Ben Bing Mar

Ben Bing Mar died peacefully in his sleep at Victoria Hospice, in the early morning hours of Tuesday, August 14th, two weeks short of his 92nd birthday.

Ben is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Dorothea and his two sons, Darryl (Beth) and Lance (Dorothy Jean). Ben was the eldest of 9 siblings, predeceased by his sister Jean and brothers Quinton and Toye. He is survived by brothers Jack and Bill and sisters Susan, Fani and Soleine, as well as by many nephews and nieces.

Ben was born in Victoria on August 29th 1920 and was a lifelong resident. In his youth during the 30’s he was a member of the Chinese Students Athletic Club basketball team (founded by his father Albert). After graduating from Victoria High School in 1938, Ben attended Victoria College.

Since 1946, Ben has been in the travel industry. First working as a passenger agent for the American President Line, in 1949 Ben started his own business, Marwon Travel. After selling Marwon Travel in 1974 he then became a Director for Bayshore Travel, then the Victoria Travel Shoppe. He remained in the travel business for his whole career until his retirement.

Ben was very active in the community from the 50’s to 70’s. Many people in the Victoria Chinese community remember Ben as the first Canadian they met as he helped them through immigration providing translation work in Vancouver or Sidney from 1949 – 1970. Ben also served as a Director of the Chinese Benevolent Association and the Chinese Hospital (now Chinatown Care Centre) for many years.

Ben loved travelling the world, especially his visits to Hawaii. He enjoyed music and watching sports, as well as playing golf as a member of the Gorge Vale Golf Club. Ben always will be remembered as a devoted husband, caring father and brother, loyal friend and true gentleman.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 20th, at 2:30pm at McCall Bros. Funeral Home, 1400 Vancouver St. In lieu of flowers, donations to Victoria Hospice will be greatly appreciated. Condolences to the family may be offered below.

www.mccallbros.com.

Print Obituary