Obituaries for Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Jaysha Lynn Kami‘inani Hulama
Jaysha Lynn Kami‘inani Hulama
On Feb. 16, 2025, our precious Jaysha Lynn Kami‘inani Hulama gained her angel wings. Born on December 30, 1997, in Honolulu, Hawaii, she brought joy and love to all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her brother Braden Hulama, Nana Judi Spencer, Papa Hoby Van Gieson, and Papa Bush Hulama.
Jaysha leaves behind her parents Tasha and Warren Tavares, and Kanani Hulama, sisters Jayann Hulama, Jadynn Tavares, and Shaelynn Tavares, grandparents Al and Lani Aranio, Linda Funes, and Nova Hulama, great-grandparents Ben and Mary Aranio and Fred Spencer, as well as numerous aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at The Church at Koloa, with visitation starting at 9 a.m. and services commencing at 10:30 a.m. Lunch will follow at the Koloa Neighborhood Center. In honor of Epilepsy Awareness, please wear purple casual attire. Lei and flowers are welcome.
Garden Island Mortuary assisted with her arrangements.
Lyle Bjork
December 4, 1940 March 6, 2025
Lyle was born Dec. 4, 1940, in Seattle, Washington, to Florence and Gordon Bjork. He was predeceased by them and by his sister, Priscilla Orr. He is survived by Ann, his wife of 58 years, children Eric (Susan) and Rachel (Steven Simpson), and brother Gordon (Susan).
A grandchild of immigrants from Sweden, Lyle was raised in an environment of religious and political conservatism. But Dartmouth College and two years in Turkey with the newly formed Peace Corps made him realize that life can be very varied, unpredictable, and wonderful. These experiences formed his views for the rest of his life.
After the Peace Corps, Lyle earned a master’s in teaching and met Ann. They married and moved to Seattle, where Lyle taught social studies and history before moving on to real estate for the rest of his career. But paid activities were only part of Lyle. He enjoyed playing the flute, singing in everything from small church choirs to Seattle Opera Chorus, and traveling to countries all over the world. A multitalented man, Lyle built everything from a vacation house to many pieces of beautifully crafted furniture to a boat in the basement (not known to always measure carefully, he accomplished a small miracle by getting it out the window as planned). Somehow, he also found time for numerous church activities, tennis, bike riding, and reading. He had a lively, varied, and satisfying life.
By 2009, Ann had had three joint replacements that left her feeling constantly cold in Seattle, so she and Lyle once more did the unpredictable and moved to Kauai, where they knew no one and had no permanent housing arranged-but quickly remedied both. Lyle continued his pursuits, enjoying learning about another new culture. In 2013, with both now in their 70s, he proposed putting all their stuff in storage and going around the world, planning as they went. It was the trip of a lifetime, constantly varied and unpredictable and fun. Upon returning to Kauai, they faced again the challenge of finding a place to live, living briefly in the church parsonage before finding more permanent shelter.
Gradually, it became apparent that Lyle had dementia, which had plagued his family for generations, and his last years were spent in its grip. He died peacefully, thanks to Kauai Hospice.
The family would like to thank Lyle’s private caregiving team for providing him the best of care, sometimes under difficult circumstances as his disease progressed. The staff and residents of The Regency at Puakea have been stalwart and caring of both Lyle and the family. The congregation of Hanapepe United Church of Christ has sent oceans of prayers. And there are not enough thanks to give Hospice its due.
There will be a private service at a later date. Remembrances, if desired, may be sent to your favorite cause, provided it is kind to humans and other living organisms. Ann would love to know what your choice is.
James Tsutomu Sakai
James Tsutomu Sakai, 82, of Kalaheo, was born on Feb. 1, 1943, and passed away peacefully on Feb. 1, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he resided with his son Darin, daughter-in-law Natasha, and granddaughter Reve since July. He enjoyed watching sports, eating good food, visiting Kauai friends at the California Hotel, and keeping the cats entertained.
James joined the U.S. Army immediately after high school. His career in the hospitality industry began humbly as a busboy at Kauai Surf, where he worked his way up to become a Food and Beverage Manager. In the early ’70s, he moved to Maui to manage food and beverage at the Maui Surf Hotel. When that establishment closed, he took on the same role at the Kaanapali Beach Hotel. In the early ’90s, he returned to his home island of Kauai, where he later worked in security at the Hyatt Regency until his retirement.
