Lillian Nanipua’ala Kaeha

Lillian Nanipua’ala Kaeha 80, of Waianae and formerly of Hilo, known to all as “Aunty Nani”, passed away on April 9, 2026 in Honolulu. Born on August 4, 1945, at home in Keaukaha, Hawaii. Nani was a Graduate of
Kamehameha Schools class of 1963. Also, a member of New Hope Chapel Hilo and The
Redeemed City of Zion, Holy Hill in Nanakuli. Nani was a retired Custodian for University of
Hawaii at Hilo and was affiliated with numerous Clubs and Associations. She was an Executive
Board member for Pana’ewa Hawaiian Homelands Community Association, The Pana’ewa
Community Alliance and The ILWU Pensioners Club in Hilo. She was also a member of various
Bowling Clubs in Hilo.
Nani was preceded in death by her beloved Husband, James “Ula” Kaeha Jr. and Sons, Dino &
George Kaeha; Parents, Alexander and Elizabeth Kalauli Sr.; Brothers, Alika, Freddy,
Richardson, Mitchell, John, Danny and Randy Kalauli; Also preceded in death by Parent Inlaws,
James and Elizabeth Kaeha Sr.
Nani is survived by Sons, James Kealoha (Crystal) Kaeha III of Nanakuli and Sonny (Stephanie)
Apolo of Hilo; Daughters, Elizabeth “Tita” (Arnold Abot) Kaeha of Hilo and Dawn Enos of Hilo;
Daughter in law, Uilani Kaeha of Waianae; Aunt, Leina’ala George of Pearl City; Sister in laws,
H. Keola Kalauli of Hilo, Dona Kaeha of Keaau, Josephine “Momi” Kalauli of Honolulu and
Winna Kalauli of Arizona. Brother in law, David Hall of Maui. Hanai children, Francis ”Adobo”
(Rochelle) Carter of Hilo, Suzanna”Sue” Mahi and Cyrus Nagamine of Kona. Numerous
grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a great- great grandson; nieces, nephews and cousins.
Moms Celebration of Life will be held on Aug 21, 2026 from 4pm-9pm at the Haili Tent in
Pana’ewa, Hilo, Hawaii. Casual attire in Green. Flowers and Lei’s are welcomed.