Former Royal Barge Officer Dies at 69, Body Donated to Medical School
Former Royal Thai Navy officer Commander Opas Nakarun, known for his service in the Royal Barge Procession, died at 69 from a heart attack. His family held a brief funeral in Nonthaburi before donating his body to Siriraj Hospital for medical education, fulfilling his wish to benefit future doctors.
Social media is in mourning for Commander Opas Nakarun, a former officer in the Royal Barge Procession, who passed away peacefully at age 69. On November 11, 2026, his son Pakon Nakaroon posted a sorrowful message announcing his father's death from a sudden heart attack. He requested prayers for Commander Opas Nakarun (also known as Kru Opas, Kru Niao, Lung Daeng, Lung Phas, etc.), noting that even in death, his body was donated to become a 'great teacher' for future physicians — a final act of generosity. The posted photo showed him on duty during a royal barge procession many years ago, shared to honor his service, with a plea not to circulate the image for news trends or profit without permission.
Commander Opas Nakarun, also known as Kru Niao or Lung Daeng, passed away peacefully at 69. Throughout his naval career, he served with honor and dedicated himself to the public good. The family held a one-night funeral chanting ceremony on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Wat Somklaeng in Nonthaburi, before transferring his body to Siriraj Hospital. Even after leaving this world, he chose to make one last contribution by donating his body for medical education. Deepest condolences are extended to his family and loved ones.
