Hundreds gathered at East Ridge High School in Woodbury on Saturday to honor a Hmong activist and comedian who was killed in Colombia.

Tou Ger Xiong will be remembered as a comedian, motivational speaker, educator and activist. Those who knew him say the 50-year-old dedicated his entire life to serving others.

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Xiong was kidnapped and killed in Medellín on Dec. 10. Prosecutors say he went to meet a friend in the city, but hours later he called a friend in the U.S. to tell him that he was kidnapped and his captors demanded a $2,000 ransom to free him.

Long-time friend Steve Powers said he is still stunned by Xiong’s death.

“I know Tou liked to travel as I do and my friend does, and it was just surreal. I couldn’t believe it,” he said.

Xiong is also remembered as a mentor, who taught young people to take pride in their culture and to take education seriously.

“When you met him, he made you feel like I can do anything, and I’m so proud of my culture and my heritage,” said Eh Xiong, his brother.

For updates from Xiong’s family and information on how to remember Xiong, visit this webpage.

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