Leonard Wayne "Bruddah" Paleka

Leonard Wayne “Bruddah” Paleka 71 of Paia passed away in the arms of his sister Regina and his sister Maile by his side, on August 5, 2023 at his place of residence at 246 Hana Hwy. in Paia. Leonard was born on April 13, 1952 to parents Leonard Kaleoiki Paleka and Pearl Makahanaloa Paleka King. Leonard is survived by his children, Naomi (Gary Sr.) Rebbelizsa, Ian Kupaa Paleka, Sharlla Ann Mailelani Manner, and Lenny Hank Manner; grandchildren, Garen, Malena, Kanani, Kealii, Ikaika, Deangelo, Lenny, and Elisha;16 great-grandchildren; siblings, Regina Ann (John) Galacia, Howard James (Ivy) Paleka, Michele S. Paleka (Charlie Kaili), Joey King, Faith Maile Shaw, Karen Noelani (John) Deguilmo, Sincerity Kapiolani Mirkovich, David Napihe (Nona) Shaw, Elizabeth Kala Shaw, Leslyn Mililani Paleka (China Kapuras), and many loving uncles, aunties, cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. He was predeceased by parents Leonard Kaleoiki Paleka and Pearl Makahanaloa Paleka King; and grandson, Gary Jr. Rebbelizsa.

Leonard graduated from Maui High School class of 1970. He was a proud Saber, class clown, popular with classmates. He always made sure to put his Paleka charm forward. Brother John Deguilmo knows they were classmates, and he can share stories.After high school he moved to Oahu and got his first job working as a landscaper at Kapiolani Botanical Rose Gardens in Honolulu. He enjoyed his work there, and learned all about the different species of roses. He learned to breed and graft roses. He was amazed when he saw the Chocolate rose for the first time. Later down the road, he returned to his home that he missed. There was no place like Maui. Leonard tried different jobs as a painter, installing garage doors etc. He was good with his hands. He loved to draw, paint, cook, plant and so much more. He loved surfing and hanging out at Hookipa Beach Park. It was his home away from home. He had an extended Ohana, The Aloha Hookipa Ohana. He enjoyed spending time cooking, talking stories, singing, playing music and just great fun partying. He has fond memories of his time there. His greatest love is for his children and grandchildren. Although he didn't get to see them frequently, he would look at their pictures, call them just to hear their voices. And shareMemories with family and friends. Leonard loved his entire Ohana so much. He said that his Paleka Ohana loved him unconditionally and he was blessed to be a part of this loving and blessed Ohana. Thank you to family and friends for being involved in his life. He was so loved and will be missed by many. We thank the Lord for receiving our brother Leonard and giving him the peace that passeth all understanding and now we know that he lives with our Lord and Savior.We would like to extend our warmest Mahalo to Maui Memorial Medical Center, Dr. Falit, Dr. Snell, Dr.Choi, Dr. Thielen, Dr. Heather Haines, Pacific Cancer Institute and Navigation Team, Bayada Services, Apria Services Maui Police Department, Paia Fire Department, Ballards Mortuary for the above and beyond care shown to our brother Leonard. You are in our hearts and prayers.

Funeral Services for Leonard Wayne “Bruddah” Paleka will be held at Paia Hawaiian Protestant Church at 246 Hana Hwy in Paia Hi. 96779, on September 8, 2023. Family Visitation 8:00 - 9:00. Public Visitation 9:00 -11:00. Service 11:00 -12:00. Officiator- Kahu Roy Newton.

Cremation to follow. Event- Private family scattering of ashes on Saturday September 9, 2023.