Saya Allen Htay (C58) is a founding member of RIT Alumni International and served as its President.
He wrote “Brother, can you spare US $500 and more?” for the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (aka SPZP-2000).
Saya retired thrice, but his former students coaxed him to un-retire twice.
With the help of U Maurice Chee (M75), Daw Mu Mu Kin donated Saya’s books to YTU Library. The dedication ceremony took place at YTU on February 26, 2016.
Dr. Aung Than Ba Tu (“ATBT”, BMRI) succeeded Dr. Mya Tu as DG
U Aung Thein (John Yeo, M72, US) passed away in California
Daw Aye Aye Cho (LA)
U Ba Toke (Saya of our sayas, 100 years) passed away in Yangon
* Daw Brenda Gyi (Maths, UN, US) passed away in New York Fell ill while visiting ailing spouse in hospital Siblings : Daw Jacqueline Gyi (Maths), U Myint Htwe
Dr. Dhammapiya (Sayadaw, US, Myanmar) passed away in California Chief Resident Sayadaw, Mettananda Vihara, Castro Valley (formerly in Fremont), California Patron of several religious and educational organizations
U Han Sein (C69) passed away in Yangon Known as “Tone Kyaw Ah Pho Gyi” RIT Selected for Swimming, Water Polo, Diving and Basketball Prisoner of Conscience (served 17 years out of the 20 year sentence by Adhamma authorities)
Han Sein
Daw Hla Hla (Cousin) passed away in Yangon Daughter of maternal aunt Brothers : Dr. Kyaw Nyunt Koe, U Sein Tin, U Kyaw Kyaw Win
Daw Hla May (Anne, English) passed away in Yangon 100 year (or so) young Spouse : Saya U Ohn Khin (English) Son : H.E Dr. Pe Thet Khin (6-time Luyechun)
U Khin Aung Bo (BARB, MARB) passed away in Yangon Retired Saya Taught at BARB President, MARB
U Khin Aung Kyi (former RIT Rector) passed away in Yangon 7th in Burma in the Matriculation examination of 1949 BS and MS in Chemical Engineering from MIT Professor and Head, ChE at RIT Succeeded Dr. Aung Gyi as Rector Taught at Rengsit University, Bangkok
Daw Khin Aye Taw Tun (Marina Taw) passed away in Phillipines Daughter of U Hla Taw and Daw Marie Hla Taw Siblings : Daw Chicky Taw, Dr. Nyan Taw (SPHS63)
U Khin Maung Thein (ex-Minister of MOEE) passed away in Yangon
U Khin Maung Win (EP69) passed away in Yangon Fondly known as Sargalay, La Da and Galon Township Selection for Badminton (using experience as Training Partner for Sai Kham Pan, then Burma No 1 in Doubles and No 2 in Singles)
* Dr. Khin Tun (Peter, MRCP, UK) passed away in Reading, UK Son of U Tin U (most senior Past Captain of RUBC) and Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt (ex-BMRI, GBNF) Early casualty to COVID (sadly caused by controversial “Guideline” for the use of PPE) Former Associate Dean, Oxford University Will be the first to be awarded FRCP posthumously I chronicled events from Mid-April to May 2020
* Dr. Ko Ko Thant passed away in Yangon EENT Professor
U Kyaw Hlaing (PBRS) passed away in Yangon Brother : U Mya Hlaing (Moderator, FB Group)
U Kyaw Myint (Bedin) passed away in Maryland
U Kyaw Sein (M65, Saya) passed away in Singapore Expert : Mechanical Drawing, AutoCAD
* Dr. Kyaw Thein (Maths) passed away in Yangon was our Tutor in I.Sc.(A) Ph.D from Southampton University Taught Political Science in Regional College Former Principal, Sittwe College Retired Rector, ICST
U Kyi Soe (IC) passed away in Yangon Movie Actor Real Estate
U Myat Hla Sein (PBRS) passed away in an accident in Yangon Former Head of Yoke Shin / Movie Technology, RC2 Father : U Chin Sein (Shwe Nyar Maung)
* Dr. Myat Thu Ya (Surgeon) passed away in Yangon
U Myint Myat Oo (40+ years young) passed away in Myanmar Brother : U Htet Myet Oo
* Daw Myint Myint Yee passed away in Myanmar Spouse : U Myint Lwin (Vice President, MARB, GBNF)
U Myint Swe (69er) passed away in Myanmar Nickname: Bu Thee
U Myint Thin (M71, Luyechun, RUBC) passed away in Singapore
Dr. Myint Win (UK) passed away in UK (Probably) Old Paulian Parents own food shop in SPHS
* U Ngwe Tun (Civil, Saya) passed away in Myanmar Had a bookshop Spouse passed away 4 (or so) years ago Was staying with daughter
Daw Ni Ni Than (M74, Sayalay) passed away in Myanmar
U Nyunt Soe (SPHS, Swimming National Coach) Siblings : U Tin Soe (Johnny So Mg, RUBC), U Myint Soe (Willie, SPHS63, RUBC, BDS, GBNF), U Chit Soe and the Soe Sisters (Swimming Champions)
U Nyunt Win (Chemistry, Saya) Brothers : Dr. Ohn Kyaw (Chemistry), Dr. Myo Nyunt (Economics) Spouse : Dr. Khin Mar Tun (Chemistry)
U Ohn Maung passed away in Myanmar Son : U Nyunt Than (M86, UCC, BADA, NorCal RITAA)
Maung Pan Hmway (U Hla Myint) passed away in Myanmar Known for Postcard Kabyar
Daw San Yee passed away in Myanmar Mother of Ei Thet (Mrs. Htet Myet Oo)
Tekkatho Sein Tin (National Literary Award Winner) passed away in Myanmar
