Henry Lanui Leslie's Obituary
Henry Leslie Obituary
Henry Lanui Leslie
May 3, 1936 – June 12, 2025
89 Years Old
Henry was born in Kealakekua, Hawaii on May 3, 1936. He died at home in Pearl City, Hawaii on June 12, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.
Henry is survived by his wife of 30 years, Nancy Leslie, Pearl City, Hawaii; sister, Joanna Gaspar, Kealakekua, Hawaii and his brother, Charles Leslie of Napo’opo’o, Hawaii.
Also surviving Henry are 4 of his 6 children: Richard Leslie, Kealakekua, Hawaii; Karen Leslie, Kapaa, Kauai; Sharon Tavares, Hilo Hawaii, John Leslie (Maxine), Hilo Hawaii, Step Children; Sara Cadamia (Chris) North Ridgeville, Ohio, Ryan Sadayasu, Pearl City, Hawaii. Preceding him in death, daughters; Nanette (Sweetie) Leslie (Karl Kekela Sr.), Hilo, Hawaii, and Betty Ann Leslie, Waianae, Hawaii.
Henry was blessed with a large family; 28 Grandchildren, 47 Great Grandchildren and 9 Great Great Grandchildren.
Henry was born to Henry Leslie Jr. and his wife Mary of Napo’opo’o, Hawaii. At a few days old he was hanai to his maternal Grandmother & Grandfather, Henry Lanui and Ida Kaneao. He was taken on their mule down to Ka’awaloa, where they lived. (Near where Capt. Cook’s monument is today). Henry was raised at Ka’awaloa until the war broke out in 1941 and the Army moved the family up mauka.
Henry’s parents and grandparents were all fisherman so that’s what he learned to do. However, he did work on the ranch of Sherwood Greenwell as a paniolo for eight years, which he was very proud of. He served in the National Guard in Kona for 6 years. Henry worked on the long line boat with his father and brothers. He moved to Honolulu in the early 70’s to take a job with Young Brothers but when they went on strike he decided to stick with fishing.
Henry had his own fishing business for about 55 years, retiring in 2022. First fishing out of Haleiwa, then Waianae and sometimes Sand Island. He was a very humble man with a beautiful smile, loved fishing for a living, loved all the friends he made and was loved by most people he met. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Henry requested that there be no funeral service. His statement was, all my friends & family, have a beer for me, carry on with life and be happy! A Hui Hou to our wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great great grandfather & friend!
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