George Kaanana

George Kaanana, 87, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 5, 2021 at home in Makawao, Hawaii. Born in Kahului, Maui on February 22, 1934 to the late David Kaanana & Ida Kahue, he lived a full life.

Dad leaves behind his three children; George Kawika Kaanana (Mary), Ynez Evalani Gomola (Robert Sr.), and Eunice Kealoha Kaanana-Ramos (the late Christopher), seven Grandchildren; Tony Lehman, Robert Gomola, Ashley-Nicole Ray, Daniel Kaanana, Malia Kaanana, TJ Kaanana, and Cherie Kaanana, and five Great Grandchildren; Leilani Gomola, Havana Tanji, Ryker Tanji, Carmen “Pueo” Kaanana-Cummings, and Ethan Ray along with Ohana and friends.

Dad was a 1953 graduate of Lahainaluna where he was a boarder, and well-known all-star athlete. He was in the military with an honorable discharge from the Army in 1958. Jobs held was at Ige Construction, Maui Lu, and Wailea-Intercontinental Hotels where he retired. Dad’s first love after God and family was teaching martial arts, specifically; Kajukenbo-Emperado’s Method. Dad began training in the early 1950's and has been committed to the Arts ever since. He achieved the esteemed rank of Senior Grand Master. He has trained many students where he gave generously of his time and himself. Many of them continued to call or visit him until his final days. Above all things, Dad truly cherished his family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Norman’s Mortuary with a private burial to follow at Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao. Due to the ongoing pandemic, we kindly ask for those in attendance, to wear masks, social distance & follow guidelines at all times. For service information, please contact Kealoha (808)280-7047, Ynez (757)725-3371, or George (808)542-6554.

Arrangements by Norman's Mortuary.