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Community loses William Kokoo Waiohu

By Staff | Dec 6, 2012

Waiohu

WEST MAUI – William Kokoo Waiohu passed away on Nov. 20. Services have not yet been scheduled.

Waiohu was born on July 11, 1941. He was raised in Ukumehame and also lived in Olowalu, Kauaula, Wainee and Kelawea Mauka on the West Side. He attended Lahainaluna High School.

He worked for Pioneer Mill as a bulldozer operator and enjoyed fishing.

A 100 percent Hawaiian, Waiohu in 1993 became kupuna to Bumpy Kanahele in the Independent Nation of Hawaii.

“He became a strong, sovereign kupuna,” said his relative, Aunty Patty Nishiyama.

A cultural resource, Waiohu served with Na Kupuna O Maui and the Maui/Lanai Islands Burial Council. In 1996, he assisted Bishop Museum Archeologist Paul Klieger in research at Moku’ula in Lahaina.

Waiohu spoke fluent Hawaiian and embodied the word “steadfast,” participating in numerous kupuna actions and demonstrations, including Save Keka’a, Calls to Ku’e, building the ahu at Villages of Leiali’i and marches to protect Hawaiian rights and entitlements.

Waiohu is survived by his brother, Henry Waiohu, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. His son, William Bega Waiohu, passed away at the age of eight.