Sze Yin Kwan

Sze Yin Kwan was born in 1938 and passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on January 24, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born in China, Sze Yin was the eldest son in his family. From a young age, he carried great responsibility, helping his father work to support the family and ensuring his younger siblings could continue their education. Though he did not have the opportunity for formal schooling, he lived a life defined by hard work, perseverance, and quiet dedication.

At the age of 25, Sze Yin met the love of his life, Mei Chun. After a brief courtship, they married and began a lifelong journey together. Following their marriage, their eldest son, John, was born in Hong Kong. The family later moved to Venezuela, where their daughter Lily and son George were born. In 1971, the family relocated to Santa Paula, California in the United States, where their youngest daughter, Rosa, was born.

In the U.S., Sze Yin worked as a chef at Lin’s Chinese Food, quietly dedicating himself to his family, while Mei Chun worked as a seamstress in a garment factory. Sze Yin ventured out and partnered with his sister, Julie, to open Universal Restaurant in Ventura. Later in 1985, they opened 9 Dragons Restaurant in Carpinteria, which offered delicious Chinese Cuisine.

Through hard work, thrift, and perseverance, Sze Yin and Mei Chun raised their four children, lived modestly, worked tirelessly to purchase a home, and devoted themselves wholeheartedly to supporting their children’s education.

After retiring in 2000, Sze Yin and Mei Chun enjoyed traveling together, sharing life’s simple joys and embracing life. They shared over 63 years of marriage, standing by each other, loving and supporting one another. Their enduring bond and happiness became a loving example for their family.

In 2018, Sze Yin gave his life to Christ. He was baptized, was filled with the Holy Spirit and followed with daily prayers.

In addition to his dear wife and four children, Sze Yin is survived by his four grandchildren, Stephanie, Linus, Allison, and Karina. He also has two sons-in-law, Jack and Max, and daughter-in-law, Elaine.

Sze Yin lived a life defined by diligence, integrity, a strong sense of responsibility, and deep love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of sacrifice, love, and quiet strength. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by those who loved him.