Kit-Man Cheung

Kit-Man Cheung, born March 12, 1940, in Hong Kong, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Kit-Man lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, and deep care for those around him.

From the young age of 13, Kit-Man began working on the docks in Hong Kong, helping load cargo onto ships. In 1967, he married the love of his life, Mary Wai Chun (Ng) Cheung, beginning a 59-year partnership built on dedication and family. Together, they immigrated to the United States, where Kit-Man worked in the hospitality and restaurant industry in Honolulu, Hawaii, including time at the Waikiki Hilton Hawaiian Village, Ala Moana, and Yeung Sing.

In 1977, Kit-Man and Mary moved their family to Rupert, Idaho, where they owned and operated the C&L Restaurant and Lounge for 22 years. Through hard work and determination, Kit-Man built a successful local business from the ground up, supporting not only his family in the United States but also loved ones in Hong Kong. He later retired in Twin Falls, Idaho, to be closer to his family.

Kit-Man will be remembered for his incredible cooking—many say he made the best Chinese food in town—as well as his sense of humor and his fondness for giving people nicknames. Many who visited his restaurant would say their food came out of the kitchen faster than a McDonald’s drive-through, yet every dish was made completely from scratch. A self-taught chef and business owner, he took pride in running a clean, welcoming kitchen. He had a quiet smile that touched everyone he met and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Above all, Kit-Man was a loving husband, a caring father, and a doting grandfather. He made sure his family was always provided for and deeply cherished the time spent with them. He loved swimming, relaxing in the sunshine, traveling on boats, and enjoying meals at all-you-can-eat buffets. Some of his happiest moments were spent cooking breakfast and playing with his grandchildren and great-grandchild.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Wai Chun Cheung of Twin Falls; his daughters, Lorraine (Cris) Rasmussen of Twin Falls, Idaho and Leanne (Neil) LeGare of Portland, Oregon; his grandchildren, Lindzey Rasmussen, Brandon Rasmussen, Colton Rasmussen, Lexanna Rasmussen, Derrick (Trish) Cox, and Lucas LeGare; and his great-grandchild, Evelyn Cox. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends across Hong Kong, San Francisco, and Hawaii.

He was preceded in death by his father, Yau Cheung; his mother, Pat Leung; and his mother-in-law, Pui Ying Ng.

Kit-Man’s legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the many lives he touched with his kindness and generosity.

His favorite saying was, “Eat everything and it will be a good day.”