Kitivesh Pasookhush

Retired Lieutenant General Kitivesh "Rick" Pasookhush, age 81, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He was born on May 12, 1944, in Ayutthaya, Thailand, where he was also raised.

From a young age, General Pasookhush distinguished himself through exceptional intelligence, discipline, and determination. After completing the 10th grade, he earned the highest placement for a scholarship to a Thai military preparatory school. Following his graduation, he achieved second place on the national entrance examination and was awarded a full scholarship to Norwich University in Vermont, USA.

While at Norwich University, he was a standout member of the university’s soccer team and a respected athlete among his peers. He pursued and completed a rigorous double major, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Upon graduation, he returned to Thailand to serve his country as an officer in the Royal Thai Army.

During his military career, he collaborated closely with the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He continued to serve with distinction in the Royal Thai Army for decades, ultimately retiring with the rank of Lieutenant General. In addition to his leadership roles, he was a skilled helicopter and airplane pilot—an achievement that reflected both his technical mastery and fearless spirit.

Beyond his military service, General Pasookhush was a fiercely competitive athlete and a passionate golfer. He was a proud member of the Thai Army Golf Team and was widely known as “the one to beat” on the course. He also found great joy in fishing, shrimping, crabbing, and gardening—simple pleasures that reflected his quiet, grounded nature.

Above all else, he was a devoted family man. He was courageous, honorable, dignified, and supremely intelligent, yet gentle in demeanor. A fixer of all things, he approached life with patience, selflessness, and unwavering determination. To his family, he was the best father—loving, caring, and deeply present. He absolutely adored his grandchildren, and his legacy lives on through countless cherished moments.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Punnee “Dang” Pasookhush; his daughter, Dr. Megan Pasookhush, her husband Derek Register, and their son Dylan Register; his son Palakorn “Golf” Pasookhush, his wife Nataree, and their daughter Charlotte Pasookhush; and his son Bovornsak “Game” Pasookhush.

Retired Lieutenant General Kitivesh Pasookhush lived a life defined by honor, service, excellence, and love. His legacy will continue through the family he cherished, the lives he influenced, and the values he embodied.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00pm on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at J. M. Dunbar Funeral Home & Crematory, 690 Southport Road, Roebuck, SC 29376.