Laota Saelee

Laota Saelee, 86, of Albert Lea, MN and formerly of Mt. Lake, MN died June 2, 2023, in Albert Lea.

A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m., Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Sturm Funeral Home in Mt. Lake. Private burial will be held at a later date at Mt. Lake Cemetery. Sturm Funeral Home, Mt. Lake Chapel is assisting the family.

Laota was born October 10, 1936, to Olom and Migner Lee in Laos. In 1970, he married Thongvanh Saelee. Before coming to the US in 1986, Laota fought in the Vietnam War for the US. Together, they settled in Mt. Lake and raised five children.

In his free time, Laota enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking, playing cards, socializing with family and friends, and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

Laota is survived by his children, Singkham Saelee, Singkeo (Jerri Patao) Saelee, Saengthong (Annie) Saelee, La (Angela) Saelee, and Arlun (Josh) Wollack; 13 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild.

Laota was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Thongvanh in 2020; and a younger brother.