Edward Ka'anehe Jr.'s Obituary
Edward Ka’anehe Jr., lovingly known to family and friends as “Choppy,” passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, at his home in Mililani, Hawaiʻi, at the age of 71.
A man of profound dignity, boundless compassion, and quiet greatness, Choppy leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, and service that touched everyone blessed to know him.
Born in Honolulu and raised at Kalaeloa, Barbers Point Lighthouse, Choppy grew up with the spirit of Hawaiʻi deeply rooted in his heart. At James Campbell High School, he was Student Body President and a standout quarterback. He inspired others on and off the field with leadership, integrity, and a gift for bringing people together.
Choppy built an extraordinary career in Hawaiʻi’s hospitality industry. He began as Chief Steward at the iconic Moana Surfrider and went on to serve in leadership roles at Prince Kuhio, Halekulani, Hawaiian Regent, Hilton Hawaiian Village, and Ihilani Resort. He also worked with Hawaii Care & Clean, managing operations at Ward Warehouse and throughout the neighbor islands. He earned countless awards, yet his greatest reward was serving others and mentoring young professionals with aloha and respect.
Choppy’s greatest joy was his family. He is lovingly survived by his beloved wife, Marlena “Kiki” Ka’anehe; son, Adam Ka’anehe; daughter, Chasidy Ka’anehe; brother, Ricky Ham Young (Denise); sisters, Freddiann Hitchcock (David) and Pumehana Spencer (Mike); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives he made better simply by being part of them.
A faithful servant in his church and community, his quiet devotion, generosity, and compassion reflected the love of Christ in everything he did. His life was a testament to the belief that true greatness is measured not by position or recognition, but by how faithfully we love and serve others.
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