Anuroj "At" Ratanapool

Anuroj “At” Ratanapool passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at the age of 88, at his home in Dale City, Virginia. Born on October 24, 1937, in Bangkok, Thailand, Anuroj was the eldest of three siblings (sister Orapan Vongpoorpan and brother Thamrong “Tom” Ratanapool) born to his late father Tira Ratanapool and mother, Naengnoi Pusuwan. Anuroj traveled to the United States in March 1962 with his family and remained a resident until his passing. His childhood education and early college days began in Bangkok, Thailand at Thammasat University Law School. Upon arriving in the United States, he enthusiastically continued his educational journey, attending Columbia Union College in Takoma Park, MD, Lees College in Jackson, KY (where he earned an AA in Business), the University of Maryland in College Park (earning a BA in Business/Economics), and Central Michigan University (graduating with an MA in Business Management). Anuroj accepted a position as a translator for the US Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Ft. Bragg in Fayetteville, NC. While working in North Carolina, he met the love of his life, Chawpaga, who is also a native of Thailand. They were united in marriage on August 12, 1968. From this lifelong love story, a daughter, Chutima, was born in 1969. Anuroj dedicated 31 years of loyal service as a Student Advisor at the Thai Embassy in Washington, DC, retiring in 1999. Even after formal retirement, he continued to contribute his expertise internationally, working in Thailand as a Management Consultant and an Assistant Representative to the Parliament. Anuroj’s life was abundant with adventure, laughter, love, and a charming touch of mischief. Every now and then, his family would catch him hiding in a corner of the kitchen, quietly sneaking Cheetos and drinking Coke or Red Bull. He was an incredibly talented golfer and a proud member of the Thai Golfers Association. During his downtime, he loved relaxing by listening to music, reading, watching tennis, golf, and cheering for the Washington Commanders. Above all, his family will deeply cherish his playful spirit, his sense of humor that stayed with him throughout his life, and his remarkable ability to remain calm and take everything in stride. He gave his family not only his love, but a lifetime of beautiful memories—from fun beach vacations to joyful family gatherings. Known affectionately as 'Khun Tah', he played a significant part in the lives of his granddaughters, Kayla and Lena. He believed in the value of education and encouraged his granddaughters to pursue knowledge, work hard, and never stop learning. These traditions and memories will be treasured for generations. Among their most cherished keepsakes are the old letters he wrote to Chawpaga, offering a timeless glimpse into the commi tment that anchored their decades together. He is survived by his beloved wife, Chawpaga; his daughter Chutima (husband Lynwood); his brother Thamrong (wife Laurie); his grandchildren Kayla (husband Darrion) and Lena; his sister-in-law Chantana Pibulpanuvat; and a wonderful host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting monetary contributions. “Man’s body turns to dust, but his influences remain.” — The Buddha

Tributes

Anuroj "At" Ratanapool

August 2, 2026