He was preceded in death by his wife Sarah Elizabeth Sakai, brothers Douglas Masayuki Sakai and William Teruo Sakai.
James is survived by his sons Darin (Natasha) of Las Vegas, Timothy Urquhart of Oahu, daughter Suzanne Sakai-Ajimine (Jonathan) of Kalaheo, grandson Isaac Dumlao of Bellingham, Washington, granddaughters Reve Ferraro, Jessica Ferraro, nephew William Sakai Jr. (Samantha) and niece Amy Rita (Greg).
Services will be held at the Kauai Veterans Cemetery on Saturday, March 22 at 9 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity of your choice in James’s memory.
Garden Island Mortuary assisted the family with arrangements.
Shannon Akiko Morishige
Shannon Akiko Morishige, of Kauai, passed away on Jan. 27, 2025, at home at the age of 49. She was born on Oct. 11, 1975, in Lihue, Kauai.
She was preceded in death by Bobby and Hatsue Tasaka and Edward and Dora Morishige.
She is survived by her parents Susan and Dwight Morishige, sister Kylie (Adam) Hussey, nephews Micah Hussey, Noah Hussey, numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.
A service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Garden Island Mortuary in Lawai.
Visitation begins at 9 a.m., followed by service at 10 a.m. The family requests casual attire and flowers be omitted.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
Chelsey K. Anguay
Chelsey K. Anguay, of Kekaha, passed away on March 9, 2025, at home at the age of 40.
She was born on Jan. 7, 1985, in Waimea, Kauai.
She was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Richard and Cathlene Broyles and maternal grandparents Dennis and Eden Simao.
She is survived by her husband Conrad Anguay Jr. of Kekaha, daughter Honesty K. Anguay of Kekaha, parents Dorothy and Charles Kaliloa of Kekaha, Richard Broyles Jr. of Illinois, brothers Benson Broyles of Kekaha, Brandon Broyles of Hanapepe, sisters Ashley Kaneapua of Lawai, Malia (Keith) Bornitz of Idaho, numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A service will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Garden Island Mortuary in Lawai. Visitation and celebration of life from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The family requests aloha attire and welcomes flowers and leis.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
Harley Morris
Harley Morris, of Kapaa, passed away on Feb. 26, 2025, at the age of 53. He was born in Lihue on Feb. 26, 1972.
He loved the ocean for its bounty produced from spearfishing and its beauty as he paddled his kayak upon her.
He was preceded in passing by his father Frederick “Larry” Morris and grandma Amelia Santella.
He is survived by his mother Mary Bryan, brother John (Jenna) Morris, sisters Naomi (Will Hunt) Bryan, Grace (Braxton) Crosby, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Puka’s Ministries at 12 noon.
Kauai Memorial Gardens &Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Brian Toshio Kohatsu
Brian Toshio Kohatsu, age 56, of Anahola, Kaua’i, passed away on Feb. 10, 2025. He was born on March 25, 1969, in Kailua, O’ahu. He was known for his spirit and selflessness.
He was preceded in death by Eldon and Gayle Kohatsu.
He is survived by siblings Eldon (Rolinda), Dean (Dayna), Mike (Lani) and U’ilani, children Brandi (Caitlin), Codi, Beau (Lanikai), Pa’ani and Shaniah, grandchildren JonJon, Jacia, Lily, Acestyn, Warren, Brixton and Brooklyn.
His Memorial Services will be held on both O’ahu and Kaua’i.
O’ahu service will be held at the Waimanalo Hawaiian Homes Association on Thursday, March 27, at 9 a.m.
Kaua’i service will be held at the Kaua’i War Memorial Convention Hall on Friday, March 28, at 5 p.m.
Brian’s spirit will remain forever in our hearts. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate Brian’s life and the joy he brought to all of us.
Ronald T. Valdez
Ronald T. Valdez, of Eleele, passed away on Feb. 21, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on Dec. 9, 1948, in Lihue. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army.
He was preceded in death by his parents Tranquilino and Felicidad Valdez, brother Charles Valdez and brother-in-law Eli Pablo.
