Irene G. ‘Dede’ Wilhelm
Irene G. Wilhelm, affectionately known as Dede, 88, of Lihu‘e, was born on Jan. 19, 1934 in Kohala, Hawai‘i Island.
She was a well-known cocktail waitress at the former Kaua‘i Surf Hotel up until the day the hotel closed its doors. Her charm and excellent service could never be duplicated. Locals and tourists alike would return time and time again whether for a vacation or to relax and have a cocktail at the Planter’s Bar or Golden Cape just to see her. On Nov. 18, 2022, she gave her last call. She was surrounded and embraced by her loved ones when the almighty came and gently took her to eternal paradise.
Throughout her life she remained passionate about traveling the world, reading murder mysteries and writing and journaling. Another great passion of hers was criminal work. For six years, which was the term limit, she was the head of the Kaua‘i Board of Police Commissioners. She was also a member and served on the National Board of Police Commissions. It was all very time consuming and she enjoyed every single minute.
She was preceded in death by parents John Gonsalves and Clarinda Pinho Gonsalves, brother Arthur Gonsalves, sister-in-law Winnie Crawford Gonsalves, sons Jerry (Norma) Yahiku Jr. and Scott (Andrea) Yahiku.
She is survived by her husband Earl “Jack” Wilhelm, daughter Kristine (Darrell) Borrero, son Robin (Cathy) Yahiku and her most precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Our family would like to give a very, very special thank you to Bernie Kaeo for her unbelievable love and support. Also, a big mahalo to Kaua‘i Hospice for all of their time and wonderful care.
Private services were held.
Kaua‘i Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Imelda Negrillo Quiban
Imelda Negrillo Quiban passed away on Oct. 15, 2022, in Las Vegas at the age of 56. She was born on Aug. 26, 1966, in Luna, La Union, Philippines.
She is survived by husband Noli Quiban, siblings Feniano (Carmen) Negrillo, Cipriano (Shirley) Negrillo, Teresa Bailey, Patricia Negrillo, Maria (Chito) Zabala, Ramon (Glean) Negrillo, Vicky (Cecilio) Redaus, brother-in-law Alejandro Quiban Jr, sisters-in-law Nenita Quiban, Mercy Vasques, Renante Quiban, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life is Saturday, Dec. 10, at Immaculate Conception Church, with Rev. Fr. Edison Pamintuan presiding, assisted by Deacon Bill Farias. Viewing begins at 9 a.m. followed by Mass at 10 a.m. Final resting will be at a later date. Friends are welcome. The family suggests casual attire.
Kalapaki Bay Memorial Park assisted the family with arrangements.
Sonny Aulani Niau
Sonny Aulani Niau, 82, of Kekaha, passed away on Nov. 29, 2022. He was born on June 30, 1940, in Pu‘uwai, Ni‘ihau. He was a ranch hand, agriculture and laborer.
He was preceded in death by late wife Martha Ku‘uleipuanani Niau, parents Abraham “Keuao” Niau and Hannah “Kawaiola” Niau.
He is survived by sons Shane (Mila) Niau of Kekaha, Robin “Kila” Niau of Kekaha, daughters Yolanda K. Niau of Kekaha, Melody K. Kanahele of Hanapepe, Francine “Lei” Niau of Kekaha, Robin-Brianna K. Cabral of Kekaha, seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, sister Florence “Lolena” Nicholas of O‘ahu, numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A service is Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at the Garden Island Mortuary in Lawa‘i. Visitation begins at 9 a.m. followed by celebration of life. The family requests casual attire.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with the arrangements.
