Hamilton Imua Chai

Hamilton Imua Chai, 61, of Honolulu, passed away on September 8, 2023. He was born on October 16, 1962. Hamilton attended Kailua High School and later pursued a career as a Prison Guard at Halawa Correctional Facility. His dedication and commitment to his work were exemplary. He was an accomplished bodybuilder, winning multiple competitions throughout the years. In 1982, he was crowned Mr. Hawaii, and in subsequent years, he took first place in the Paradise Cup in 1988 and 1989. In 1990, Hamilton achieved the title of Paradise Cup overall winner, and in 1991, he once again claimed first place in the Hawaiian Islands Bodybuilding competition.

Hamilton had a strong sense of family and is survived by his mother, Emiko Colburn, his daughter, Shylah Puga, his brothers Coppin Colburn, Harrington Chai, and Harrison Chai, and his sisters Emi-Lei Colburn-Gibson, Debbra Colburn, Jolynn Colburn, and Glenda Kamakana. 2 Grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his fathers, Harold K. Chai, and Donald Colburn, as well as his mother, Esther K. Chai, his daughter Stacy Chai, his brothers Harold Chai, Hilton Chai, Hensley Chai, and his sisters Georgiana Morisako, Gwendolyn Sandon, Geraldine Hookano, Genevive Nixon, Gaylien Couchman, and Germaine Chai-Siafuafu.

In his free time, Hamilton dedicated himself to his physical fitness and bodybuilding pursuits. He was a devoted member of the bodybuilding community and achieved remarkable success in his competitions.