Satoshi Okamoto

Longtime Wailuku businessman and community leader, S. Stanley Okamoto, 93, passed away on January 31, 2020. Stanley was born in Wailuku to Shigemi and Shizuko Okamoto. He attended Baldwin High School and the University of Hawaii.

Stanley and his family have long supported the Honpa Hongwanji Kyodan and the Japanese American community both here and on the Mainland. Stanley’s Buddhist beliefs were the source of his devotion to others and his community. What motivated Stanley, were the ideals of service and gratitude to others.

He was a board member of Maui Hospice and has been a supporter of Hale Makua since its inception. He was one of the volunteers who built the original structure in 1946 and continued to support this organization by serving on its Foundation Board of Trustees. He served as the state president of the Maui Association of Life Underwriters and was named Life Professional of the year by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers. Stanley also served on civic committees such as the Maui Historic Commission, the Maui Planning Commission, Maui County Ethics Board, the Maui Japanese Community Association and the Maui Hiroshima Kenjin Kai. He was also a charter member of the Toastmaster’s Club of Maui (910) and helped establish an exercise program called “Run for Life.” He initiated the Buddhist "Sangha Award" in scouting and received both the Asian American Scouting Volunteer Award and prestigious Silver Beaver awards. In 2010, he was named as one of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s Living Treasures. The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii instituted this program to recognize and honor individuals for their sustained contributions toward building a more humane society.

He is survived by his daughter, Sandra (Steve); grandson, Justin; brother, George and sister in law, June as well as four nephews and their families. Funeral services will be held at Wailuku Hongwanji Mission on February 22, 2020 at 11:00 am with visitation at 10:00 am.