He is survived by his wife Novena Valdez, son Ronson Valdez of Hanamaulu, stepson Ramah Wong of Kapaa, daughters Tisha (Mareques) Henderson of Florida, Dawn (Matt) Lopez of Kapaa, Chelsey Valdez of Eleele, brother Standford Valdez of Kalaheo, sisters Juliette (Julie) Valdez of Oahu, Erlinda (Dennis) Schleie of Las Vegas, Sylvia Pablo of Kaumakani, 15 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A service will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the Garden Island Mortuary in Lawai. Visitation from noon to 1:30 p.m., followed by service at 1:30 p.m. Burial will be at the Kauai Veterans Cemetery on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 9 a.m.
Garden Island Mortuary assisted the family with arrangements.
Midori ‘Linda’ Yokote
Midori “Linda” Yokote, of Lihue, passed away on Feb. 22, 2025, at Wilcox Hospital at the age of 99. She was born on Jan. 31, 1926, on Kauai. She was a cook and manager of the Waimea Big Save snack bar, and proprietor of Linda’s Restaurant.
She was preceded in death by her husband Takayoshi Yokote, father Hiroki Tokunaga, mother Hatsue Tokunaga and brother Henry Tokunaga.
She is survived by her son Craig (Donna Yadao) Yokote of Eleele, daughters Cynthia Fujimoto of Lihue, Elaine (Gene) Otoman of Waimea, Shelly (Kenn Firestone) Yokote of Kapaa, grandchildren Scott Fujimoto, Stacey (David) Kauka, Shawn Yokote, Darin Otoman, Leighton (Daphne) Otoman, great-grandchildren Kehau Yokote, Kailen Otoman, Deiton Otoman, Deilen Otoman, sister Wilma Oyama of Lawai, sister-in-law Helene Tokunaga of Oahu, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Garden Island Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.
Maria Udaundo Caoili
Maria Udaundo Caoili, of Lihue, passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 87. She was born in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, Philippines on Aug. 29, 1937, and was a housekeeper at Kauai Coconut Beach Resort, waitress at Hamura Saimin and seamstress.
She was preceded in death by her husband Eusebio Caoili, parents Calixto and Priscilla Udaundo, brother Esteban Udaundo and brother-in-law Lino Beñas.
She is survived by her son Alex (Connie) Caoili, daughter Emelda Dias, brothers Alejandro (Carmelita) Udaundo, Roberto (Lolita) Udaundo, sisters Cristina Beñas, Rosalina (Pablo Virgilio) Valdez, sister-in-law Florentina Udaundo, grandchildren Melinda (Chris) Ishida, Tara-Lynn (Brandon) Kaui-Egami, Keahi Dias, Mariah (Miles) Inada, Taira Caoili, great-grandchildren Kenji, Kanoa and Kiana Ishida, Tiare and Micah Kaui, Xaelyn and Adrian Remigio, Hayden and Mahina Inada, Lexie Caoili, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Michael and All Angels Church. Viewing will begin at 9 a.m. with services to follow at 10:30 a.m. Burial will take place at Lihue Cemetery after services have been completed.
Kauai Memorial Gardens &Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Norman Y. Hashisaka
Norman Yukio Hashisaka, beloved husband, dad, papi, grandpa, great grandpa, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend to many, passed away on Jan. 8, 2025, at 99 years old. Born in Waianae, O‘ahu, and raised on Kaua‘i and O‘ahu, Norman attended Kaua‘i High School and graduated from McKinley High School. He volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Military Intelligence Service, which was later honored with the Congressional Gold Medal for its exceptional service.
Upon returning to Hawaii, Norman met the love of his life, Mabel Kawakami, at the University of Hawaii. They began their life together on the Big Island, where she taught school and he worked for his brother-in-law’s company, Suisan, Inc. They later returned to Kaua‘i, where he served in various capacities within the Kawakami family businesses, eventually becoming president of Big Save, Inc. and Eleele Shopping Center, as well as chairman of N.F. Kawakami Store, Ltd. He also helped found Kaua‘i Kookie and ran the Kaua‘i Laundromats business. He was a lifetime Lions Club member. Norman was a longtime member of his church (Hanapepe United Church of Christ) and was supportive of many other faith communities.
