Kung Cheuk Kwan
Kung Kwan was born in Kaiping, China, on August 22, 1952. Due to harsh economic conditions, he never received a formal education and began working at a young age. At 16, he made his way to Hong Kong, where he worked alongside his father in textiles and later in construction. Even then, he had greater ambitions.
In 1978, Kung immigrated to the United States. He often shared the story of arriving with no English, only $20 in his pocket, and no one to meet him at the airport. That moment fueled his determination. He enrolled in a culinary program and began searching for work in Los Angeles. As he discovered greater opportunities, his ambitions continued to grow, leading him east in search of a better future.
While traveling to Texas, Kung happened to stop in Albuquerque. There, he began working at Ho Lo Ma Chinese Restaurant, where he met Larry. Larry later introduced Kung to his sister, Mei. The two quickly formed a connection and were married shortly thereafter.
Kung continued working in various restaurants until he saw an opportunity to open his own business in Rio Rancho. In 1986, he and Mei opened China Kitchen. Together, they worked tirelessly, often seven days a week for many years, to provide a better life for their family. Their three sons also worked at the restaurant, where they developed practical skills and witnessed firsthand the effort required to build a better future. The experience instilled in them a strong work ethic, responsibility, and resilience.
Through the restaurant, Kung built lasting relationships with many loyal customers and became an active part of the local Chinese restaurant community. He witnessed Rio Rancho grow and proudly served the community for 31 years before retiring.
In retirement, Kung enjoyed learning new skills through small construction projects, gardening, spending time with his two grandchildren, and traveling within the United States. He also fulfilled a long-held goal by becoming a U.S. citizen.
Kung passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at the age of 73 on December 13, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Mei, and his sons, James, Steve, and William.
The family extends special thanks to the Rust Medical Center staff for their compassionate and diligent care during his final days. Their dedication allowed his extended family precious time to be at his side, a gift only the luckiest among us ever receive.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local food bank. He will be deeply missed.
Condolences
Allen and Yvonne Liang January 04, 2026
From Allen and Yvonne Liang: We are very sorry for your loss. From Allen’s memory, he vividly remembered Mr. Kung Cheuk Kwan married to sister Mei Ling. Allen also worked in China Kitchen along side with his Brother-In-Law at Grand Opening, and saw Kung’s dedication and excellent work ethic. Besides, he was a good husband and a good father of 3 sons. Kung is definitely a good role model to us. Kung will be missed forever!!!
Allen Liang January 03, 2026
Sister Mei and Kwans I am so sorry for your loss. I vividly remember Mr.Kwan came to China and married my sister Mei. I also worked in China Kitchen at the grand opening. From working with my brother in law there, I saw his work ethic and became my role model and taught me how to be a good man. We are very proud to have you in our life and raised a great family. You will be truly missed.
Katie Liang December 29, 2025
Dear Kwan Family and loved ones, I am so sorry for your loss. Uncle Kwan was a great father, uncle, grandfather, and leader, as many people including myself had great respect for him. It is with the most sincerest condolences that I hope the Kwan family and loved ones heal gently and may he rest in peace. His honor and legacy will continue to grow and spread love as his three amazing sons, William, James and Steve have positively impacted many people in their own amazing ways. Sending love, Katie Liang
Allen Liang December 27, 2025
What a touching beautiful life story. I remembered seeing he came to China and married my sister Mei. I also worked in China Kitchen when it was grand opening. Mr. Kwan was my role model and taught me a great work ethic and how to raise a family. I say Mr Kwan, you had done a tremendous job for your family and you should be smiling In heaven.
Kevin liang December 27, 2025
Although I wasn’t very close with Mr.Kung too much. He has greatly impacted my family a lot for the better. He gave my father a job when he was in need for money, and he took great care of my cousins and me as well when I was very young. I want to say this to Mr.Kung thank you so much for everything you provide your loved ones with and you have truly made an impact for generations, he truly has an inspiring story and left a huge footprint for his family. Rest in peace Mr.Kung, you will be deeply missed.
关文林 December 20, 2025
我怀着十分沉痛的心情，在中国远隔重洋得知叔叔不幸离世，内心万分悲痛。叔叔生前对我们家庭关怀照顾良多，这份恩情我将永远铭记于心。虽身在异地，不能亲临送别，谨以至诚之心寄托哀思。愿叔叔一路走好，安息长眠；也祈愿家人节哀顺变，保重身体，平安度过这段艰难的时光。 侄子:关文林 鞠躬！ With a heart full of deep sorrow, I learned from afar here in China about the passing of my uncle, and I am profoundly saddened. During his lifetime, my uncle cared for and supported our family in countless ways, a kindness I will always remember. Although I am far away and cannot be there in person to pay my respects, I offer my sincerest condolences. May my uncle rest in peace and find eternal serenity; I also pray that the family finds strength, takes care of themselves, and safely gets through this difficult time.” Nephew Guan Wenlin bows.
Kevin and Colleen Konetzni December 19, 2025
So sorry to hear the news. China Kitchen holds a special place in our hearts. We still miss those special meals we shared with our family and as a take out treat. William is good friends with our son, Elliot. It was fun watching all those grow up!
MariLee Lockwood December 19, 2025
Dear Kwan Family, Hello, I am Sarah Loeppke’s mom, MariLee and I have known James for quite a while now. He and Sarah have been so close for many years and I am so thankful for James, he is such a sweet and kind friend to Sarah. I am so sorry for the loss of your dear husband and father. I have prayed for all of you and will continue to. God bless you at this time. You are so blessed.