Cam Nguyen

In Loving Memory of Cam Van Nguyen

April 20, 1944 – May 24, 2025

The world got a little quieter on May 24, 2025, when Cam Van Nguyen—devoted husband, loving father, brilliant educator, history buff, proud Vietnamese-American, and legendary Jeopardy fan—peacefully passed away at the age of 81.

Born in Nam Dinh, Vietnam, on April 20, 1944, to Hoach The Le and Lung Van Nguyen, Cam lived through some of the most turbulent chapters of modern history, and yet he always met life with a calm smile, a clever joke, and a mind sharp as a tack. He pursued knowledge with relentless curiosity, earning his first master’s degree in English from Saigon University before journeying to the U.S. to continue his education. At San Francisco State University, he earned not one but two more master’s degrees—in Education and Economics. (Because, why stop at one?)

He spent decades shaping young minds both in Saigon and San Francisco. From the classroom to the principal’s office, he made every hallway brighter. He served as Dean at George Washington High School, then Principal at the International Studies Academy, before finishing his career as Head of the Translation Department for the San Francisco Unified School District—a role that combined his love of language, education, and service to the community.

But while education was his career, it was far from his only passion.

He was a devout 49ers and Warriors fan—especially during the winning years (his loyalty had limits). He never missed an episode of Jeopardy! and could’ve given Ken Jennings a run for his money. He loved a good historical documentary, especially those about the Vietnam War, not only for the information, but because history was personal to him.

A man of simple joys and strong opinions: he adored driving his convertible with the top down (even if it was chilly), he never met a bowl of Pho Bo or Bun Cha Hanoi he didn’t like, and he considered food, not flowers, the true language of love. (Seriously, please—no flowers.) Above all, he was a devout Catholic whose faith in Jesus and love for the Church were cornerstones of his life. His spiritual devotion guided his every step and brought peace to his heart.

He had the kind of presence that filled a room—warm, curious, and endlessly approachable. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and leave them smiling. His memory was extraordinary, his jokes timeless, and his heart generous. He wasn’t the handiest man around the house (not even close), but he more than made up for it with wisdom, kindness, and that unforgettable laugh.

He is survived by the love of his life, Cynthia Hoa Nguyen; his children: Deborah Nguyen, Nicole Nguyen Brian Nguyen, Lan Anh Woodmansee and his siblings: Luong Thi Nguyen, Khoa Van Nguyen, and Luat Van Nguyen. He now joins his beloved parents, siblings and dogs, Mollee and Phinlee in peace and light.

A public viewing will be held on June 4th from 4–8 PM at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City.

Funeral Mass will take place on June 5th from 11 AM to 12 PM at Church of the Visitacion, 655 Sunnydale Avenue, San Francisco.

Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 22555 Cristo Rey Drive, Los Altos.

In lieu of flowers (he really meant that), please consider donating to the Blind Vietnamese Children Foundation, PO Box 27036, San Francisco—a cause close to his heart.

Though he’s gone, his stories, wisdom, and love will stay with us forever—like the best punchlines and the warmest meals, never forgotten.