Oregon Public Broadcasting

Private First Class Tan Ngo was interred at the Willamette National Cemetery Friday. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports.

Ngo died last week while on patrol in Afghanistan. His vehicle was hit by a rocket propelled grenade and small arms fire.

Family and friends celebrated his life at a service, remembering him as a lively and loveable soul.

Julie Querido says her kids grew up with the family.

Julie Querido: “He was an angel on earth. He really was. He had the biggest kindest heart on the planet and anyone ever needed anything, he was always right there for them.”

The 20-year-old was born in Portland but went to Westview High in Beaverton. After graduation he served in the Job Corps and then decided to join the Army, with the idea of furthering his education.

He had been in Afghanistan two months at the time of his death.