Robert Bom Soo Sohn

Robert Bom Soo Sohn, a resilient soul whose life journey traversed continents and cultures, peacefully departed this world on February 25, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, perseverance, the strongest work ethic, and cherished memories. He was 88 years old, having been born in North Korea on November 3, 1935, although his actual records indicate 1936.

From the tender age of three, Robert faced the harsh reality of loss with the passing of his mother, a pivotal moment that would shape his resilience and fortitude for the years to come. Raised by a new family, he embraced the companionship of three brothers, weaving bonds of strength.

In 1947, at the age of twelve, Robert, with his dad defected from North Korea to South Korea, leaving behind seven beloved sisters. Their separation weighed heavily on his heart, driving his lifelong quest to reunite with them, a quest that remained unfulfilled.

Undeterred by life's challenges, Robert graduated from Korean Union College in Seoul, Korea in 1955. After college, he taught elementary and middle school. He then went to Seoul Municipal Agricultural College and became a veterinarian, graduating in 1961. His sense of duty led him to serve in the Korean Army from 1963 to 1966, demonstrating his commitment to his country and community.

Robert met the love of his life, Olga Myung Ja Lee, at Korean Union College. Their union on March 28, 1965, marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together, filled with love, and shared dreams. 

In pursuit of a better future for his growing family, Robert and Olga embarked on a new adventure, immigrating to the United States in May 10, 1970. Settling first in Riverside, California, and later in Atlanta, Georgia, amidst various jobs to provide for his loved ones, Robert found solace and fulfillment as a farmer upon acquiring land in Loganville, Georgia, where he toiled tirelessly until illness intervened.

Throughout his life, Robert was renowned for his captivating storytelling, skillfully weaving tales of resilience, his love for America, the satisfaction of tending to his modest harvest, and the enduring bonds of family. His spirit will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 58 years, Olga Myung Ja Sohn; his daughters Ruth Toyama (Mark) of Chicago, Illinois, and Anna Schoenbaum (Geoffery) of Baltimore, Maryland; his cherished grandchildren, Kaitlin, Jennifer, Joseph, and Ansel; brothers, Roger (Connie) Sohn of Loma Linda, California, John Sohn of Seattle Washington, and Eric (Vera) Sohn of Sacramento, California; as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and dear friends. 

In honor of Robert's memory, memorial donations may be made to Heifer International https://fundraise.heifer.org/campaign/memorials-22/c403119    

A celebration of Robert's life will be held on March 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at the Georgia United Korean Seventh Day Adventist Church, located at 2965 Duluth Hwy, Duluth, Georgia 30096. May his indomitable spirit and enduring love continue to inspire all who knew him, guiding them through life’s journeys with courage and grace.

To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www.flaniganfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements By: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.