BENJAMIN (Ben/Bennie) KWONG
DOD: October 26, 2025
Residence: Palo Alto, California
Ben Kwong, 83, longtime Palo Alto pharmacist and beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully after a long illness on October 26. He was surrounded by his family.
A 1960 graduate of Palo Alto High School and the University of the Pacific ('65) Ben devoted his professional life to serving others with care and kindness.
Ben served proudly in the U.S. Army as a medic before beginning his career in pharmacy. After earning his pharmacy degree, he founded Maximart Pharmacy, one of Palo Alto’s last independent pharmacies, and he and his wife Robin operated it for more than four decades. For generations of residents, Maximart was far more than a place to fill prescriptions–it was a neighborhood gathering place where Ben and Robin greeted customers by name, listened with patience, and treated everyone who came through the door like family.
For more than 50 years, he was a loyal San Francisco 49ers fan, sticking with the team through both championship glory and rebuilding seasons. He shared his love of sports with his grandsons by coaching a season of flag football and attending their baseball, soccer, and lacrosse games.
Ben is survived by his daughter Jennifer and her husband Steve; his two grandsons, Ryan and Will of whom he was immensely proud; his brother Bill; his sister Emily, and by many loving in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of long-time friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Robin, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the University of Pacific, Class of 1965 Scholarship, which may be made by check payable to “Class of 1965 Scholarship” and sent to:
Susan Webster, School of Pharmacy, 2601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95211.
Ben’s life was marked by generosity, loyalty, and service to his community. His presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
The family will hold a Celebration of Ben’s Life at a later date to honor his memory and the many lives he touched. Details will be shared with family and friends when plans are finalized.
Pamela Kiraly (West) (1961)
Benny was an exceptional person and wonderful leader. His integrity throughout high school never waivered into his adulthood. He was the President of the Class of '60 and a good friend of my brother. A few years ago, I was on a tour of Paly. Suddenly Ben was walking alongside of me and asked, "Pam?". I hadn't seen him in years, and didn't recognize him at first. I know he grieved terribly upon his wife's passing--a heartfelt heartache to see him suffering. He was The Best and deserved The Best! It's wonderful to depart this world leaving behind a sterling reputation as Ben surely did. God bless you Benny. Thank you for all that you did and gave for others. And thank you for being a wonderful example of integrity, friendship, kindness, and servanthood.
John Kiraly (1960)
Benny was a great friend since we met a classmates at Jordan Jr. He had a great sense of humor and was a loyal friend.
He will be missed. John Kiraly '60
Edward A. Custer, Jr. (1960)
Ben and I attended school together all the way from Lytton Elementary, Jordan Jr High and graduated from Paly in 1960. We played foofball together for the Vikings. He was All-Spal linebacker and I spent most of my time sitting on the bench. He went onto UOP and I went into the military service (Semper Fi). After my 4 year enlistment he suggested I call his brother George at the Palo Alto Times Newspaper where I obtained a part time job in the circulation department so I cound attend Foothill Jr College. Foothill panned out as I had no idea what classes to take and what to major in. I met my wife Diane at the Times in 1965 (60 years ago), thanks to Ben. My part time job became full time for seven years until I became a CHP officer in 1971. We kept in touch over the years. I used to stop by and visit him at Maximart Pharmacy in South Palo Alto when I lived in San Jose after after visiting my parents on Emerson St. He and his brother George very very much alike. George died in 2002. Ben was always upbeat and and very positive. You could count on him for anything if you needed help. He was truly a good person.
Ed Custer Class of 1960