Phong Phen

Phong Phen, age 68, of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in Rochester.

Phong was born on January 5, 1957, in Battambang, Cambodia, to Khorng Phen and Lam Phann. In 1983 he made his home in Rochester, where he built a life defined by faith, hard work, and devotion to family.

For over 42 years, Phong was a respected local jeweler and master goldsmith, admired for his unmatched craftsmanship and artistry. Beyond his workbench, he was a true handyman-updating his home he loved; skilled in drywall, plumbing, flooring, landscaping, and more. Yet, his greatest work was always for his family. He poured his effort and time to unconditionally provide, protect, and created a sanctuary that would always be a place of safety, love, and belonging for all.

Phong was a faithful member of the Cambodian Church of the Nazarene and Emmanuel Baptist Church. His generosity radiated beyond his family. From organizing fundraisers towards individuals in his homeland Cambodia to supplying rides for members of the church so an entire community could worship, showing up for God together. He also was an avid fisherman and although catching walleye was just a hobby, he made use of that skill by delivering fresh fish to widows in the congregation. He served quietly and faithfully, without expectation of recognition or reciprocation-grounded in his conviction that the Lord's communion was central to his faith and way of life.

As a son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle- Phong went above and beyond in ways both big and small. He worked tirelessly so his children never went without, crafted jewelry keepsakes that will be cherished for generations, and found joy in every chance to care for his grandchildren. He loved deeply, provided steadfastly, and gave generously, often creating what can only be described as everyday miracles for those he loved.

Phong adored his parents and siblings. Road trips to California for visiting family remain among his most sentimental memories. Even the smallest moments-like navigating a paper map-reflected his quiet strength, determination, and perseverance.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pheap Phen, whose unwavering love for him was fully returned in their life together; children Michael (Saron) Phen, Khaody Phen, and Phillida (Jonathan) Lockett; grandchildren Kayla Phen, Kaycee (Alisa) Phen, Naya Phen, Taylor Phen, Johana Lockett, and Aziel Vutha; and siblings Ryan (Pauline) Phen, Bophal Phen, Sophia (Bryon) Ross, and Eric (Sorn Yang) Phen.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Maxon Family Cremation & Life Celebrations 1624 37th Street NW, Rochester, MN 55901. A luncheon and graveside burial will follow.

Phong's life was a testimony of faith, generosity, and resilience. He will be remembered as a man who gave everything of himself and made the ordinary extraordinary-leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and strength that will live on through his family and community.