Steve “Cat” Catugal passed away on May 4, 2019, in Phoenix, Arizona. He was 68.

He will be remembered forever as a Maui grown, Lahaina Strong gentleman. Steve Catugal passed away unexpectedly last month at the age of 68, but the spirit of his enlightened personality will live on.

Steve “Cat” Catugal was a loving husband, father, brother and friend who manifested the honorable spirit of the Valley Isle.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathy, and together they raised two kind and beautiful children in Kelly and Keoni.

He was a Combat Veteran in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Later, he worked for United Airlines and the USDA.

He expanded his positive life influence as a martial arts master in Kung Fu and Tai Chi and owned the Maui Chinese Martial Arts Academy for 30 years.

He enjoyed fishing, diving, surfing, music and traveling the world. Most of all, he loved spending time with friends and family.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Catugal; daughter Kelly (Mike) Mills; son Keoni (Noel) Catugal; siblings Ricardo Catugal, Delafonte (Makanani) Catugal, Pauline (Bill) Stropp, Stanford (Cindy) Catugal, Kris Klask, Joan (Brett) Davenport, Valerie (Earl) Vierra and Dee (Clifford) Merriles; grandchildren Kialani, Kaleo and Kainoa Mills, and Kainalu, Kaila and Kailena Catugal; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings Patricia Catugal and Dennis, Carol and Chester Opaon.

Our sincere aloha to Steve and his family. May the Lord’s peace be with you always. (By Walter Chihara)