Monette Ululani Yagodich

Monette Ululani (Souza) Yagodich, 70, of Waiehu, Maui, passed away peacefully at Hospice Maui Hale on May 23, 2023, after 4 days of prayers, visits, and expressions of aloha surrounded by family and friends.

Ulu was born on December 8, 1952, to Walter Edward Souza and Rosamond Lokelani Kahookele in Hilo, Hawai’i. She was raised in Honolulu and graduated from McKinley High School in 1970. Ulu continued her education at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, receiving a B.A. and M.S.W. in Social Work in 1976.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, For the rights of all who are destitute. (Proverbs 31:08)

Monette’s life focused on being of service, especially to Hawaii’s youth, opening up opportunities to those who were disadvantaged. She was a social worker at the Department of Human Services working with foster children and child abuse victims. At the University of Hawaii College Opportunities Program, Monette counselled young adults from groups underrepresented in the university system. She went on as Director of the Hawaii’s Youth at Risk Program. Monette later opened Choices Plus, a clothing store, which she ran successfully for 10+ years. Choices Plus was founded to support Hawaii’s women.

Ulu is survived by her husband Darrell Conrad Yagodich, her son Makia John Kahookele (Hannah) Yagodich, her sister Puanani Bridget (Douglas) Moore, her niece Kimberly Kehaunani Moore (Chappel), her in laws: Frank John (deceased) and Emmaline (Salvador) Yagodich, Francine Kehaulani Yagodich, and Dorothea Napua (Stephen) Ripani, her nephews: Frank John (Jennifer) Yagodich III, Stephen Kaeo (Taryn) Ripani, Shane Kekoa (Tiana) Ripani, and large ‘ohana.

Ulu’s ashes will be scattered along with her mother, Rosamond’s ashes in a private ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday July 30th, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made toward a memorial bench in her honor. Please direct any questions to [email protected]

One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek:That I may dwell in the house of the LordAll the days of my life,To gaze upon the beauty of the LordAnd to seek him in his temple. (Psalm 27:04)

Arrangements by: Norman's MortuaryOnline Condolences: www.NormansMortuary.com