Giora Ben-Horin

Giora Ben-Horin, a beloved husband, father and friend, who lived life with passion and joy, passed away peacefully at home on February 20, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born in Tel-Aviv on May 4, 1936, Giora immigrated to New York City at the age of six. A promising student, Giora learned English quickly at P.S. 9, ultimately earning a Ford Foundation Scholarship to Columbia College at just sixteen. After a two-year army deployment in France, Giora enrolled in Columbia Law School and supported himself by proudly driving a Mr. Softee ice cream truck during the summers. Upon graduation, he joined the Tax Division of the Department of Justice in Washington D.C. where he met the love of his life, Arlene Kane. They married in 1965.

In 1967, Giora relocated his young family to Phoenix to pursue a career in private law practice where he thrived until successful forays into real estate led him to a second career in land investment. He founded Ben-Horin Arizona Properties in the early 1980s and later co-created Benross Corporation, serving as President until his passing. 

Giora had a zest for life, myriad interests and was considered one of a kind by his many friends. He traveled the world with Arlene and cherished one-on-one adventures with each of his children. He loved his newspapers, books, movies, film festivals and recounting stories of his youth. He loved jokes, card tricks and magicians. He loved gambling, poker and backgammon. He loved sports…tennis, basketball, football, skiing, racquetball and jai alai (oddly, he always maintained that he was most accomplished at ping pong). He loved his floor seats and football pool. He loved the Washington Redskins, the New York Yankees and the Phoenix Suns. He loved White Russians, Sabra and ice cream. He loved his many friends, his family and his grandchildren. He did not love the outdoors.

Giora is survived by his wife of 60 years Arlene; his children Michael Ben-Horin (Jeri), Elana Kane and Hallie Pizitz (Todd); five grandchildren; and his brother Daniel Ben-Horin (Jamie). He was preceded in death by his parents and his half-sister.

Friends and family will gather for a Celebration of Giora’s life in a few weeks.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix or The Heard Museum.