Benjamin Shuet-Kin Leung

Benjamin Shuet-Kin Leung passed away peacefully at his home on May 9, 2026. In his final days, he was able to share quiet, personal moments with each member of his loving family. Benjamin was born in Hong Kong, then a British colony, and spent his childhood there before pursuing his education in the United States. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Seattle Pacific University and later completed his PhD in Biochemistry at Colorado State University. A gifted scientist and dedicated researcher, Benjamin devoted his life to advancing the understanding and treatment of cancer. Following his doctoral studies, he completed post-doctoral work at Vanderbilt University. He went on to serve as an Associate Professor in breast cancer research at Oregon Health Sciences University and later as a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at University of Minnesota, where he conducted pioneering research in breast and endometrial cancer. Through his groundbreaking work on estrogen receptors in breast cancer, Benjamin helped lay the scientific foundation for Tamoxifen, a treatment that has improved and extended the lives of countless women around the world. His contributions to science were regarded by many in the medical and scientific community as being of Nobel Prize significance, and his legacy continues through the lives touched by his research. On October 19, 1964, Benjamin married the love of his life, Helen beginning a marriage that would span decades of devotion and partnership. Together they built a family and raised three children: Kay, Titus, and Steven, who were a constant source of pride and joy to him. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Benjamin found great fulfillment in simple pleasures and in creating beauty with his hands. He was an avid gardener who designed and cultivated gardens at every home where he lived, filling them with vibrant flowers, vegetables, and herbs. At the family home where he lived for more than 45 years, he personally designed a three-season porch and deck and took pride in renovating the kitchen and other areas of the house himself. He approached each project with patience, skill, and care. Fishing was perhaps his greatest passion. Benjamin found deep peace on the water, content to sit for hours with a rod in hand, enjoying the stillness and rhythm of nature. Whether tending to his garden or casting a line from a boat, he treasured the quiet moments that allowed him to reflect and recharge. Benjamin's Christian faith remained a steady and meaningful presence throughout his life. He faithfully attended a non-denominational church each Sunday and formed lasting friendships within that community. The fellowship, support, and spiritual connection he found there brought him comfort, strength, and encouragement, especially during life's more challenging times. Benjamin will be remembered for his brilliant mind, quiet determination, loving devotion to his family, and the lasting beauty he created in both science and in the world around him. His life was one of remarkable achievement, service, and love, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Benjamin is survived by his loving wife Helen Leung; his three children: Kay, Titus, and Steven; and his five grandchildren: Kira Helberg, Zoe Leung, Adam Leung, Dylan Leung, and Isabella Leung. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, extended family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and work. A memorial service to celebrate Benjamin's life will be held at St. John's Family Funeral Home on June 27, 2026 at 11 a.m.

Benjamin Shuet-Kin Leung

June 30, 1938 - May 9, 2026