*Daw Shu Ti passed away in Yangon Spouse of Yi Pinn (M69, Dawei)
Dr. Soe Aung (SPHS66?, UK) passed away in UK
U Soe Nyunt (SPHS, Taw Win Hnin Si) passed away in Yangon “Recovered” the SPHS Honor Roll (which disappeared after nationalization) 69er Monthly Gatherings were mostly held at “Royal Rose”
Daw Swe Swe Win
Daw Than Than Nwe (Dolly Sein, EP72) passed away in Yangon Spouse : U Thein Swe (EP69) Brother : U Ohn Maung (Anthony Sein, ChE68)
Dr. Thin Thin (82 years young) passed away in Myanmar Brother : Saya U Moe Aung (EE)
U Tin Myint (M, Singapore) Sponsor of YTU student
U Tin Nyunt (retired Saya, Zoology)
U Tin Tun passed away in Yangon in May 2020 Spouse : Daw Aye Aye Khin Brother : Dr. Mg Mg Gyi (SPHS63, GBNF)
U Tommy (69er, EP) passed away in Myanmar Moulmein, Basketball
U Win Myint Maung (N Jar Thaing, E71 Intake) passed away in Yangon
U Win Tin (Chein Hoe, PBRS) passed away in Yangon Uncle : U Kyaw Zaw
U Yan Paing Soe passed away in Yangon Ah Nu Pyinnya Shin
Elder son of U Maung Maung Kyi (SPHS63, Chemical Engineering from Dresden University, GBNF) and Daw Khin May Than (ChE72).
Sad to lose an accomplished “Rescue Team Leader”.
Sad Event
It occurred on February 15, 2013.
Squadron Leader Dr. Rimon Than (Ko Yi Htet), elder son of U Maung Maung Kyi (SPHS 63, RUBC) and Daw Khin May Than (ChE 72) from Wales, passed away during a mountaineering training in Scotland due to an avalanche. He is a squadron leader in Royal Air Force (RAF) and also a doctor and an experienced mountain climber.
Maung Maung Kyi and Khin May Than were in Yangon at the time. They had to fly back to Wales to attend the funeral service with military honors.
Maung Maung Kyi was my classmate at St. Paul’s High School and I.Sc.(A). We rowed together at RUBC. He studied Chemical Engineering (Pulp & Paper) at Dresden University, Germany. He was a best man at our wedding.
Visit to Wales
In 2017, we visited UK.
My cousin nephew Dr. Khin Tun (Peter, GBNF) drove us to Wales to visit Maung Maung Kyi and Khin May Than at their new home Ogmore-by-the-sea.
Maung Maung Kyi
Updates
Dr. “Peter” Khin Tun (MRCP, Former Associate Dean of OxfordUniversity) was a victim of Covid-19 and the lax Guidelines of NIH. He passed away on April 13, 2020. The news and TV coverage about the sad story led to reevaluation of procedures and support for NIH doctors and staff combating Covid.
Maung Maung Kyi passed away peacefully in November 2024. His younger sisters — Dr. Kyi Kyi Hla, Daw Khin Thitsar and Dr. Khin Sabai — performed Soon Kwyay Dana for the 1st Anniversary of Maung Maung Kyi’s demise.
Soon Kyway
Memories
Khin Sabai, Khin May Than & Mg Mg Kyi Top Matriculates from SPHS 1963SPHS Std VIII (A) Mg Mg Kyi 1 Mg Mg Kyi 2
Conventional wisdom says, “Pyauk thor thu shar hlyin tway. Thay thor thu kyar hlyin mae.” ပျောက်သောသူ ရှာလျှင်တွေ့။ သေသောသူ ကြာလျှင်မေ့။ One may find a lost person. One tends to forget those who have passed away.
Unconventional wisdom says, “We should maintain GBNF (Gone But Not Forgotten) lists as part of the Written History of our beloved alma mater, our mentors and colleagues.”
We use GBNF in the “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” and in my Posts. Other posts may provide additional information for the entries in the GBNF (by period or year) posts.
Others use RIP (Rest in Peace), and BFHA (Bound For Higher Abode)
First RIT Website
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) set up three GBNF pages on ex-RIT.org web site :
GBNF for sayas and sayamas
U Ba Hli
GBNF for alumni
GBNF for spouses
I used GBNF in the last stanza of my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” for SPZP-2000. The poem was reprinted as the Back Cover of Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for SPZP-2000. It was only reprinted by the Class of 69 and Combined 1st BE intake of 64 and 65.
Poem for SPZP-2000
GBNF by School & Class
GBNF for the Class of 69
U Aung Min (M69) reported close to 120 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. About 320 students entered the first ever 2nd BE. The list includes a few seniors who took sabbatical in their study and ended up as our classmates. Over 40% of our former classmates have passed away.
Four EC69ers have passed away :
U Kyaw Soe (DCA)
U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, Schlumberger)
U Aung Thu Yein
U Chit Tin (MOGE)
U Chit Tin & Maung Kabar
U Oo Kyaw Hla (Canada)
Due to the decline of health, the 69ers chose to have two Golden Jubilees : the first in 2014 to celebrate the admission to RIT, and the second in December 2019 to celebrate the graduation of most members in 1969.
