Ellsworth Kekela Ili's Obituary
Ellsworth Kekela Ili, 74, of Hilo, passed on April 9, 2013 at home. A faithful believer and lover of God, he was born in Hilo, served in the United States Air Force, and retired from JC Penney. He fulfilled his lifelong dream after retiring and earned a B.A. in Hawaiian Studies from the University of Hawaii-West Oahu. His community contributions include serving as a counselor and journalist for the Honolulu Boy Choir from 1979 to 1992, and participating as a Kupuna for the State of Hawaii Kupuna Program at Nanaikapono Elementary School.
He is survived by his loving wife, Anne Ili; Children: Robin and her husband Lester Luahiwa, Ryan and his wife Miki Makua, Ronda Makua, Lynn and her husband Dale Akeo, Sarah Ili, and Russell and his wife Keala Ili. Grandchildren: Kaleikula, Kukahi, Puna, Wailehua, Kahanuala, Tita, Nahinu, Leipomaikai, Naleihoku, Mahina, Kealahonua, Hiilei, Kekela, and Kealohikea. Sisters: Mary Jane (Ronald) Makua, Mele (Melvin) Ah Ho, and Maydeen (Mitchell) Bailey. Nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of his life will be held at Dodo Mortuary in Hilo, Hawaii on Saturday, May 4. Visitation from 8AM to 10AM, service at 10AM. A second celebration will be held at Hawaiian Memorial Park in Kaneohe, Oahu on Friday, May 10. Visitation from 10AM to 12PM, service at 12PM. Committal service at 2PM at the Hawaiian Memorial Park Veterans Cemetary. Aloha attire.
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