Norman was known for his calm and kind demeanor, and his contributions were many as he served on numerous boards and commissions. He actively assisted with our sister-city relationships. Throughout the decades, he worked tirelessly to promote Kaua‘i and to make both Kaua‘i and Hawaii better places for all.
Norman is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 71 years, Mabel, his children Reid (Marilyn) Hashisaka, Ruth (Clyde Fukuyama) Hashisaka, Ann Hashisaka, his grandchildren David (Brittany) Hashisaka-Peters, Hisa Hashisaka, Justin Akiyoshi, Liam Fukuyama, his great-grandchild Rogue Hashisaka-Peters, his sister-in-law Yukie Murakami, numerous nephews, nieces, grandnephews, and grandnieces, along with a large and loving extended ‘ohana.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center (3215 Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Highway) in Lihue. Visitation will be from 9 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a service at 11:30 a.m. and lunch afterwards. Burial will take place on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Veterans Cemetery in Hanapepe at 1 p.m., followed by a gathering at Kaua‘i Kookie in Kalaheo.
Silas ‘Charlie’ Kaumakahia Aqui
Silas “Charlie” Kaumakahia Aqui passed away on Jan. 17, 2025, at his home in Kapa‘a, Hawaii, surrounded by his ‘ohana. He was born on Aug. 11, 1962, to Silas Aqui and Marion Haruko Toguchi. Charlie, a carpenter by trade, loved the ocean, and spent a lot of time fishing and diving. He also enjoyed hanging with the Lihi crew.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law Wayne Watanabe and Nelson Makanani.
He is survived by his siblings Joseph (Rita) Aqui of College Place, Washington, Gerald (Wanda) Aqui of Kalaheo, Hawaii, Kathleen Watanabe of Wailua, Hawaii, Glenn (Linda) Aqui of Puhi, Hawaii, Jan Makanani of Hilo, Hawaii, Reggie (Phil) Aqui of San Francisco, California, and Marc (Dow) Aqui of Atlanta, Georgia. He is also survived by his stepmother Marti Aqui of Aberdeen, Maryland, numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and his beloved cat Niele.
Charlie’s ‘ohana invites family and friends to celebrate his life on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cobb-Adams’ River House in Anahola (4271-E Kamane Road).
Elizabeth ‘Betty’ May Eberle Unanian
Elizabeth “Betty” May Eberle Unanian, a beloved wife, teacher, and champion for animals, passed away peacefully on Feb. 14, 2025, at the age of 97, surrounded by love and friendship.
Betty was born on June 20, 1927, in South Central Los Angeles to Harold Frederick Eberle of New York and Sarah Martha Woodbury of California.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Martha Eberle, her brother Harold Eberle Jr., and in 2003, her beloved husband and best friend Ed.
She is survived by her niece Teresa Bradbury of California and her nephew Mark Eberle of Florida.
Betty’s ohana would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the incredible staff at the Regency of Puakea, where she was not just cared for, but truly loved. She always said this was where she wanted to spend the rest of her life. Thank-you for doing more than you thought was possible. A special thanks also to the compassionate staff of Hospice, who ensured her final days were filled with dignity and comfort.
Betty’s Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Kauai Humane Society. No koden please. Betty loved everything animals and would love for you to donate in her memory.
Pernella Patricia Duarte Beardsley
Pernella Patricia Duarte Beardsley, formerly Soares, passed away on March 26, 2024, in Henderson, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and dedication to her family.
She was born on May 20, 1961, on the island of Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, to Ronald “Skippy” Duarte and Patricia “Patsy” Duarte.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Ryan and Darrick Duarte.
She is survived by her husband Sean Beardsley, four children Michelle Duarte, Ranelle (Francis) Kaawa, Jesse (Maile) Soares Jr., and Justin Soares, nine grandchildren Quiana Duarte, Chasen Alayvilla, Jazlyn Rivers, Darrick Willis, Keali‘imalu Kaawa, Shaylynn Soares, Isaiah Soares, Taimanu Soares-Chong, and Taimana Soares-Chong.
She is also survived by her sister Elizabeth (Jimmy) Duarte, brothers Ronald (Marleen) Duarte Jr. and Caesar (Vanessa) Duarte, and many loving nieces and nephews.
A service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Holy Cross Church in Kalaheo, Kaua‘i. Visitation will be from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., with Mass to follow.
