Ivan Gin Keong Lui

Ivan Lui passed away after a full and very active life. He graduated from Iolani High School, the University of Hawaii with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and earned a Master’s degree in Counseling at Chaminade University.

He enjoyed challenging himself. He completed two marathons and more than 10 additional fun runs and benefit races. He surfed, hiked, biked, and most recently played pickleball.

He was an Eagle Scout who served the community. He volunteered for neighborhood watches, Chinatown beautification projects, beach and hiking trail cleanups. Ivan was passionate about helping the environment. He volunteered to assist on a farm in Kona and one in Makaha. There he experienced living off the land. He came home with knowledge about farming and sustainability. At his apartment complex he was growing tomatoes and experimenting with various herbs.

Ivan will always be fondly remembered as a knowledgeable and witty teacher by his many students. He was able to illustrate vocabulary lessons, or act out concepts to reach his students. He was a tutor with Phonics Plus, and the Chaminade Learning Center. He also taught with Global Village at an English primary school in Japan. At Hawaii Pacific University, he was the International Students Coordinator. In these jobs he gained lifelong friends with students and faculty.

His last job was as a funeral director at Borthwick Mortuary. In his desk were many notes and letters from the clients he helped. He was a well liked and tireless worker, and in 2023 he was awarded the Service Excellence Award.

Reflections from family and friends: He was extremely thoughtful and always remembered my birthday. Infectious humor. Generous. Confident. Best cross country coach. He played the violin at Carnegie Hall in his senior year of high school. Artistic. Good cook.

Aloha Ivan.