Julian Kaleiopu

Julian Kaleiopu, of Wailuku, Maui, formerly of Lahaina, was called home on July 15, 2026, surrounded by his ʻohana as they sang his favorite songs. The sweet scent of gardenia and pīkake filled his bedroom as his family gathered to honor his final moments and return him home with the same love and aloha that he shared throughout his life. Julian was born on January 1, 1942, to Benjamin Nāiwi Kaleiopu and Theresa Kaʻaiawahia in Lahaina, Maui. He was born and raised on his family’s property, where he spent the majority of his life until it was lost in the 2023 Lahaina Wildfires. Though the physical home was gone, the memories, traditions, and generations of love created there remained forever rooted in his ʻohana. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rachel Kaleiopu; his cherished niece, Haunani Yap-Teruya; and his siblings Albert Hussey, Anthony Kaleiopu, Lily Kaleiopu, and Benjamin Kaleiopu. Julian dedicated his life to serving his community as a 25-year veteran of the Maui Police Department. He began his career on Molokaʻi, where he not only met the love of his life, Rachel, but also formed lifelong friendships with fellow officers who became more than coworkers, they became part of his extended ʻohana. Behind the badge he proudly wore as “Officer Kaleiopu,” the most honorable titles Julian held were Dad, Uncle, Papa, and Tūtū Papa. While many knew him as a strong and stern man, those closest to him knew the depth of his love, kindness, and generosity. Julian was not always a man of many words, and he did not often say “I love you.” Instead, he showed his love through the little things like the way he asked how you and your keiki were doing in school or sports, how work was going, or by quietly showing up when you needed him most. It was found in the simple gifts he shared, like a bowl of freshly cut mango picked from a neighbor’s tree on Hale Street, a gesture that carried more love than words could ever express.

Left to cherish his memory is his ʻohana: Children: Noe (Tommy) Akima, Sheryl Nakanelua, and Kalani (Kelcie) Kaleiopu Grandchildren: Kapili, TJ (Deanna), George (Chyeanne) and Lahela (Lopeti) Akima; Juraesha, Julynn (Kenui) and Clifford “Junga” (Chloe) ʻIʻi; Juseana-Rae Delatori; Cami Miguel; Dustin and Ethan Kaleiopu; Kiara Galicinao; and Stacia (Keev) Eng Great-grandchildren: Emmalei, Euryah, and Kaihaʻa Akima; Kalani Hussey; Taelynn, Kanekoa, and Kaʻiulani ʻIʻi-Dapitan; Makana ʻIʻi-Brummel; Briley-Ann and Brody ʻIʻi; Lauliʻiloā, Hōʻaka, Vailana and Vasaʻi Tuʻua; Brook-Lyn Feiteira; Kingston Clark; Callum Catalano; Kamren Kutsunai; and Kanoa and Aisea Taʻai. Julian also leaves behind many hānai children and grandchildren, along with countless extended family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were touched by his kindness, guidance, and aloha.

Celebration of Life Services- Family Viewing: 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Public Viewing: 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Procession to Family Home:

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Following the procession, ʻohana and friends are invited to join together for lunch at the Waiola Church grounds.