Bounthanh Sylavong, 64, and Thongbay Sylavong, 61, of Champaign, IL both left this life unexpectedly on January 16, 2013. Although their passing was tragic, we are remotely comforted knowing they departed this world only moments apart; this was symbolic of the inseparable life they led.

Bounthanh was born to Say and Phong Sylavong on February 16, 1948 in Pakse, Laos. Thongbay was born to Beng and Sith Skoolthai on April 14, 1951 in Mukdahan, Thailand. They married in 1967and their family was sponsored to the United States in 1980 by Lou and Mary Henson. Bounthanh worked at the University of Illinois Department of Physiology and Thongbay worked at Herff-Jones; both were with their respective employers for over 30 years.

Bounthanh is survived by his mother Say Sylavong of Savoy, IL; his brothers Bounthanh (Chanh) Syravong of Albany, Oregon and Bounthane (Hoa) Sylavong of Pakse, Laos, his sister Chansy (Lee) Savathphoune of Champaign. Thongbay is survived by seven brothers and five sisters in Thailand. They are also survived by their daughter Thongsay Khathakhanthaphixay, son Chanhsavat Sylavong, both of Streamwood, IL, son Vilath (Paulette) Sylavong of Hoffman Estates, IL and grandchildren Metta, Jerry, Tom and Alexsia Khathakhanthaphixay.

Bounthanh was preceded in death by his father and sister Touy Sengsouvanh. Thongbay was preceded in death by her parents.

Bounthanh was a long-time elder in the local Laotian community; he advised and advocated for countless families including employment and housing. He also loved carpentry and helping others with home improvement. Thongbay was an avid gardener and loved cooking for their many friends and family. Their lives centered on taking care of their loved ones and each other. They will be deeply missed and will remain in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be from 5:30-8:30 pm on Friday, January 25, 2013. The funeral will be on Saturday at 12:30 pm, followed by cremation at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the family in c/o Renner-Wikoff Chapel. 1900 S. Philo Rd. Urbana, IL. 61802