Donald Yates Keliinoi Sr.

Donald was a man who believed in people, stood by them, and helped them to move forward. A champion for the working person, he gave credit where it was due and stood up for others. He carried himself with humility and resilience shaped by his life experience. He was steady, grounded, and unwavering in his decisions.

He was someone who showed up for others, someone you could turn to when you needed advice, support, or a way through. Whether it was guidance, a connection, or even a place to stay, you could always count on Donald to be both a resource and a refuge.

He could be tough when it mattered, shaped by a life that demanded grit, yet he had a way of making people feel capable and supported. He had a natural ability to recognize potential, especially in those still finding their way, and was known for offering honest guidance and clear direction. His inner strength was balanced by a sharp sense of humor. He loved to laugh, bring people together, and enjoy life, often with a good drink in hand, reminding those around him not to take life too seriously.

Donald was born on November 14, 1932 in ʻEwa, Oʻahu, to Samuel Keliinoi Jr. and Emily Rapozo. Raised across Kāneʻohe, ʻEwa Beach, Waipahu, and ʻĀlewa Heights, he experienced a childhood marked by constant movement, hard work, and learning to adapt. From working the family’s farmland in ʻEwa, to living in a plantation camp at Pump 5 in Waipahu, to carrying heavy cases door-to-door selling pots and pans with his father in ‘Ålewa, he learned early what it meant to work hard and find his way in changing environments.

He often spoke of not quite fitting in as a young boy, an experience that shaped his empathy and lifelong support for those finding their way. His stories from those years, whether being chased by a bull in Kāneʻohe, watching fighter planes overhead during the attack on Pearl Harbor, or ditching his brother’s “put-put” from the cops near Lena Machado’s home, were told and retold to the delight of his ʻohana. Through it all, he developed resilience and the ability to find light even in difficult times. In his teenage years, he was part of a pantomime comedy group known as the Four Roses, an early expression of the humor and playful spirit he carried with him throughout his life.

He graduated from Saint Louis High School in 1950, a milestone he was proud of despite the challenges he faced growing up. As a young man, he worked as a scientific aide in Wahiawā, studying the relationship between ants and pineapple crops and contributing to efforts that helped sustain Hawaiʻi’s pineapple industry. He later worked as a clerk at Kapiʻolani Children’s Hospital, where he learned accounting and payroll systems. It was there that he recognized the value of education and opportunity, leading him to continue his studies at night while raising three young children with his their mother Geri. He went on to earn a BBA in Accounting from the University of Hawaiʻi. This period marked a turning point in his life and reflected his commitment to growth, stability, and providing for his family.

Donald went on to a 30+ year career with HMSA, starting as a mailroom clerk and retiring as Vice President of Marketing. He was respected and loved by many in the organization. As one colleague shared, “Kind and firm, direct and fair, you always knew where you stood with Don, and you knew he had your back. Even when he called you out, it was because he wanted you to be your best. Plus, he was such a rascal and fun guy.”

One of his proudest accomplishments was helping to establish the HMSA Employee Federal Credit Union. Facing what seemed like impossible chartering requirements, he found a way forward, an achievement he later described as one of his shining moments. It reflected the way he approached life: not accepting limits, but working through challenges with determination and clarity.

He was especially drawn to working with individuals and organizations that had a clear vision, offering his insight and support to help bring those visions to life. Throughout his life, he continued to give back to his community, serving in leadership and advisory roles for organizations including Make-A-Wish Foundation, Elks Lodge, Saint Louis Alumni Association, Keiki o Ka ʻĀina, Hawaii Hotel Association, and the Portuguese Cultural and Historical Center.

Later in life, Donald developed a deep interest in his moʻokūʻauhau (genealogy), dedicating himself to learning and understanding his family’s history. True to who he was, he did not keep that knowledge to himself. He shared it, encouraged others to ask questions, and inspired future generations to stay connected to their roots.

More than anything, Donald will be remembered for the way he showed up for others, with honesty, guidance, and a genuine desire to see people succeed. He took great pride in being a grandfather or “Gramps” as he lovingly was called, giving the kind of presence, care, and encouragement he once wished for himself.

He carried humor with him through every stage of life, bringing laughter even in his final days and reminding those around him to find light in all things.

He is survived by his son, Donald Keliinoi Jr. (Sue), and daughters, Avis Keliinoi and Denise Mollo; his former wife, Geri Menezes; his companion, Jean Takemoto; 9 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended ʻohana, close friends, and colleagues.

He is preceded in death by his siblings, Goldie, Gordon, Thomas, Emily (infant), and Annette Keliinoi, and was the last surviving sibling of his Keliinoi ʻohana.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Hawaiian Memorial Park at 9:00 AM.

In his own words:

“I never had a grandfather… and I wanted to be a good grandfather to all of you in any way I can. I love you all. Aloha.”