John E. Salbedo's Obituary
John E. Salbedo, a man who never needed the spotlight to shine, passed away at his home in Waialua, Hawaii on March 26, 2026 at the age of 71.
Born in Pu’unene, Maui on October 1, 1954 and raised in Kihei as the eldest of 9 to Lillian and Epipanio Salbedo (predeceased). John graduated from Baldwin High School in 1972 then served in the United States Army. He worked in the air conditioning industry for over 40 years at Carrier Hawaii until his retirement in 2020. He shared 48 wonderful years married to his wife, Helen. Known for his quiet demeanor and sharp, unexpected wit, John lived a life that proved you don’t need to be loud to make a lasting impression. His strength in his presence was enough. He was the definition of humble—preferring a quiet evening, a good joke, and the company of those he loved over any grand spectacle. Sometimes you could catch him cruising the island on his Harley, other days he would sit by the ocean, fishing with family or watching the boats roll in at the Haleiwa Boat Harbor while sipping on a McDonald's Coke Freeze. He taught us that the best things in life are simple, and his wisdom and humor will be missed more than words can say.
He is survived by his wife, Helen; their five children; Davlyn, Shane, John, Blake, and Michelle; 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
A private celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.
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