Bunthid “Oot” Kusumpa, who grew flowers, herbs and Thai peppers in his garden and fed the birds, chipmunks and squirrels that visited his yard each day, died peacefully. He was 84.
Shortly after he graduated from university in Bangkok, he met his future wife, Sukon “Mia,” beginning 58 years together.
Gardening, fitness and caring for wildlife were his true passions, his family wrote. Along with vegetables and herbs, he grew the occasional pumpkin, and he took pride in sharing the harvest. He made time every day for racquetball.
Some of his happiest moments came from bringing people together to celebrate, watching his grandchildren, traveling and attending Thai temple and cultural events.
He is survived by his wife, Sukon “Mia” Kusumpa; his sons, Plavouth “Jim” Kusumpa (Diane Meechai-Kusumpa) and Soothesuk “Don” Kusumpa (Waew Ratanaudom); his grandchildren, who called him “Poo” (Grandpa), Henry, Ben, Oliver, Jack, Emma, Eliot and Sophia; many siblings, including his sisters, Sompun “Meow,” “Dang” and Sopar “Mook” Davies; his nephew and niece, Jeff (Laura) Davies and Lynn (Kevin) Robertson; many cousins, including Moung (Gaew); and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his son, Yuthama “Boomie” Kusumpa (Lisa Kusumpa).
Visitation: Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, 1 to 2 p.m. at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Ave., Justice, Illinois.
Funeral: Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, 2 p.m. Buddhist chant service at the funeral home. Cremation rites will be accorded.