Joseph Michael Makarewicz

Joseph Michael Makarewicz Jr. passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep on February 25, 2023 in Lahaina, Hawaii.Born January 14, 1982, Joey was the first perfect child of Kelly Buchanan Grenell and Joe Sr. He was the first grandchild of Thomas Buchanan and Ted and Maureen Makarewicz.He brought joy into the world that lit up the lives around him. He was a practical joker and always goofing around.Joey was raised in West Michigan, growing up with loving and creative influences that opened up a life of exploring artistic genres. His love for the arts included areas in photography, mixed media, but mostly performance art which led him to Chicago in 2000. There he pioneered a pop-up style space for artists and musicians, known as the Transmission Gallery.His talent went beyond the arts; he was an avid skateboarder throughout high school, which expanded into a love of surfing. In 2009, Joe moved to Lahaina on the island of Maui, Hawaii, the place he would call his ‘hale’ (home). His dream was actualized. During his time in Lahaina, he was a member of the bands “Go Get Em” and “The Soot,” among other bands throughout his life. He loved to make beautiful music and shared that love with many. Joe's bold and unique ideas led to a group acquisition of a recording studio in Lahaina named Hi-Grade. The studio is saturated with the presence of Joey as well as the other renowned musicians who played there before. He also partnered in the creation of the creative retail venture known as “Goin Left.”Being a bright, yet old soul, Joe attracted people who immediately felt a kinship with him. Sharing laughs and heartwarming hugs were just two of the qualities that sealed long lasting friendships, creating Ohana, family.Joe leaves behind a legacy of love, talent, and fun. Although he may no longer have an earthly presence, everyone that knew Joey will agree that he left a piece of himself within each of our hearts.Aloha, Joey, we love you.Joey is survived by his mother and grandparents. Sisters Rachael, Sarah and Lorretta (Benny Duimstra). Brothers Benjamin, Levi, Jacob and Timotheus. Nieces Lahaila and Estella. Nephews Julian, Grayson and Evander. Step siblings Shain, Sonya, Samantha, Heidi and Zachary. And many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who adored him. He is preceded in death by his Grandma Mary Buchanan and Aunt Julie Buchanan.A celebration of life ceremony will take place at Jodo Mission, Lahaina, HI Saturday March 4th at 3 pm. At 4 pm friends will gather for a Paddle Out ceremony, a tradition honoring fellow surfers.An intimate traditional Hawaiian blessing service will occur at 12 Noon prior to the celebration of life on Saturday.For any who wish to contribute, a gofundme has been set up to help cover the funeral expenses and travel arrangements for his family. https://gofund.me/216cf43aA memorial in Michigan for friends and family will be scheduled at a later date.