69ers GBNF
GBNF for the Class of 70
U Ohn Khine (M70) reported close to 120 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 70.
Tommy Shwe, Cho Aye, Peter Pe and Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay) were among the Top Ten students from the class. They are now GBNF.
Tommy ShweSteeve Kay (Thaung Sein)Cho Aye
Over 450 students entered the first ever 1st BE.
GBNF from PPBRS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from PPBRS have passed away.
U Kyaw Zaw & Daw Khin Khin Aye
Among my PPBRS classmates, Myo Set (son of actor Tha Gaung Gyi) was the first to pass away. He perished in a car accident. Myint Sein (Veda) and Myat Hla Sein (Movie Tech) are among the recent GBNF from PPBRS.
Myat Hla Sein
GBNF from SPHS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from SPHS have passed away. Sayadaw Beatson (Physics, Boy Scouts) is still active and strong.
SPHS Sayas
Among my SPHS classmates, Min Thaw (Gilbert, SPHS63) is among the early ones to pass away. Dr. Myo San (Freddie), Aung Thu Yein (Brownie), Tin Tun, Maung Maung Kyi, Aung Kyi (Arthur Kyi), Khin Maung Bo (Alan Saw Maung), Aung Chaw (Victor) are among the GBNF from SPHS63.
Myo San (Freddie)Maung Maung Kyi Soon Kyaw by Kyaw Wynn
69er GBNF
The GBNF list maintained by U Aung Min (M69) contains 138 of my RIT classmates. About 20 succumbed to Covid. Some had medical problems.
Khin Maung Win (Sargalay)
GBNF from UCC & ICST
Several of my sayas, colleagues and former students have passed away.
CO Hla Min (Pauk Si) is an early GBNF from UCC. U Aung Zaw, Daw Nge Ma Ma Than, U Maung Maung Lay (Ah Ba), U Aung Myint and U Maung Maung Gyi are among the recent GBNF from UCC.
Dr. Chit Swe & U Aung ZawDr. Tin Maung & Daw Nge Ma Ma ThanU Maung Maung Lay & U Maung Maung GyiCO U Hla Min, U Aung Myint, U Aung Zaw
Tone Kyaw တုံးကျော်
One should have Samvegha (sense of urgency) after hearing the sad news. When my namesake Hla Min (Pauk Si, SPHS64, EP70) passed away in his mid-thirties, we were shocked since he seemed strong and did not wear jackets (mandated for UCC employees entering the Computer Room). He would often be seen in sport shirts. He passed away with a few months of being diagnosed with liver problem. The consultant doctor was Dr. Min Lwin (Maurice Hla Kyi, SPHS64, IM71). Ko Pauk Si was not a drinker, but other causes inflicted his liver. I became a Tone Kyaw when two government departments where I had given Guest Lectures on Computers and Applications tried to send me “Lwan Thu Pan Khwe” လွမ်းသူ့ပန်းခွေ
U Han Sein (C69) became a Tone Kyaw when the Organizers of the 30th Anniversary of Graduation inadvertently listed him in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. The organizers were unaware that U Han Sein was detained by the authorities after the 8-8-88 event. He resurfaced two decades later with the declaration of Amnesty.
Han Sein
Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63) became a Tone Kyaw when his namesake Saya Dr, Tin Hlaing (formerly of Maritime Studies) passed away. Some alumni had to revoke the wrong announcement.
Spouse of Dr. Peter Tun (Khin Tun, my cousin nephew)
During our visit to UK in September 2017, they hosted us
Peter & Win Mar
Peter was working at the NHS hospital and at a private clinic. He would show us around late in the evening (e.g. River Thames).
Tribute to Peter
Trip to Wales
On the week end Peter drove us to Ogmore-by-the-sea in Wales to visit Maung Maung Kyi & Khin May Than.
Trip to Ogmore-by-the-sea
Guide
She would be our guide during the week days.
We took bus and train to see Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace & tourist attractions. Since she had been to those places many times, she would patiently wait for us near the entrance / exit gate. As seniors, we received discount on the bus and train fares.
She keeps fit by massaging her feet in a bucket full of salt. She also climbs up and down the stairs to do her chores (cooking, washing, drying clothes in the backyard).
Chefs
Both are outstanding Chefs.
She is selective in eating food. She prefers Burmese specialties over Chinese, Indian & British food (with the exception of “Fish and Chips” sold at the shop owned by Peter’s assistant).
Love Story
With young Min Ko
She would tell stories (esp. to my spouse).
When she was working as a teacher in Hlegu, Peter would come over with a food container. Guess what. Peter brought mashed potatoes not knowing that she did not have appetite for non-Burmese food.
Later, they regained contact by chance at the Chauk Htutt Yone (6-storey Govt. office).
Peter asked her for a date.
He handed over a 7-page “Yee Zar Sar”. Win Mar appreciated the Open Book approach. Peter listed his puppy love, current & potential suitors.
Peter agreed to settle in Mezaligone. They spent a long time there.
Peter’s sayas & friends finally suggested him to study for MRCP.
2020
Covid
In late March, Peter told me that COVID-19 had hit UK, but Reading did not have many cases.
Nevertheless, he showered every day (before & after work) as a precaution.
He treasured Win Mar’s health.
