Herman Kealaula Awai's Obituary
Herman Kealaula Awai Obituary
Born January 6, 1931 in Ka?u, Hawai?i as Herman Kealaula Kawaha, Herman was the eldest son of Hana Ahuna and George K. Kawaha and later hanai to Mabel and Rev. James Awai of Hale’iwa, ‘O?ahu.
Herman remembered his childhood fondly and vividly into his last days. Much of his childhood after losing his mother at age 7 was spent with his father, the Deputy Sheriff of Ka?u. At age 10, Herman was working in the lima bean fields in Kunia, ?O?ahu when he witnessed Wheeler Army Airfield being bombed by planes in the first wave of attacks on Hawai?i during WW2. These planes flew over him in Kunia where he could see them proceed to bomb Pearl Harbor. He later became a proud Army soldier paratrooper of the 111th Airborne division with 57 jumps, 3 in combat. He served bravely in both the Vietnam War and Korean War. He retired from the US Army and Civil Services to spend time traveling with his wife and became affectionately known as the “Mayor of Ikuwai” by his Hale?iwa neighbors.
He spent his retired years driving around the island, picking mangoes from his trees, gathering his ?ohana, and talking story with anyone who crossed his path. His aloha and stories will be missed.
Herman is survived by his wife of 70 years Kazumi Fukui and sons Herman TK Awai (wife Cathy Awai), Michael S Awai (wife June Awai) and wife of his late son George K Awai, Yvonne Awai.
He leaves a legacy of 7 grandchildren: Daniela Menkewicz, Vita Awai, Deanne Leong, Daniel Awai, Amanda Awai, Mattew Awai, and Devin Awai.
3 great-grandchildren he was able to enjoy: Zeydin Awai, Mila Menkewicz, and Hunter Menkewicz.
Great-granddaughter Aria Awai was born in July following his passing.
Memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Mililani Mortuary Mauka Chapel. Visitation begins at 10:00 am and service at 11:00 am.
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