La-Iad Ann Mizer

La-Iad Ann Mizer lived life to its fullest.  Her vibrant personality illuminated every room she entered.

La-Iad was born in Bangkok, Thailand on August 2, 1939.  She often told stories of life growing up in Thailand where one of her early jobs was helping her mother apply gold leaf to the Buddhist Temples.  She had the opportunity to travel back to Thailand a few times with family and she always enjoyed going to the open air markets and eating all of the delicious food that various vendors were offering.

In 1965, La-Iad met the love of her life, Frank, while attending an English class he was teaching in Bangkok.  Within a few months they were married and moved to Denver, Colorado where Frank had been raised.  In 1973 she moved to Kirkland, WA where she lived out the remainder of her life. 

In 1982, La-Iad realized her dream of opening a Thai restaurant on 2^nd Ave in Seattle.  Called Rama House, it played a significant role in introducing Thai cuisine to the city.  She earned the nick-name, Rama Mama, and this endearing name is still used in reference to her legacy.  Rama Mama was often found at local festivals serving up her famous Phad Thai and Chicken Curry.  In 1988, she opened a second restaurant in Post Alley called Rama on Post.

La-Iad had a passion for socializing in all types of circles.  She always made an impression on those she met as she had the ability to make conversation with nearly everyone seem effortless.  Many first time encounters developed into sincere friendships or lifelong friends.  A true statement of character was her ability to show genuine interest in every person she had the pleasure of meeting.  She enjoyed life with a good sense of humor and adventure.  She loved to travel and had visited Italy, Hawaii, Mexico and Thailand in recent years.

La-Iad passed away surrounded by loved ones on December 31, 2013.  She is survived by her sons, Tum and Mark, daughters Dara, Cholada, Oye and Michelle.  Grandmother to Tino, Justin, Julio, Aiden, Frankie and Abigail.  Sister to Hong and Toi.

A memorial service will be held at Golden Gardens Bathhouse, 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA 98117, on Sunday, January 26, 2014, at 2:00 PM. A Celebration of Life reception will immediately follow.  Friends and Family of all ages are invited to attend.  Remembrances can be made as donations towards a memorial bench located at Juanita Beach.  Donations are accepted in the form of cash or check payable to City of Kirkland.