Then, we heard bad news. Five of Peter’s patients tested positive for COVID-19. Peter was asked to “self isolate” at his home.
Per his brother, sister & nieces, Peter felt confident that he would be victorious.
After a week, Peter’s health declined and was admitted to ICU.
A few days later, Win Mar had fever and cough. Min Ko & Ye Lay (who could not visit the house due to the “self-isolation”) called ambulance. The medics checked Win Mar and suggested to wait a few days.
Hospitalization
Peter passed away on April 13.
Win Mar was taken to the hospital for observation & treatment.
Her health and appetite returned. She requested “Fish and Chips”. It was a sign that she still have a good memory. Her friends (esp. Ma Theingi) cooked Burmese meals.
She was discharged on April 29.
She was able to attend the service for Peter on April 30.
She spoke with Cho Cho Hlaing (Peter’s youngest aunt) in the video conference, “Peter was born on a Monday and passed away on a Monday. He must have run out of his life span. KAN KONE LOH SONE THWAR DA. ကံကုန်လို့ ဆုံးသွားဒါ”
Win Mar now has close company of of her sons Ye Lay and Min Ko (who still had lease for a flat 5 minutes away).
They offered One Month Soon Kyway to Birmingham Sayadaw U Ottara Nyana.
They also celebrated Ye Lay’s birthday a few days later.
Peter & Win Mar at Min Ko’s Wedding Reception
Updates
After attending Min Ko’s wedding reception, Peter’s relatives — aunt, uncle, brother, cousins — had a gathering in Sydney.
Peter chose to fly back to UK to take care of his patients. Sadly, he might have been infected by a patient.
Peter was looking forward to his retirement and the day when he would be a proud grandpa.
Win Mar has a consolation prize. She could spend quality time with her two granddaughters.
She is Peter’s younger sister and Ye Myint’s older sister.
She graduated with B.Com and completed her CPA.
In an early assignment to Upper Burma, she found her love life Ko Tin Tun — younger brother of my former SPHS classmate Dr. Maung Maung Gyi (GBNF). They have two daughters : Thin Thiri Tun (Honey, electronics engineer in Singapore) and Khin Sandy Tun (Pu Tu, medical doctor).
Since Peter and Ye Myint were working in UK, Aye Aye and Pu Tu looked after U Tin U and Ma Cherry. About a year and a half ago, Ko Tin Tun developed a problem that required medical treatment in Singapore and Yangon.
Peter monitored the health of his parents and Ko Tin Tun (via calls with Aye Aye and Pu Tu).
Peter told Aye Aye not to worry about Pu Tu’s future. He would sponsor Pu Tu to study MRCP in UK.
Before Peter was hospitalized, Aye Aye and Pu Tu had a daily conversation with Peter, who continued to advise on Ko Tin Tun’s failing health. Peter appeared to be in high spirits.
It was an unpleasant surprise to learn about Peter’s demise — the second loss in the family within a few months.
Due to the pandemic, Pu Tu could not go to Bangkok to take her PLAP examination. As a blessing in disguise, Pu Tu could take care of her father.
Aye Aye and Pu Tu do not have time and energy to share their memories of Peter. They miss Peter badly.
Peter loved Pu Tu very much because she took care of Ma Cherry and wanted to help Pu Tu with her career.
Aye Aye thanks Honey for reminding them that sorrow is a form of DOSA and to overcome sorrow with vipassana meditation.
Daw Ohnmar Khin
Dear Peter
It’s now a month since you left us. It just doesn’t seem real you are gone. Please know you have touched the lives of every one who have known you with your kindness and generosity of spirit . I consider myself so very lucky to have had time with you, to listen to all your good health advices, your teaching me about vipassana meditation, how we shared funny & memorable stories about our grandparents & ancestors – as passed down by our Mums. You were a pillar of strength to your family & now your legacy lives on in your two wonderful sons, who have become the pillars of strength for their Mum. You were a big part in our close knit circle of first cousins from The U Tin Gyi Family Clan from your Mum’s side. We shall always remember you in our hearts & minds. I will always remember what a wonderful & devoted son you were to your beloved parents – how your Mum would not let anyone cut her hair except you. How you would take every opportunity to make her happy from thousands of miles away. Thardu Thardu Thardu. RIP Peter, I know you have gone to a better and higher abode. Missing you so much-
Love – Ma Ma Ohnmar
Photo Card by U Tin Htoon
Tribute to PKT
Daw Toni Than
She is the daughter of U Sett Khaing and Daw Sarah Tin Gyi. She is the Oldest among the 20+ Tin Gyi cousins. She would call her two youngest maternal aunts as Ma Ma Tin and Ma Ma Tu.
She studied English Honors and taught at RIT. She was a leading member of the RIT Scrabble Club which produced Champions like Saya Des (now in Canada) and Saya U Khin (now in Taiwan).
She joined her spouse H.E. U Nyi Than (GBNF) during his diplomatic missions abroad. They have a son and a daughter.
Upon her return to Myanmar, she taught at International / Private Schools. She stays mentally active by playing Scrabble and Bridge.
I met her at the RIT SPZPs and recently when her beloved Ma Ma Tu passed away late last year. She was accompanied by two cousins : Diana and Tessa.
The following is a note she sent to to her cousin Ye Myint in UK.
