Martin Lukela Aikala Sr.

Martin Lukela Aikala, 88, of Waiehu, Maui, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 23, 1937, in Kula, Maui, Hawaiʻi, to Charles and Mary Aikala.

Martin is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Helen Godinet Aikala; his children, Vanessa (Orlando) Balmores, Martin (Darline) Aikala, Saʻofetalai (Mark Ashley) Faulkner, Danielle (Ron) Davis, Charles (Maggie) Aikala, and hānai daughter Tuvale (Peato) Mafuatu-Pauli; 17 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, George Aikala, Lillian “Sweetheart” Rosa, and Augusta Rose “Girlie” Plante. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Aikala, and his siblings, Howard “Sonny” Aikala, Roger “Pake” Aikala, Vivian “Honey Girl” Aki, Daniel “Danny” Aikala, and Harriet “Cupie” Lindsey.

Martin proudly served four years in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. Following his military service, he built a distinguished career as a Journeyman Iron Worker. His work took him throughout Hawaiʻi and to Kwajalein. He also spent several years in American Samoa working as a plumber before returning home to Hawaiʻi, where he continued his career as an Iron Worker until his retirement. He was respected for his strong work ethic, craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication to providing for his family.

A man of deep faith, Martin attended King’s Cathedral in Kahului and served as Vice President of the Maui Happy Senior Club at Hale Mahaolu e Kolu. He valued fellowship, service, and the relationships he built throughout his life.

Martin was a lifelong learner and passionate genealogist with extensive knowledge of family history, Hawaiian genealogy, and Hawaiian lands. He found great joy in preserving family stories and helping others discover their roots. He loved singing karaoke, landscaping, fixing things around the house, and sharing his many talents with family and friends. An excellent cook, he delighted in preparing meals that brought loved ones together around the table.

Family was the center of Martin’s life. He treasured family gatherings, beach days, and every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he was a constant and loving presence in his family's lives. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored him, and he cherished each of them deeply. He will be remembered for his witty and sassy sense of humor, generous heart, steady guidance, and unwavering love for his ʻohana. Above all, he loved Jesus and lived a life grounded in faith, family, and service to others.

Martin’s legacy of love, strength, wisdom, and devotion will continue to live on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.

Services will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Ballard Family Mortuary in Kahului. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with funeral services to follow at 11:00 a.m.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23