Benjamin Santos Bonifacio

Benjamin Santos Bonifacio, age 88, passed away peacefully at Hale Makua in Kahului on January 29, 2026.

Ben was born on January 24, 1938, in Manila, Philippines, and was raised by his father, Alejandro Bonifacio, and mother, Pilar Santos, alongside his two brothers and sister. He lived in the Philippines, working in various jobs until 1960, when he began a 17½-year career with the National Census and Statistics Office.

In 1978, Ben moved with his first wife, Emilia, and son, Mario, to Maui. There, he worked in a variety of roles before retiring from Maui Memorial Hospital in 2010. In August 1986, he proudly became a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Ben was devoted to helping others. He gave his time to support political friends, contributed to numerous charities and his church, and used his skills as a tax preparer to assist family and friends. His generosity and dedication touched all who knew him.

After the loss of his first wife Emilia in 1996, Ben found love again and married Rosalina Ganir in 1998 at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Together, they shared many happy years until his recent passing.

Ben was preceded in death by his sister, Zenaida Bonifacio Santiago; his brother, Arturo Santos Bonifacio; and his first wife, Emilia Bonifacio. He is survived by his loving wife, Rosalina (Ganir) Bonifacio of Kahului, Maui; brother Conrado Santos Bonifacio of Manila, Philippines; son Mario Bonifacio of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren Hailey (Zachren) Paranada, Savanah (Shane) Suzuki, Tiffany Bonifacio, Tricia Bonifacio (Beau Moore), and Tobi (Adam) Cabrera; great-grandchildren Shaynah-Ann Suzuki, Shiloh-Kai Bonifacio-Suzuki, Luke Moore, Logan Moore, Asher Cabrera, and Miles Cabrera; as well as many nieces and nephews.