Chio Chan Saelee

Chio Chan Saelee was known as a doting wife, supportive mother and a loving grandmother. She passed away peacefully, on March 14th, at the age of 64. Those who know and love Chio describe her as a caring and selfless soul, her kindness was contagious and her memory will live on forever. Born on February 10th, 1959 her parents then immigrated from Laos in 1988. Chio, with her husband Lai Choy and their two kids, Kao and Mey. Shortly they added Nai and Vida and completed the family. In 1988 they arrived to San Jose, California fleeing communist regime. Their journey was treacherous but eventually became American citizens, what a blessing. Farming and living off the land is what she knew, she spent her work days on a strawberry and tomato farm. She relished the time she had in her own back yard and grew every kind of vegetables imaginable, she fed her family with her own fresh produce. In her life, she was very active in the Iu Mien community. She attended all the New Year's and Mien events, always lending a helping hand with cooking and preparations. Donating her time and effort to anyone in need, That is what her community is about. Wherever Chio was, her laughter could be heard around the room. But, most beloved of all to Chio, was her undying and fierce love for her family. She loved her kids, her love language was food. Anytime spent with her was cherished around the kitchen table. "Hotpot" was one of her favorite meals to make, she knew that would bring all her kids back in her home. Seeing the family enjoy her meal warmed her heart. All she ever wanted was to see her children happy and flourish. Chio was an admiring and attentive grandmother, never said no to babysitting even when she didn't feel well, she wouldn't have it any other way. Her eight grandchildren adored her, in her eyes, they can do no wrong. They were her greatest accomplishments in life. Above all, Chio was loved. Her devotion to her husband, Lai of 43 years is beautifully summarized by "Love does not mean you will always agree, see eye to eye, or never have an argument. It means despite the bad days you still can't see yourself without that person." Chio is survived by her husband Lai Choy and their children, spouses, and grandchildren; Kao and Molly Saelee and their children Kalvin, Alex, Logan, and Madelyn; Mey and Mark Rodrigues and their children Bowen and Bryson; Nai Saelee and his children Jaydon and Mia; and daughter Vida. Additional surviving family members include: Kao and Yien Saelee; Kao Chan and Muey Chio Saelee; Cheng Chan and Chan Kouie Saelee; Sou Chan and Nai Kwern Saelee; Lai Chan and Paul Chao; Khae Chan and Nai Meng Saelee. Chio is predeceased by her parents Eechan and Yien Hin Saelee. Viewing will be held 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Saturday, March 25th, 2023 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Graveside services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, March 25th, 2023 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Chio Chan Saelee

February 10, 1959 - March 14, 2023