Borikhanh John Khane

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Borikhanh John Khane, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, who left us on April 23, 2024 at the age of 46. 

John was born in Laos on December 27, 1977, to William and Padapsy Khane.  After immigrating to the United States in March of 1980, John grew up in Superior, WI. 
 He attended Cathedral School and graduated from Superior Senior High School in 1996.  Shortly after graduation he moved to Massachusetts making the Boston area, his home.  

Growing up Johnny wrestled, played baseball, but his favorite sport was basketball.  He enjoyed rooting for his favorite sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, but still cheered for the Green Bay Packers.  John enjoyed running, long walks by the ocean, going to the casino or taking drives in his Mini Cooper.  His nieces and nephews whom he loved shopping, playing, and bonding with were John's biggest joy.  His family knew him to live life to the fullest which was his best quality of all.

John was a custodian for the Boston Public Schools for over 20 years: including Hernandez, Hennigan, Trotter, Mozart,  and most recently Henry Grew Elementary School.  He loved the community at the Grew School because they were helpful and engaging.  John had said, "The staff are so supportive and parents always say nice compliments about how clean the school is."  In addition to being the custodian he served as a special guest reader during story time at Grew in which he commented, "It's cool to be part of this community and to help the students in that way."  John cared deeply for his school community and showcased that consistent dedication to his work that inspired all that knew him.

Our family would like thank the staff and students of Henry Grew Elementary for the "Celebration of Life" that was held at the school which included the GLAM tree planting, bubbles released by staff, and the Shorts and Hat Day, "because it's not that cold, well that's what John said."

John was a man of simple pleasures who found joy in the everyday wonders of life. He left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered, with his infectious laughter and his unique ability to find beauty in the commonplace. He was a beacon of resilience and positivity, and he will be remembered for his unwavering kindness and generosity.

John is survived by his father, William Khane of Gardner, MA; three sisters, Douangchanh Boupha and her husband Boonmy, of Gardner,  Joan Khane, of Gardner and Susan Khane of Gardner; three brothers; James Khane and his wife Mai, of Brooklyn Park, MN, Andy Khane and his wife Homara, of Gardner, Paul Khane and his wife Sherry, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, and many loved and cherished nieces and nephews and dear friend James "Jimbo" Carvalho.  He is preceded in death by his loving mother, Padapsy, niece, Kayla, great-nephew, Niko, and his fur babies Ginger and Stinky.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours at Mack Family Funeral Homes, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA  01440 on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.  A Buddhist prayer will be held from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. prior for anyone who wants to attend.  A funeral service will be held at the same location the following day, Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. with a cremation service at Michaud Funeral Home in Wilton, NH to follow.  There will be a luncheon to follow after the cremation service at the family's home in Gardner, MA.

As we mourn the loss of Borikhanh John Khane, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he led. He was a remarkable individual whose spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of John on his memorial page, as a way to remember and honor his life.

Kevin J. Mack Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors