In Memory of Choo Dey Charles

Obituary

Choo Dey Charles, age 87, passed away on April 3, 2026, at Wynn Hospital. He was born on September 19, 1939 in Burma.

Choo Dey was the son of Charles Shwin and was educated in Rangoon from 1967 to 1971, where he pursued studies as a Geography major at the university level.

In 1959, he married his beloved wife, Thaw Ray, in Insein.

Throughout his life, Choo Dey wore many hats and served his community with dedication and compassion. He worked with Nestlé NIDO, was also a teacher, interpreter/translator for refugees at the UN in Bangkok, a refugee camp leader, and author for Drum Publication. 

He was a faithful member of Karen Baptist Church.

Choo Dey had a deep love for writing and was known as a writer, poet, educator, and activist for Karen people and culture. His passion for preserving his heritage and uplifting others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He is survived by his seven daughters and three sons, along with many cherished grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 10, at 10:00 a.m. at Utica Karen Baptist Church on Clinton Road in New Hartford. Interment will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery on Oneida Street

Arrangements are entrusted to Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 1123 Court St., Utica.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made at fwefh.com