Robert Kwee, age 88, of Cox’s Creek, passed away peacefully on Aug. 11, 2026. Born on March 15, 1938, in Pare, East Java, Indonesia, Robert was a man of deep intellect, personal faith, and mischievous spirit, a trait he never quite grew out of, to everyone’s delight. But more than anything, he will be remembered for his warm smile and welcoming disposition, which never wavered no matter how his day had gone.
In recognition of his academic achievement, Robert earned multiple merit-based scholarships. He went on to study at the Université de Paris and serve as a university statistics lecturer before moving to Canada, where he earned his MBA from McMaster University and became a Certified Management Accountant (CMA). True to his analytical mind, he was known for his oft-repeated catchphrase — “you must think, and then think again” — a lesson he impressed upon his children. Upon settling in the United States, Robert channeled his business acumen into entrepreneurship, successfully building and operating a dry cleaning business alongside his brothers.
Above all, Robert was guided by unshakable personal faith and deep gratitude to God. He was a devoted member of the Catholic Church and served as a Knight of Columbus, achieving Honorary Life Membership in the Third Degree. He took immense pride in his family and leaves behind a legacy of hard work, tenacity, and dedication. Those who knew him best will also remember his deep love of ice cream and all dogs.
Robert is survived by his three daughters, Vivian (Christopher) Mast, Lauren (Scott) Hicks, and Norma (Lauren) Kwee; his 8 cherished grandchildren, Darian, Maddie, Alexis, Scarlett, Kaiden, Chloe, Atlas, and Ren; and his two brothers, Ben (Gail) and Ian (Lisa). He is also survived by his cousin Henry (Vonny), who was more like a brother to him, as well as ten loving nieces and nephews and a large extended family of great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kwee Tjan Bo and Liem Hiang Nio, his brothers Jim and Richard, and his sister Marian.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church on Tuesday, August 18th at 11 a.m.
A graveside service will be held in North Carolina in November.
Barlow Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.