Frederick Henry George Kilbey III

Dearest husband, son, father, grandfather, uncle, nephew, brother, and friend.

Frederick Henry George Kilbey III, known lovingly as “Rick,” was born on May 1st, 1944, in Honolulu, Hawaii, at Kapiolani hospital, to father Frederick H.G. Kilbey and mother LaVaina Nalimaapa (Apo) Kilbey. He was the youngest child and only son among four older sisters. He was raised in Kuliouou Valley, an old farming and ranching area of Oahu, Hawaii.

As a child, Rick helped his father milk cows and tend to the pigeons his dad raised professionally. Rick had fond memories of travelling with his father to his Uncle’s ranch on Molokai to manage cattle. Rick adored his mother, a homemaker, substitute teacher, and fantastic cook and baker who made his favorite dishes, such as chicken poi stew and prune cake. From his mother, Rick inherited his quiet strength, patience, and integrity, which stayed with him throughout his life.

Our beloved Rick enjoyed hiking atop the hills of Kuliouou, overlooking his family’s property. His deep appreciation for nature led him to spend summers with his older sister, “Freddie,” in Punaluu. He loved his time there and, at the end of summer, would often return to Kuliouou with a nice tan. It was in Punaluu that he would eventually meet his wife, Ellen.

Rick started his schooling at Star of the Sea and later attended St. Louis School, where he graduated in 1962. During the Vietnam War, Rick served for several years in the army and was stationed in Germany. While he did travel to various sites across the United States, his goal was always to return home to Hawaii.

Throughout his life, Rick’s professional experience spanned various fields, including landscaping, mechanics, nurseries, airline services, sanitation, maintenance, and entrepreneurial ventures he was passionate about. In addition to being well-rounded in these professions, Rick was extraordinary in character and grit. He firmly believed and lived by the idea that hard work came first and recreation second.

Soon after returning to Hawaii, Rick met his wife, Ellen, at a family get-together hosted at his older sister’s home in Punaluu, the same place he had spent his childhood summers. After meeting, Rick became a father to Ellen’s son, Michael, whom he considered his eldest child. And despite being told he could not father children, Rick and Ellen went on to have two sons and then a daughter.

As the patriarch of his family, Rick always wanted the best for them. Whether it was working extra hours or taking on a second job, he made it happen. His strong work ethic and focus on familial responsibilities and duties shadowed those of his parents and eldest sister, Rhobie, who served as a parental figure in his life.

The Kilbey’s residence in Punaluu was known as a gathering place for the neighborhood, family members, and friends. Rick prided himself on his role as family host to many over the years. He was a great cook and took joy in serving and watching others eat the food he had prepared before eating his own.

Rick was a friendly man who enjoyed a good conversation, with hugs, laughter, and memories. While known for his quiet nature, Rick learned best by listening and observing rather than by talking. So when he did have something to say, his words held more value.

Rick was a trustworthy and independent spirit who always stayed true to his beliefs. His strong sense of determination defined him in everything he did. It was these simple pleasures in life – faith, family, and quality time together - that made him the happiest.

Rick passed away at Adventist Health – Castle on Friday, December 26, 2025. His Celebration of Life Service was held on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Hawaiian Memorial in Kaneohe and followed by a military honors ceremonial burial. He was and will always be remembered for his care, candor, and welcome.

Rick is survived by:

Parents: LaVaina Nalimaapa (Apo) Kilbey (deceased) & Frederick H.G. Kilbey (deceased)

Wife: Ellen Umiokalani (Takemoto) Kilbey

Children: Fred, Jenn (daughter-in-law), Kani, Jennifer (daughter-in-law), Michael (deceased), Kanani, and Josh (son-in-law)

Grandchildren: Kealana, Haoa, Meilin, Jordan, Peyton, and Logan

Siblings: Rhobie Kilbey-Franks (deceased), LaVaina Basco (deceased), Fredenalda Ching, and Carolouise Rondon

Mahalo Nui for taking the time to honor and remember our beloved Rick. Please consider sharing a memory and/or photo on his digital memorial site here. We continue to appreciate and be inspired by all those our beloved Rick has impacted in his life.