Cau A Ly, 75, of Oak Park, died on April 3, 2026. Born in 1951 in Hai Ninh Province in northern Vietnam to a Chinese family, Cau’s early life was shaped by the movement and upheaval of war. When Vietnam was split between North and South in 1954, his family relocated to Tung Nghia in the Central Highlands. Despite frequent separation and hardship, Cau showed remarkable determination from a young age, working to ensure that both he and his younger brother, Lawrence, could pursue their education in Dalat and later in Saigon.
While working at the U.S. Embassy in Saigon, Cau met the love of his life, Huong. They married in late 1974. Shortly thereafter in April 1975, as the war came to an end, they immigrated to the United States as refugees with Cau’s younger brother.
With the generous support of First United Methodist Church, Cau and Huong settled in Oak Park, where they built a new life. He graduated from Northeastern University in Chicago and enjoyed a long and successful career as a highly skilled systems and database engineer at EDS, known for his dedication and integrity.
Outside of work, he found joy in nurturing his garden, learning new recipes to cook, and reading historical military fiction. Above all, he treasured time spent with his grandchildren, Lucy and Carmine, who were a constant source of pride and happiness.
Cau is survived by Huong, his devoted wife of 51 years; his daughters, Van and Joanne; and his beloved grandchildren, Lucy and Carmine. He will be remembered for his resilience and quiet strength.
Services were held at Zimmerman Harnett Funeral Home in Forest Park on April 10.