BODEGA BAY, Calif. (KGO) – A Buddhist vigil was held for five people who died on a fishing trip after their boat capsized in California. The only survivor was a 13-year-old boy who is now mourning his father.

It was a fishing trip that became a family tradition, but Prasong Khammoungkhoune, his 13-year-old son and four others went overboard when their boat capsized two weeks ago in bad weather in Bodega Bay. Only the 13-year-old survived, reaching shore a few hours later, clinging to a cooler.

Family and friends gathered Saturday to mourn those who didn’t make it home.

“The chanting of the monks was more of a prayer that he would hear, that his soul would rest in peace and that he would find his way back to Bodega Bay,” said Prasong’s sister, Shanice Khammoungkhoune.

The father’s body, along with the bodies of two other victims, was not found.

“If his soul is trapped here, wandering in the ocean somewhere, I didn’t want that in my mind or in my heart. I want him to find some closure and find peace and comfort so he can go on the next journey of his life,” said Shanice Khammoungkhoune.

Prasong Khammoungkhoune’s mother, wife and three children attended the Buddhist ceremony. The last time his son, Juladi, also known as Jude, saw him, he let go of the refrigerator that the 13-year-old was in, so that the teenager could reach the shore faster.

“I will miss him, and his spirit lives on in my body,” Jude said.

Prasong Khammoungkhoune’s grandson, Jonathan Chang, spoke at the vigil.

“He has been a very good role model for the family and others he meets,” Chang said.

Over $72,000 was raised for the family on GoFundMe. Chang says the community support has been important and impactful, especially since his uncle was his family’s sole provider.

“I just want to give my appreciation to the people who came here and also to those who donated to support the family in a loss.”

On the boat with Prasong Khammoungkhoune and his son were Prasong’s cousin Johnny Phommathep; his two sons, Johnny Jr., 17, and Jake, 14; and Johnny’s friend Matthew Ong. The family of three of the other victims were invited to the vigil, but did not attend.

Only the bodies of Johnny Jr. were found. and NGOs.

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