It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Clyde Haumann on 10 October 2026, at the age of 88. Born on 25 February 1938, Clyde touched countless lives throughout his long and active life, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
For many, Clyde was much more than a teacher. He was a dedicated and warm-hearted guide to an entirely new world. Through his work teaching Danish to Thai people, he helped countless individuals prepare for a new life in Denmark. With patience, empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges of adapting to another culture, he made the difficult Danish language accessible and meaningful to his students.
An American born in Singapore, Clyde had lived in Thailand on and off since 1964. His extensive experience of different cultures gave him a particular understanding of the challenges facing people preparing to settle in a foreign country.
In Bangkok, Clyde played a central role in Thai Integration, an organisation helping Thai people prepare for a new life in Denmark and other Scandinavian countries. Later also known as Den Danske Sprogskole (The Danish Language School), it offered Danish language instruction alongside practical guidance on Danish culture, everyday life and immigration procedures. Clyde was one of its key teachers, helping students not only learn the language but also navigate the challenges of moving to a new country.
ScandAsia featured Clyde and his work in the 2007 article Language of Love and again in 2010 in Danish Language School in Bangkok. These articles documented his dedication to helping Thai people overcome language barriers and prepare for life in Denmark.
Later, Clyde moved his teaching activities and his life further south to the beautiful and more peaceful surroundings of Pranburi, south of Hua Hin. There, too, he continued his work with the same dedication and passion.
Clyde will be remembered for his genuine warmth, his commitment to his work and the tremendous difference he made in the lives of his students and their families. He built bridges between Thailand and Denmark – not merely through words and grammar, but through personal connection, respect and understanding.
May Clyde Haumann rest in peace. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched.