Tomorrow is one month of my cousin Peter’s passing. I want to share with you all, an incident that will forever be embedded in my heart and mind. My son Ye Min had dysentery and within hours, in front of our very eyes started to look gaunt with sunken eyes due to loss of fluid etc. I was frantic and then Peter came to the rescue. He stayed with him, administering drip till he was stable. He saved my son’s life, calming me down at the same time. He was that kind of person. I still can’t get over his loss. Peter, Rest in Peace.
Daw Cho Cho Hlaing
U Tin U (Peter’s father) is the eldest of 9 siblings.
Ma Cho is the youngest. Her mother told her many stories.
I heard a few from her last night.
There was a “Taya Pwe တရားပွဲ” by Mohnin Sayadaw မိုးညှင်းဆရာတော် at the “Maida Kwinn မိုင်ဒါကွင်း”. There was a large crowd. Mo Cho’s mother and aunt are devotees of sayadaw. Ma Cherry’s mother also was also a devotee. Young Ma Cherry and Ma Olga dressed as yogis would accompany her mother. Ma Cherry could not find her mother among the crowd. She ran into Ma Cho’s aunt and then cried. Little did both realize that with “Yay Set ရေစက်” both would be related by marriage later.
U Tin Gyi (Ma Cherry’s father) was highly respected as Commissioner of Cooperatives and received awards. He was building a new house in Windermere Road for his large family. He went to UK to attend a meeting but passed away unexpectedly. His son U Sway Tin collected his ashes to be brought back home. Ma Cherry’s mother did not want to leave her old house. So the new house was sold to Dr. Chan Taik.
Ma Cho studied Chemistry and worked at Central Research Organization.
She organized donation drives to selected monasteries. For several years, she hosted a weekly meditation sitting.
She wrote an article for “Neikbeinda Taung နိဗ္ဗိန္ဒတောင်” in Prome / Pyay ပြည် where several relatives took refuge during the war.
She also wrote an article named “Windermere Hma Kyee See Than ဝင်ဒါမီယာမှကြေးစည်သံ” for “Wi Thudha Yone Kyaung ဝိသုဒ္ဓာရုံကျောင်း”. It described the “Ah Yone Soon Kyee Laung အာရုဏ်ဆွမ်းကြီးလောင်း” initiated by U Kyaw Thaung and team.
Jessica Myint
She is still trying to recover the loss of her uncle Peter (who was like a second father). She had high hopes even after Peter was admitted to ICU, but they dashed as Peter’s health deteriorated the following days.
She sent me several photos.
Photo taken in Northampton, UK
Memories from New Zealand
Updates
U Tin U lost his spouse Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt in November 2019, his elder son Dr. Peter Tun in April 2020, and his son-in-law U Tin Tun in May 2020.
U Tin U 1U Tin U 2
U Tin U now has two great grand daughters. Peter did not live long enough to see his grand daughters.
U Ba Than
U Ba Than (U Tin U’s younger brother) passed away shortly after his 94th birthday.
Daw Myint Thwe
Daw Myint Thwe (U Tin U’s younger sister) passed away in May, 2025 (a few months short of her 91st birthday).
Dr. Myo Tint
Dr. Myo Tint (younger brother of U Tin U & U Ba Than) succumbed to Covid. He was in his mid 80s.
Peter, Win Mar & Min Ko
In memory of Peter, Win Mar has performed meritorious deeds (e.g donation to earthquake & flood victims). She and her sons Min Ko & Ye Lay also performed Kuso ကုသိုလ် for the birthdays (in the extended family).
She is Peter’s younger sister and Ye Myint’s older sister.
She graduated with B.Com and completed her CPA.
In an early assignment to Upper Burma, she found her love life Ko Tin Tun — younger brother of my former SPHS classmate Dr. Maung Maung Gyi (GBNF). They have two daughters : Thin Thiri Tun (Honey, electronics engineer in Singapore) and Khin Sandy Tun (Pu Tu, medical doctor).
Since Peter and Ye Myint were working in UK, Aye Aye and Pu Tu looked after U Tin U and Ma Cherry. About a year and a half ago, Ko Tin Tun developed a problem that required medical treatment in Singapore and Yangon.
Peter monitored the health of his parents and Ko Tin Tun (via calls with Aye Aye and Pu Tu).
Peter told Aye Aye not to worry about Pu Tu’s future. He would sponsor Pu Tu to study MRCP in UK.
Before Peter was hospitalized, Aye Aye and Pu Tu had a daily conversation with Peter, who continued to advise on Ko Tin Tun’s failing health. Peter appeared to be in high spirits.
It was an unpleasant surprise to learn about Peter’s demise — the second loss in the family within a few months.
Due to the pandemic, Pu Tu could not go to Bangkok to take her PLAP examination. As a blessing in disguise, Pu Tu could take care of her father.
Aye Aye and Pu Tu do not have time and energy to share their memories of Peter. They miss Peter badly.
Peter loved Pu Tu very much because she took care of Ma Cherry and wanted to help Pu Tu with her career.
Aye Aye thanks Honey for reminding them that sorrow is a form of DOSA and to overcome sorrow with vipassana meditation.
