Lee Everette Kapuakea Balino
Mind over matter with perfect form, Lee Everette Kapuakea Balino completed his final set on July 30, 2022.
The eldest son of Naval Base Shipyard supervisor and Marine Corps veteran George Balino Jr. and Naomi Clark “Ami” Balino, he was raised with his siblings in their family home on Honohono Street in ‘Ai‘ea Heights, O‘ahu.
A 1974 graduate of Na Ali‘i O’ ‘Ai‘ea, #80 was an all-star wide receiver and offensive end. His passion for football was undeniable. A versatile athlete, he mastered every contact sport. His fondest and most cherished memories were spent with teammates and rivals on and off the field.
Dubbed an honorary “ladies man,” he was well known for his charm, charisma, chiseled physique, arrogantly good looks, his debilitating left hook and worldly knowledge.
There was always a war story when he was home. Attracting the locals with his wit and humor, many stopped in to listen. It was in those moments he shared of his love for Jehovah and the trials and tribulations that transformed him into the man he was.
Versed in the art of tai chi, his focus, meditation and breathing techniques carried him through the toughest fight of his life. An amazing mindset, strong and resilient, he is the epitome of strength, focus and perseverance. His legacy lives on.
Once a warrior, now a legend!
He was preceded in death by parents and sister Ellison Kehaulani Balino.
He is survived by siblings Honey Girl, Cheri, Lori, Kevin and Kalani, friend and foe for over 45 years Jaime “Ona” (Keith Kamana) Rankin, children Kapuakea (Eliah), Kimo (Melissa), Kanoelani (Duncan), Kaleo Balino, Ferdinand Lagundino, Craig Naka‘ahiki, Carlina Espino, Carly Nishibata and Alicia Kilpatrick, grandchildren Jordyn (Austin), Allison (Tony), Skylar (Ky), Jadyn (Jesse), Edyn, Dylan, Eryn, Cassie, Jameson, Bella, Reyn, Erdin, Kayden, Makayla, Te‘a and Sofia, hanai grandchildren Crystalyn, Taralyn, Jadelyn and Jedadiah, great-grandchildren Blayze and Leigha, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life is Sunday, Aug. 21, at Kanoe’s Hale, 553913 Kawaihau Rd, Kapa‘a, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. All are welcome. Please bring a war story in remembrance of our father. Opened to all who knew Lee, wish they knew him and for those who are hungry. Come help us celebrate the life of a true Hawaiian.
Kaua‘i Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Eleanor Maria Pontes
Eleanor Maria Pontes passed away on Aug. 7, 2022, in Kalaheo, at the age of 84. She was born on Nov. 8, 1937, in Lihu‘e. She was a housewife.
She was preceded in death by husband Louis Pontes Jr., son Roy Pontes, parents David Koerte Sr. and Concepcion Medina, brother David Koerte Jr., sister Janet Koerte and son-in-law John Silva Sr.
She is survived by son Louis (Michi) Pontes III of Kalaheo, daughters Diana Silva of Lawa‘i, Linda (Kevin) Kelekoma of Kalaheo, Brenda (John) Gebauer of Lihue, Sharlene (Paul) Barba of Kekaha, Lisa Pontes of Koloa and Karen (Kimo) Akita of Kalaheo, 23 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and sister Rose Castillo of El Paso, Texas.
A service is Saturday, Aug. 27, at St. Raphael Church in Koloa, with viewing from 9 to 10 a.m. and Mass at 10 a.m. The family requests casual attire and welcomes flowers.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
Norman K. Titus
Norman K. Titus passed away on Aug. 11, 2022, at Wilcox Medical Center at the age of 88. He was born on May 6, 1934, in Haines, Oregon. He was a retired computer facilities maintenance man.
He was preceded in death by parents Marvin and Gertrude Titus, brother Richard (Jill) Titus and sister Willora George.
He is survived by wife Carol Titus, son Gary (Mary Lou Mindoro) Titus of Lihu‘e, daughter Gayle Westfall of Nampa, Idaho, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, brother Ron (Dorthy) Titus of Union, Oregon, sister Cinda Peterson of Newbury, Oregon, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
