Darlene L. Kashiwai
Darlene L. Kashiwai, 59, of Hanapepe, peacefully passed away on Sept. 23, 2021, at home, surrounded by her family. Lovingly referred to as “Mama” because of her motherly and caring demeanor, she will be sorely missed.
She was born on Sept. 28, 1961, in Honolulu. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1979 and received her associate degree in mid-management at Kapi‘olani Community College in 1981. She then moved to Kaua‘i in 1982, where she was employed with Kaua‘i Medical Clinic for 13 years and Hawai‘i Medical Service Association for seven years. In 2002, she then began her employment with the Hawai’i Health Systems Corporation, and ended her career after 19 years of service.
She became “Mama” in 2002. Her pride and joy, Tehani, was her everything. She took on the roles of mom/mama to everyone she was surrounded with. She liked to sew baby blankets, loved her family time, and was an avid fan of volleyball and baseball.
She was a happy, loving and genuine mother and friend who always put others before herself. Her advice was honest, straightforward and full of compassion. She always gave 110% and loved everything that she did. Her smiles and laughter gave us life and memories that will never be forgotten, and will remind us to always be happy. “Mama Dar” will live on forever in the memories of her family and friends, and we will never forget her.
She was preceded in death by father Arthur Kashiwai.
She is survived by her fur baby Nalu, son Mason (Taylor Gushiken) Lorenzo of Hanapepe, daughter Mari (Nicholas Taniguchi) Lorenzo of ‘Ele‘ele, granddaughter Tehani (Cory Goias-Soares) Togioka of ‘Ele‘ele, mother Alice Kashiwai of Manoa, brother Jason (Denice) Kashiwai of Mililani and nephew Shiloh Kashiwai of Mililani.
Private services will be held. A walk-thru visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 30, at Garden Island Mortuary in Lawa‘i. Burial will take place at a later time. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, face masks and social distancing are required.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