Daw Ohnmar Khin
Dear Peter
It’s now a month since you left us. It just doesn’t seem real you are gone. Please know you have touched the lives of every one who have known you with your kindness and generosity of spirit . I consider myself so very lucky to have had time with you, to listen to all your good health advices, your teaching me about vipassana meditation, how we shared funny & memorable stories about our grandparents & ancestors – as passed down by our Mums. You were a pillar of strength to your family & now your legacy lives on in your two wonderful sons, who have become the pillars of strength for their Mum. You were a big part in our close knit circle of first cousins from The U Tin Gyi Family Clan from your Mum’s side. We shall always remember you in our hearts & minds. I will always remember what a wonderful & devoted son you were to your beloved parents – how your Mum would not let anyone cut her hair except you. How you would take every opportunity to make her happy from thousands of miles away. Thardu Thardu Thardu. RIP Peter, I know you have gone to a better and higher abode. Missing you so much-
Love – Ma Ma Ohnmar
Photo Card by U Tin Htoon
Tribute to PKT
Daw Toni Than
She is the daughter of U Sett Khaing and Daw Sarah Tin Gyi. She is the Oldest among the 20+ Tin Gyi cousins. She would call her two youngest maternal aunts as Ma Ma Tin and Ma Ma Tu.
She studied English Honors and taught at RIT. She was a leading member of the RIT Scrabble Club which produced Champions like Saya Des (now in Canada) and Saya U Khin (now in Taiwan).
She joined her spouse H.E. U Nyi Than (GBNF) during his diplomatic missions abroad. They have a son and a daughter.
Upon her return to Myanmar, she taught at International / Private Schools. She stays mentally active by playing Scrabble and Bridge.
I met her at the RIT SPZPs and recently when her beloved Ma Ma Tu passed away late last year. She was accompanied by two cousins : Diana and Tessa.
The following is a note she sent to to her cousin Ye Myint in UK.
Tomorrow is one month of my cousin Peter’s passing. I want to share with you all, an incident that will forever be embedded in my heart and mind. My son Ye Min had dysentery and within hours, in front of our very eyes started to look gaunt with sunken eyes due to loss of fluid etc. I was frantic and then Peter came to the rescue. He stayed with him, administering drip till he was stable. He saved my son’s life, calming me down at the same time. He was that kind of person. I still can’t get over his loss. Peter, Rest in Peace.
Daw Cho Cho Hlaing
U Tin U (Peter’s father) is the eldest of 9 siblings.
Ma Cho is the youngest. Her mother told her many stories.
I heard a few from her last night.
There was a “Taya Pwe” by Mohnin Sayadaw at the “Maida Kwinn”. There was a large crowd. Mo Cho’s mother and aunt are devotees of sayadaw. Ma Cherry’s mother also was also a devotee. Young Ma Cherry and Ma Olga dressed as yogis would accompany her mother. Ma Cherry could not find her mother among the crowd. She ran into Ma Cho’s aunt and then cried. Little did both realize that with “Yay Set” both would be related by marriage later.
U Tin Gyi (Ma Cherry’s father) was highly respected as Commissioner of Cooperatives and received awards. He was building a new house in Windermere Road for his large family. He went to UK to attend a meeting but passed away unexpectedly. His son U Sway Tin collected his ashes to be brought back home. Ma Cherry’s mother did not want to leave her old house. So the new house was sold to Dr. Chan Taik.
Ma Cho studied Chemistry and worked at Central Research Organization.
She organized donation drives to selected monasteries. For several years, she hosted a weekly meditation sitting.
She wrote an article for “Neikbeinda Taung” (in Prome / Pyay), where several relatives took refuge during the war.
She also wrote an article named “Windermere Hma Kyee See Than” for “Wi Thudha Yone Kyaung”It described the “Ah Yone Soon Kyee Laung” initiated by U Kyaw Thaung and team.
Jessica Myint
She is still trying to recover the loss of her uncle Peter (who was like a second father). She had high hopes even after Peter was admitted to ICU, but they dashed as Peter’s health deteriorated the following days.
During our visit to Reading, UK in September 2017, she and Peter hosted us.
Since Peter was working at the NHS hospital and at a private clinic, he would show us around late in the evening (e.g. River Thames). On the week end Peter patiently drove us to Ogmore-by-the-sea in Wales to visit Maung Maung Kyi and Khin May Than.
Win Mar would be our guide during the week days. We would take bus and train to see Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace and selected tourist attractions. Since she had been to those places many times, she would patiently wait for us near the entrance / exit gate. As seniors, we received discount on the bus and train fares.
She keeps fit by massaging her feet in a bucket full of salt. She also climbs up and down the stairs to do her chores (cooking, washing, drying clothes in the backyard).
Like Peter, she is an outstanding Chef. Unlike Peter, she is selective in eating food. She prefers Burmese specialties over Chinese, Indian and British food (with the exception of “Fish and Chips” sold at the shop owned by Peter’s assistant / doctor).
She would tell stories to my spouse.
When she was working as a teacher in Hlegu, Peter would come over with a food container. Guess what. Peter had made mashed potatoes! Peter did not know then that Win Mar did not have appetite for non-Burmese (especially British) food.
Some time later, they regained contact by chance at the Chauk Htutt Yone (6-storey Government office). Peter would ask her for a “date” where he would hand over a 7-page “Yee Zar Sar”. Win Mar appreciated Peter’s “Open Book” approach (which listed his puppy love and current / potential suitors). Peter agreed to settle in Mezaligone.
In late March, Peter told me that COVID-19 had hit UK, but Reading did not have many cases. Nevertheless, he showered a day (before and after work) as a precaution. He treasured Win Mar’s health.
Then, we heard some bad news. Five of Peter’s patients have been tested positive for COVID-19. Peter was asked to “self isolate” at his home. Per his brother, sister and nieces, Peter felt confident that he would turn out victorious.
