My name is Gloria Koh, and I am Jungmin Koh’s eldest daughter. On behalf of my family, thank you for being here today and for sending your condolences.

Jungmin Koh, the youngest of seven, was born on August 4, 1968 in Gunsan, South Korea. He graduated from theological seminary where he met and fell head over heels in love for my mum. After two years of dating, my mum chose to immigrate to the United States while my dad was completing his master’s degree. At the airport, my dad asked her to wait one year, and promised that he would come to find her. Despite his outspoken commitment, my mom didn’t believe him.

To her surprise, my dad kept his promise, and they happily married in 1992. I was born in 1994, and my younger sister Audrey was born five years later.

Jungmin Koh passed away on November 9, 2019. And to the end, he was a devoted husband. A few days before he was discharged from the hospital, he quietly admitted to my mom, “I’m actually not a 딸바보 (a fool for his daughters), I am a fool for you.” My mom wept upon hearing this, and promised that she would always cherish his commitment. My dad was also such a dedicated provider for my family, that I have a tough time when people ask about his occupation - it’s very hard to pick just one. Jungmin Koh was a computer specialist, English tutor, published writer, diplomatic translator, career consultant, political pundit, educational podcaster, photographer, professional golfer, and pastor; I’m sure I’ve missed something.

All my life, I have been conscious of my father’s immigrant sacrifice and occupational stress. And when my dad became terminally ill, I was anxious that he might pass away harboring regrets about his life in America. But my mom tells me he had absolutely none.
My father tried his hand at everything he ever wanted to do, as evidenced by his many titles, interests, and talents. It’s clear he was an extraordinary man who always pursued new opportunities and worked tirelessly to achieve his goals.

My father was a dreamer. And although he left us too early, we are certain that the people whose lives he touched will remember his dreams and carry on his legacy. His life may have been tragically cut short by cancer, but today, I’d like for us to remember and celebrate his many accomplishments and relationships.

I now understand what it means when we say someone will live on in our hearts. We face many challenges ahead as we, as a family and as individuals, navigate a world without my father. But, I am inspired, and always will be, by his tenacity and immovable sense of responsibility to take care of my loved ones. And I hope that you leave here today equally inspired to live as courageously and passionately as he did.