Harold "Buddy" Vernon Nahonoaopiilani Botelho's Obituary
Harold “Buddy” Vernon Nahonoaopiilani Botelho (August 8, 1936 – December 29, 2025)
Harold “Buddy” V. Botelho, 89, of Honolulu, passed away on December 29, 2025, leaving a legacy of integrity, athletic spirit, and unwavering service to the island he loved. Born on August 8, 1936, to Joseph and Emma (Woodward) Botelho, Buddy was a cornerstone of his community, a humble and quiet soul who led by example and moved through life with a gentle, steady strength.
Buddy’s commitment to public safety spanned over half a century. After honorably serving in the U.S. Army in Korea, he returned home to join the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) in 1959. Throughout his long and distinguished tenure, Buddy became a respected fixture of the force, eventually rising to the rank of Police Sergeant. He served with a fair-minded approach and a calm demeanor that earned the trust of the community and his fellow officers alike. Following his retirement from HPD, he continued his life’s work in private security beginning in 1992, remaining a vigilant protector of the islands well into his later years.
A true believer in the "temple of the body," Buddy was a lifelong devotee of health and fitness. He possessed a relentless drive to stay active, and for decades, he could be found training with a discipline that mirrored his professional life. Whether he was on the baseball diamond, a sport he loved from his days at Maryknoll High School through his years coaching and playing in local leagues, or maintaining his personal fitness routine, Buddy remained in motion until he was physically unable to do so. For him, staying active wasn't just about health; it was a reflection of his resilience and his appreciation for the life he was given.
Buddy never sought the spotlight, preferring to let his actions speak for him. He was a man of few words but possessed a warm humor and an easy smile that made everyone feel welcome. He found his greatest peace in simple moments: reading the morning paper, a vigorous workout, or the quiet joy of being with family and get togethers.
Buddy was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Emma; his siblings, Julie “Sweetheart” Antoque, Emma Villa, and Sonny Botelho.
He is survived by his children: LoriLee “Uilani” (Kevin), Lot (Tracy), Leon (Val), Lyle (Wilma), Robby (Hoku), Lance (Diana), and Scott; as well as 18 grandchildren and 10 great-
grandchildren. They will forever carry forward the lessons of humility, kindness, and strength he shared with them.
A celebration of Buddy’s life will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park (47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, HI). Friends and family are invited to honor a man who taught us all that a life lived with curiosity and kindness is a life truly worth cheering.
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