After a week, Peter’s health declined and was admitted to ICU. A few days later, Win Mar had fever and cough. Min Ko and Ye Lay (who could not visit the house due to the “self-isolation”) called the ambulance. The medics checked Win Mar and suggested to wait a few days.
When Peter passed away, Win Mar was taken to the hospital. Her health and appetite returned. Her request was for “Fish and Chips”. I was indeed a good sign that she still have a good memory. Her friends (e.g. Ma Theingi) cooked Burmese meals.
Peter, Win Mar, Min Ko
Win Mar was discharged on April 29, 2020 and was able to attend the service for Peter on April 30, 2020. She spoke with Cho Cho Hlaing over the video conference, “Peter was born on a Monday and passed away on a Monday. He must have run out of his life span. KAN KONE LOH SONE THWAR DA.”
Win Mar is now is close company of Ye Lay and Min Ko (who still have lease for a flat / apartment 5 minutes away).
They offered “One Month” Soon Kyway to Birmingham Sayadaw U Ottara Nyana.
They also celebrated Ye Lay’s birthday a few days later.
Dr. Pe Nyun, U Khin Maung Wint, Dr. Pe Thein, U Tin U
RUBC crew at Independence Day Regatta
U Mya Maung (B. Com, Entrepreneur)
Mya Maung
Dr. Myo San / Freddie (SPHS63, Surgeon)
Freddie Ba San
U Myint Thin (M71)
Myint Thin
U Than Po (M75)
Composer
Zat Saya
Pianist
Pattala
Vocalist
Than Po
GBNF for the Class of 69
U Aung Min (M69) reported 139 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. About 320 students entered the first ever 2nd BE. The list includes a few seniors who took sabbatical in their study and ended up as our classmates. Over 40% of our former classmates have passed away.
Four EC69ers have passed away :
U Kyaw Soe (DCA)
U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, Schlumberger)
U Aung Thu Yein
U Chit Tin (MOGE)
U Chit Tin & Maung Kabar
U Oo Kyaw Hla (Canada)
Due to the decline of health, the 69ers chose to have two Golden Jubilees : the first in 2014 to celebrate the admission to RIT, and the second in December 2019 to celebrate the graduation of most members in 1969.
69ers GBNF
GBNF for the Class of 70
U Ohn Khine (M70) reported 148 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 70.
Tommy Shwe, Cho Aye, Peter Pe and Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay) were among the Top Ten students from the class. They are now GBNF.
Tommy ShweSteeve Kay (Thaung Sein)Cho Aye
Over 450 students entered the first ever 1st BE.
GBNF from PPBRS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from PPBRS have passed away.
U Kyaw Zaw & Daw Khin Khin Aye
Among my PPBRS classmates, Myo Set (son of actor Tha Gaung Gyi) was the first to pass away. He perished in a car accident. Myint Sein (Veda) and Myat Hla Sein (Movie Tech) are among the recent GBNF from PPBRS.
Myat Hla Sein
GBNF from SPHS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from SPHS have passed away. Sayadaw Beatson (Physics, Boy Scouts) is still active and strong.
SPHS Sayas
Among my SPHS classmates, Min Thaw (Gilbert, SPHS63) is among the early ones to pass away. Dr. Myo San (Freddie), Aung Thu Yein (Brownie), Tin Tun, Maung Maung Kyi, Aung Kyi (Arthur Kyi), Khin Maung Bo (Alan Saw Maung), Aung Chaw (Victor) are among the GBNF from SPHS63.
Myo San (Freddie)Maung Maung Kyi Soon Kyaw by Kyaw Wynn
69er GBNF
The GBNF list maintained by U Aung Min (M69) contains 138 of my RIT classmates. About 20 succumbed to Covid. Some had medical problems.
Khin Maung Win (Sargalay)
GBNF from UCC & ICST
Several of my sayas, colleagues and former students have passed away.
CO Hla Min (Pauk Si) is an early GBNF from UCC. U Aung Zaw, Daw Nge Ma Ma Than, U Maung Maung Lay (Ah Ba), U Aung Myint and U Maung Maung Gyi are among the recent GBNF from UCC.
Dr. Chit Swe & U Aung ZawDr. Tin Maung & Daw Nge Ma Ma ThanU Maung Maung Lay & U Maung Maung GyiCO U Hla Min, U Aung Myint, U Aung Zaw
Tone Kyaw တုံးကျော်
One should have Samvegha (sense of urgency) after hearing the sad news. When my namesake Hla Min (Pauk Si, SPHS64, EP70) passed away in his mid-thirties, we were shocked since he seemed strong and did not wear jackets (mandated for UCC employees entering the Computer Room). He would often be seen in sport shirts. He passed away with a few months of being diagnosed with liver problem. The consultant doctor was Dr. Min Lwin (Maurice Hla Kyi, SPHS64, IM71). Ko Pauk Si was not a drinker, but other causes inflicted his liver. I became a Tone Kyaw when two government departments where I had given Guest Lectures on Computers and Applications tried to send me “Lwan Thu Pan Khwe” လွမ်းသူ့ပန်းခွေ
U Han Sein (C69) became a Tone Kyaw when the Organizers of the 30th Anniversary of Graduation inadvertently listed him in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. The organizers were unaware that U Han Sein was detained by the authorities after the 8-8-88 event. He resurfaced two decades later with the declaration of Amnesty.
