Phi-Khanh Joseph Tieskoetter
July 4, 1973 - November 7, 2024
Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Phi-Khanh Joseph Tieskoetter, who died unexpectedly on November 7, 2024, at the age of 51. Phi-Khanh was born on July 4, 1973, in Gia Dinh, Vietnam. At a very young age, his family moved to the United States and called Seattle their home for most of his life.
Phi-Khanh was married to his high school sweetheart, Brandy Tieskoetter, for 29 years. Their love story began 34 years ago and was a beautiful tapestry woven with over three decades of shared laughter, support, and devotion. Together they raised three wonderful children: Hailey, Mason, and Makenzie. He is also survived by his mother, Jennifer Abernethy, brother, Phi-Long Tieskoetter, and sister Judy Le.
After college, Phi-Khanh went straight to work for Audi, where he had a remarkable 25-year career. His drive and expertise led him to transition to his dream job as an Integration Engineer at Blue Origin. As his youngest child would proudly say, “My daddy builds spaceships.” Phi-Khanh was truly passionate about his work and loved everything related to space. He was a walking encyclopedia of knowledge regarding space travel, planets, stars, black holes, you name it. He could talk space for hours with anyone who would listen. His enthusiasm for space was contagious, and his commitment to his work at Blue Origin was unwavering.
Above all, Phi-Khanh will be remembered as a loving father who dedicated himself to his children’s lives. Whether it was taking them camping and fishing, coaching soccer and volleyball, or proudly supporting his daughter’s dance competitions, Phi-Khanh was always there, a constant source of support, encouragement, and pride. He was a patient teacher, a force coaching on the field or court, and the most enthusiastic presence in every audience, cheering the loudest for his children. They were his pride and joy and the drive behind everything he did.
Phi-Khanh’s love of sports extended to his own passions as well. He was an avid Sounders, Seahawks, and MMA fan, rarely missing a game or match. He also had a great love for cars and racing. His extensive mechanical knowledge was a gift passed down by his late father, Leroy, and showed in the rebuilding and tuning of his prized old Ford Ranger Truck. He was a brilliant, resourceful problem solver, a natural leader, and known for his ability to fix ANYTHING. His humor, confidence, and contagious laugh lit up any room he entered. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, and his friends knew him to be a loyal, supportive companion who was always there when you needed him.
A hardworking provider, protector, dedicated father, loving husband, and true friend, Phi-Khanh was one of a kind. He was a bright light in this world and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the stories of his remarkable life.
Funeral services to honor Phi-Khanh’s life will be held at St Philomena Catholic Church in Des Moines, WA on Friday, December 6th at 11:00 am. A reception will be held on-site in the Parish Hall immediately following.
It is with the deepest condolences that I write this — Phi is such a loving husband, father, daddy, friend. He is by far one of the brightest shining stars in Heaven. If hugs could make everything easier I would give you one thousand! Praying for Peace and Comfort during this beyond difficult time for you all. With love,
A beautiful tribute for a wonderful person. His legacy will live on through his loving family ❤️
The best Dad a girl could ever ask for. The most hardworking, humble, dedicated, and funny man I have ever met. Thank you for giving me the best life, showing me how to love, be passionate about life, be strong in the hard times, and to always put family first. I cannot put into words how loved and special you were to everyone around you. You were truly for the benefit of Earth. I will love you forever and ever. Life will never be the same without you, and I can’t wait until I get to see you again. 🤍🚀