Adam Junior Ilaban's Obituary
Adam Ilaban Obituary
Adam Junior Ilaban, also known as Adam Ilaban Sr., was born on June 10, 1934, in Helemano, Wahiawa, Hawaii. He passed away on April 4, 2024. Adam was the fifth of nine children born to Martin and Mary Ilaban.
Adam graduated from Waipahu High School in June 1954 and immediately joined the Army, serving his country during the Korean War. He was honorably released from active duty on February 11, 1960, having earned a Certificate of Proficiency in Wheel Vehicle Repair and a Certificate of Training in EASCOM Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic School.
In 1959, Adam met Catalina through her youngest brother, Ricardo, at Rainbow Roller Land (near the old Likelike Drive Inn). They married at Our Lady of Peace on Bishop St on June 4, 1960. They lived in the Ilaban family home on Pohakupuna Rd where they raised their six children.
Adam was a dedicated heavy machine operator and worked at several construction companies, including Nordic, Royal, Richard Lee Trucking, LAK, and Koga. In his free time, Adam enjoyed helping his friends with projects, pole fishing (or as Papa would say holoholo), bowling, walking, spending time with his family, dancing, singing, and taking trips to Vegas. He will be remembered for his hard work, dedication to his family, and service to his country. Adam leaves behind a legacy of love and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of almost 64 years, Catalina Labuanan Ilaban, and their children: Brenda (Roman) Salas, Adam (Jessica) Ilaban Jr, Stacey (Josephina) Ilaban Sr, Calvert “Nathan” (Sibyl) Ilaban, Bernadette “Bernie” (Duncan) Gella, and Martin (Tricia) Ilaban; adopted children: Shantel Ilaban, Shawna Lee (Kaulana) Akeo, Brandon (Jennifer) Ilaban, and Dante Ilaban; as well as their hanai daughter: Shayna (Solomon) Chung. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 52 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Adam was preceded in death by his grandson, Jason D.K. Ilaban. He is also survived by his sisters, Petra Perreira and Josephine Torralva.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Mililani Memorial Park and Mortuary, Makai Chapel. Open visitation at 5:30 pm, with services to follow at 6:30 pm. Casual attire.
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