instilled in his children. Known as a diligent worker, Viêm believed in demonstrating his love for his family through hard work. Always practical, he chose to learn how to repair cars because he knew he could always find work.  In his words, the only place there are no cars is in heaven. The first time his children saw his hands clean of motor oil and paint was in the days preceding his death. 

A devout Christian, Viêm found solace in his faith, dedicating years to studying the Bible and sharing his love for Christ with others.

Viêm was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Đỗ Xuân Việt, Đỗ Ngọc Vụ, Đỗ Ngọc Vợi, Đỗ Đức Vọng, and Đỗ Đức Vịnh. He is survived by his brother, Đỗ Ngọc Vấn; brothers, Đỗ Ngọc Vược and Đỗ Đức Vàng; sister, Đỗ Thị Ngọc Út; daughter, Uyên Chapman (Leon); daughter, Mai Morris (Keith); son, Vinh (Ashley); and 10 grandchildren. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Health Services, especially his nurse Sarah, whom he cherished, and social worker Patricia for her support, along with the caring staff at Crestview Manor and North Okaloosa Medical Center. They also thank Ngô Nguyên Trực and Walter Johnson for their friendship to Viem during his final days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Viem’s name to The Gideons International.

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