Joseph Dominick Francese Jr.

Born prematurely in 1949 at Tripler Hospital, weighing less than 3 pounds, he defied the odds to become the record holder for the smallest surviving baby at the time. Despite being partially blind due to oxygen treatment, Joe became fascinated with airplanes which continued throughout his childhood and into adulthood. As a kid, Joe's Korean grandmother bribed him to drink her health concoctions for a dollar, which he used to buy model airplanes. Though his dream of becoming a pilot was out of reach due to his imperfect sight, his aviation knowledge grew to rival nearly anyone on the subject, and he could identify 90% of the world’s aircraft.

Joe’s spiritual journey was equally profound. Joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 14, he held fast to his faith even when required to attend Catholic Church while living with his father in New York. Returning to Hawaii as an adult, he reconnected with the LDS church, forming lifelong bonds. In 1982, he met his wife Judy through the church, and they married in the Laie temple in 1983, building a life together rooted in faith. Joe passed away on June 4, 2025, at 75, leaving behind his wife, Judy, and sons David Makana and Aaron Richard, having been predeceased by sons Christopher Keo and Joseph Malakai. Born to Daisy Chun of Wahiawa and Joseph Francese, Sr. of Wappingers Falls, NY, Joe was the eldest of four, with siblings Tom, Carmella, and Annie.

Joe’s legacy of faith, perseverance, and love for family and aviation will endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 99-641 Pohue Street, Aiea, HI 96701. Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m.