Han Sein
Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63) became a Tone Kyaw when his namesake Saya Dr, Tin Hlaing (formerly of Maritime Studies) passed away. Some alumni had to revoke the wrong announcement.
Conventional wisdom says, “Pyauk thor thu shar hlyin tway. Thay thor thu kyar hlyin mae.” ပျောက်သောသူ ရှာလျှင်တွေ့။ သေသောသူ ကြာလျှင်မေ့။ One may find a lost person. One tends to forget those who have passed away.
Unconventional wisdom says, “We should maintain GBNF (Gone But Not Forgotten) lists as part of the Written History of our beloved alma mater, our mentors and colleagues.”
We use GBNF in the “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” and in my Posts. Other posts may provide additional information for the entries in the GBNF (by period or year) posts.
Others use RIP (Rest in Peace), and BFHA (Bound For Higher Abode)
First RIT Website
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) set up three GBNF pages on ex-RIT.org web site :
GBNF for sayas and sayamas
U Ba Hli
GBNF for alumni
GBNF for spouses
I used GBNF in the last stanza of my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” for SPZP-2000. The poem was reprinted as the Back Cover of Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for SPZP-2000. It was only reprinted by the Class of 69 and Combined 1st BE intake of 64 and 65.
Poem for SPZP-2000
GBNF by School & Class
GBNF for the Class of 69
U Aung Min (M69) reported close to 120 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. About 320 students entered the first ever 2nd BE. The list includes a few seniors who took sabbatical in their study and ended up as our classmates. Over 40% of our former classmates have passed away.
Four EC69ers have passed away :
U Kyaw Soe (DCA)
U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, Schlumberger)
U Aung Thu Yein
U Chit Tin (MOGE)
U Chit Tin & Maung Kabar
U Oo Kyaw Hla (Canada)
Due to the decline of health, the 69ers chose to have two Golden Jubilees : the first in 2014 to celebrate the admission to RIT, and the second in December 2019 to celebrate the graduation of most members in 1969.
69ers GBNF
GBNF for the Class of 70
U Ohn Khine (M70) reported close to 120 entries in the GBNF list of the Class of 70.
Tommy Shwe, Cho Aye, Peter Pe and Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay) were among the Top Ten students from the class. They are now GBNF.
Tommy ShweSteeve Kay (Thaung Sein)Cho Aye
Over 450 students entered the first ever 1st BE.
GBNF from PPBRS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from PPBRS have passed away.
U Kyaw Zaw & Daw Khin Khin Aye
Among my PPBRS classmates, Myo Set (son of actor Tha Gaung Gyi) was the first to pass away. He perished in a car accident. Myint Sein (Veda) and Myat Hla Sein (Movie Tech) are among the recent GBNF from PPBRS.
Myat Hla Sein
GBNF from SPHS
Most of my sayas and sayamas from SPHS have passed away. Sayadaw Beatson (Physics, Boy Scouts) is still active and strong.
SPHS Sayas
Among my SPHS classmates, Min Thaw (Gilbert, SPHS63) is among the early ones to pass away. Dr. Myo San (Freddie), Aung Thu Yein (Brownie), Tin Tun, Maung Maung Kyi, Aung Kyi (Arthur Kyi), Khin Maung Bo (Alan Saw Maung), Aung Chaw (Victor) are among the GBNF from SPHS63.
Myo San (Freddie)Maung Maung Kyi Soon Kyaw by Kyaw Wynn
69er GBNF
The GBNF list maintained by U Aung Min (M69) contains 138 of my RIT classmates. About 20 succumbed to Covid. Some had medical problems.
Khin Maung Win (Sargalay)
GBNF from UCC & ICST
Several of my sayas, colleagues and former students have passed away.
CO Hla Min (Pauk Si) is an early GBNF from UCC. U Aung Zaw, Daw Nge Ma Ma Than, U Maung Maung Lay (Ah Ba), U Aung Myint and U Maung Maung Gyi are among the recent GBNF from UCC.
Dr. Chit Swe & U Aung ZawDr. Tin Maung & Daw Nge Ma Ma ThanU Maung Maung Lay & U Maung Maung GyiCO U Hla Min, U Aung Myint, U Aung Zaw
Tone Kyaw တုံးကျော်
One should have Samvegha (sense of urgency) after hearing the sad news. When my namesake Hla Min (Pauk Si, SPHS64, EP70) passed away in his mid-thirties, we were shocked since he seemed strong and did not wear jackets (mandated for UCC employees entering the Computer Room). He would often be seen in sport shirts. He passed away with a few months of being diagnosed with liver problem. The consultant doctor was Dr. Min Lwin (Maurice Hla Kyi, SPHS64, IM71). Ko Pauk Si was not a drinker, but other causes inflicted his liver. I became a Tone Kyaw when two government departments where I had given Guest Lectures on Computers and Applications tried to send me “Lwan Thu Pan Khwe” လွမ်းသူ့ပန်းခွေ
U Han Sein (C69) became a Tone Kyaw when the Organizers of the 30th Anniversary of Graduation inadvertently listed him in the GBNF list of the Class of 69. The organizers were unaware that U Han Sein was detained by the authorities after the 8-8-88 event. He resurfaced two decades later with the declaration of Amnesty.
Han Sein
Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63) became a Tone Kyaw when his namesake Saya Dr, Tin Hlaing (formerly of Maritime Studies) passed away. Some alumni had to revoke the wrong announcement.