Wannee Sornkaw Birkenstock

In Loving Memory of Wannee Sornkaw Birkenstock

Wannee Sornkaw Birkenstock was born in Thailand on December 11, 1945. She passed away peacefully in Santa Monica, California, on January 31, 2025, at 79 years young, after a courageous nine-month battle with Glioblastoma. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering grace during this time were an inspiration to all who knew her. Wannee’s generous spirit and lifelong dedication to helping others left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

 Wannee was preceded in death by her parents, Sawad and Lamai. She is survived by her loving daughters, Shanna (Anthony) and Kara (Rick), her cherished grandchildren, John and Athena, her dear siblings, Vimon, Mukda, Vimarlee, Suwit, Somkiat, and Sompit, and her spouse, Norman. Her family was the heart of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Born in Khao Yoi, Thailand, Wannee was the eldest of seven siblings. She was raised in a traditional Thai household, where her mother’s talent for cooking and her father’s esteemed role as a police officer shaped her strong work ethic and deep sense of family. She received her early education in the Chumphon and Phetchaburi districts, graduating from the prestigious Aroonpradit School before moving to Bangkok to pursue career opportunities.

In the late 1960s, Wannee immigrated to the United States, driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and dreams of opening a Thai restaurant and a jewelry business. Her journey took her across the country, from New York City, where she attended Hunter College, to Portland, Oregon, before she eventually settled in Northern California’s Bay Area.

A dedicated businesswoman and avid traveler, Wannee founded VIP Travel to share her love of Thailand with others. She took great joy in organizing tours, curating unforgettable journeys, and introducing travelers to the breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and vibrant culture of her homeland. Her appreciation for different cultures extended beyond travel—she loved savoring diverse cuisines, enjoying fine wine, and embracing new experiences. Wannee also had a remarkable green thumb and a deep passion for gardening. With patience and care, she nurtured vibrant flowers and lush greenery, creating a garden that reflected her warmth and love for nature.

A devoted leader in the Thai community, Wannee served as President of the Thai Association of Northern California and built lasting friendships across the Bay Area. Her strong business presence in San Francisco and Half Moon Bay strengthened her ties within the community. She remained deeply connected to her Buddhist faith, dedicating herself for decades as a committed member of Wat Mongkolratanaram in Berkeley, CA.

In May 2024, Wannee was diagnosed with Glioblastoma following a fall at home. Despite surgery, treatment, and therapies, the cancer had already progressed too far, and its incurable nature made recovery impossible. Yet even in the face of these challenges, Wannee’s spirit remained strong. Doctors initially predicted she wouldn’t make it past the fall and certainly not to Christmas—but in true Wannee fashion, she defied the odds. Over the nine-month battle, Wannee underwent two major surgeries and six hospitalizations for various complications. She fought with grace and resilience, never once expressing pain or discomfort until her final weeks. Her perseverance gifted her family the chance to celebrate one last birthday with her, as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Though she couldn’t say the words, a gentle squeeze of the hand or the soft press of her lips against a loved one’s cheek spoke volumes.

Wannee’s beauty radiated from within. Her warm smile and kind eyes were a testament to the love she shared with those around her. Her legacy of compassion and selflessness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

May Wannee’s memory bring comfort and peace to all who loved her.