Brennan Michael Kamahiahiwa Naea

Brennan Michael Kamahiahiwa Naea, 20, passed away on November 13, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. He was born on November 7, 2005, in Waimea, Kauai, Hawai‘i, to parents Mark and Linda Naea. From the very beginning, Brennan’s life was touched by miracle, purpose, and extraordinary love.

A Miraculous Beginning

Before Brennan was conceived, Linda faced a life-changing medical decision. In a moment of quiet reflection, she heard a voice say, “Perhaps there should be a child?” When she asked Mark if he had spoken, he gently replied, “If that isn’t the voice of God, then I don’t know what is.” With faith and courage, they chose to bring a child into the world.

Conception was difficult, and early pregnancy brought complications so serious that Linda spent months on strict bed rest. Their prayers were answered when Brennan arrived safely on November 7, 2005. Born with multiple health challenges, he was immediately flown to O‘ahu for surgery. Mark and Linda held their breath, trusting that the same divine guidance that began his story would continue to protect him. Brennan pulled through, and just before Thanksgiving, the family brought their miracle baby home to Kauai.

His Life and Light

Throughout his life, Brennan radiated a joy that touched everyone who had the blessing of knowing him. His mischievous smile and vibrant presence could fill any room with warmth. Though he was non-verbal and lived with Down syndrome and autism, Brennan revealed his intelligence in remarkable ways. He was endlessly curious, perceptive, and clever—an enigma who understood far more than he could express in words.

He was homeschooled and loved books, videos, and electronic games. Brennan had an especially extraordinary talent for technology; he was a genius with tablets and phones and took great delight in cracking passwords. Eventually, the family stopped trying to password-protect their devices—Brennan always found a way through.

Brennan required full-time care due to significant allergies and developmental needs. He did not understand personal hygiene or safety, would not feed himself, and remained in diapers, yet Mark and Linda embraced every moment of this journey with unwavering devotion and joy. Caring for Brennan was not a burden—they would often say they were the lucky ones chosen to be his parents.

A Joyful Legacy

As Brennan grew into adulthood, his needs remained the same, as did the steadfast love surrounding him. On November 7, 2025, Brennan and his family celebrated his 20th birthday—a remarkable milestone considering the challenges that marked both his arrival and his life. It was a day filled with gratitude, pride, and the quiet triumph of love against all odds.

Brennan is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, James and Hazel Yanagida, and his paternal grandparents, Bernard Naea Sr. and Patricia Ann Naea.

He is survived by his devoted parents, Mark and Linda Naea, his loving sister, Brianna Naea, Aunt Joy Miyoshi, and cousins Kelsey Miyoshi and Kori Miyoshi.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

Brennan’s journey began as a miracle, lived as a light, and will be remembered as a blessing. His life, though marked by profound challenges, was also filled with profound love—a love that will continue to guide and inspire those who cherished him.