Joseph Iokepa Kanealii

Joseph "Joe" Iokepa Kanealii, 77, of Henderson, Nevada, died peacefully on August 11, 2024. Born September 20, 1946, in Honolulu, to Benjamin Kaeha and Rosaline Lokalia Kanealii Sr.; he was the eighth of 15 children.

Raised in Papakolea, Joe was an avid Boy Scout who attained the highest ranking of Eagle Scout. Surrounded by a loving family of uncles, aunts, cousins and friends, Joe continued the family's legacy of music while attending the Gospel of Salvation Church. He played the trumpet in the Roosevelt High School band and graduated in 1964. At 17, Joe left home to serve his country in the U.S. Army. Stationed in Germany for 3 years, he completed his service in the Army Reserve at Schofield Barracks in 1970 and received the National Defense Service Medal.

A man of diverse talents and skills, Joe was passionate about refurbishing his homes. He unselfishly helped others without expectations of reward and valued the deep connections with his children, including his extended family.

Joe was employed by Wasa Electric Inc. 41 years and retired in 2009. He spent his golden years traveling extensively, enjoying vacations, visiting relatives, and attended notable events like graduations, weddings, and family reunions. His amusing and often comical manner will be sorely missed. He was loved and admired by all who knew and met him.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin & Rosaline Kanealii Sr., brothers: Benjamin Kaeha (Mary) Kanealii, Jr., Samuel Kanealii, Isaac (Kathy) Kanealii; sisters: Dolores (Lee) Bowen, Maile (Jack) Baker, Kehau (larry) Higashi, Raynette (John) Saito, Julie Ann Kanealii.

Joe is survived by son, Travis Bowers of Kauai; daughters: Linda Donner of Chicago, IL, Mechelle (Peniamina) Lave of Henderson, NV, Ashley Ann (Paul) Acosta of Kona, HI, Kristen Kanealii (Hector Perales) of San Antonio, TX. 11 grandchildren, 1 great-grandson, brothers: Alfred (Darlene) Kanealii of WA, Kelii (Elisha) Kanealii of Kauai; sisters: Hana (Togo) Ralar, Wainani (Patrick) Yim, Honey (Canoe) Higa, and Lani (Aulden) Kaina, all of Honolulu. Cousins: Pua (Rodney) Higashi, Lani (Richard) Nishimura. Companion, Flo Rangasan. Numerous nieces and nephews, friends, hanai extended family.