Wow… where do I begin?
Some of my fondest memories of Uncle Paul are from back in the day, watching him, my dad (Uncle Joe), Jared, Patrick, my sisters Carina and Nicole, Uncle Bruce, Aunty Eva, and everyone from Case Kay & Lynch playing volleyball together. Those days seemed so simple, but they became some of the most treasured memories of my life.
My mom, Lindy, and Aunty Jeannie were best friends, and their daughters, Jeanine and Patrice, became my best friends too. What started as friendship grew into something much deeper—we became family.
My dad always considered Uncle Paul his brother. He would tell everyone, “That’s my braddah,” and he loved him dearly. I remember all of us going to Zippy’s, Anna Millers, Shiros, Aiea Chop Suey, gathering together, laughing, talking story, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Looking back, those moments were worth more than all the gold in the world.
The bond between the Nuuanu and Basilio families was built on something truly special—unconditional love. The love we shared and the time we spent together were precious gifts, and I will forever be grateful that I got to witness what true family looks like. A family connected not by blood, but by a rare and beautiful love that few people ever get to experience.
I remember when Uncle Paul and my dad became close. Their friendship was something special. For a time, they were inseparable. Their bond was strong, genuine, and infectious—everyone wanted to be around them because they brought so much joy wherever they went.
Uncle Paul always spoiled us girls, showing up with all kinds of snacks and treats. He was always smiling, always laughing, and always willing to go the extra mile. To me, he and my dad were a package deal. Wherever one was, the other wasn’t far behind.
Now that I’m getting older myself (almost half a century… lol 😂), I realize just how blessed I was to have had Uncle Paul in my life. I can still feel those warm hugs and remember that look he’d give me—the side-eye Kine that said, “You better be doing good in school!” 😂
As you can probably tell, I was the mischievous one out of my sisters. Not naughty… just curious! Lol.
But I loved every moment I got to spend with Uncle Paul. He was the kind of person who would always go the extra mile for someone else. He was there when my dad needed him, and my dad was there when Uncle needed him. That’s what real friendship looks like.
Seeing Uncle Paul always made me happy because he reminded me so much of my dad. They were so alike—hardworking, generous, loving, and the kind of men who would give you their last dollar if you needed it.
Uncle Paul had one of those rare hearts that you don’t come across often. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing him was touched by something special. There was only one Uncle Paul, and no one could ever replace him.
I love you, Uncle.
I know you’re up there playing volleyball again with my dad and all the gang. And I’m pretty sure my mom is still keeping score, just like always. 😂
You will never be forgotten. Thank you for the love, the laughter, the memories, and for being such an important part of my life.
Until we meet again, Uncle Paul. Watch over all of us. We love you always. ❤️
