Siu Ako Imuli Sharits

Siu Ako I Muli Sharits, 43, of Wailuku, passed away on January 12, 2026, at San Mateo Medical Center in California, surrounded by her sons. She was born in Maʻufanga, Tongatapu, Tonga, on July 20, 1982.

She is survived by her sons, Jacob “Sekope” Ryan Punalei Sharits and Mitieli Joshua Wayne Sharits; her mother, Helena (Tolutaʻu) Akau; stepfather, Kesoni Tokelau Akau; siblings, Samuela (Ivori) Tolutaʻu, Akanete Hulita (Tolutaʻu) Afeaki, and Vili Kihe Numa Nakasamai (Collee-Ann) Tolutaʻu; and many nieces and nephews: Ezekiel Sombelon, Cyenna Amina, Kelisimi James Tolutaʻu, Ivori Hevani Tolutaʻu, Eden Mamani Makalita Tolutaʻu, Humble Moon Tolutaʻu, Mafi Feaomoelotu Afeaki, Sau Afeaki, Vili Kihe Niuma Afeaki, Duke Malohi Kuoha Nobuyuki Kanuha, Masayoshi Matavaitafe Tolutaʻu, Zion Matavaitafe, and Helena Ane Matavaitafe Tolutaʻu.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth “Kenny” Wayne Sharits; her father, Kelisimi Tolutaʻu; her in-laws, Dale and Barbara Sharits; and her sister-in-law, Shannon Sharits.

Siu was a devoted and tireless hard worker who cared deeply for her family and community. She first began working at Burger King, then started her career as a Family Service Advisor at Maui Memorial Park, where she worked for six years. She later spent the next twelve years at Kihei Youth Center as a Youth Specialist. There, she played a key role in the after-school program, led the snack shop, taught financial literacy, and oversaw meal programs during school breaks.

In 2020, she joined the Maui Food Bank as a Warehouse Support staff member and driver. There, she quickly became more than a team member—she became family. Full of life and known for her laugh, loud voice, jokes, and singing throughout the warehouse, Siu brought warmth and energy to everyone around her. She took great pride in her work and led by example. She left a lasting impression on her team, volunteers, partner agencies, Da Market, and all who came through the Maui Food Bank.

In 2022, Siu and her beloved husband, Kenny, were both diagnosed with cancer and battled the illness at the same time while raising two young sons. Siu is now reunited with her husband, who preceded her in death after his battle with lymphoma.

Psalm 91:11

For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Mahalo nui loa… Malo ʻaupito… to our family, friends, community, and everyone who crossed paths with our mom. Siu was a source of love, warmth, and laughter. Even in her hardest moments, she gave selflessly to others, often putting their needs before her own. She had a way of making everyone feel at home, and the stories you shared with her will always be cherished. She was deeply loved and will truly be missed. We thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts, and may God continue to bless you.

Failotu will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Kihei. Apo (Service) will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Ballard Family Mortuary in Kahului. Family visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with services to follow from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Tanu (Farewell Service) will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Ballard Family Mortuary from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Valley Isle Memorial Park in Haʻikū.

Psalm 23:4

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.