Lester Benjamin Santos' Obituary
Lester Benjamin Santos, 85, passed away March 9, 2018 in Antioch, California.
Born in January 23, 1933 in Honolulu, HI. The 1st of two sons, to the late Joseph R. Santos Jr. (Father) and Thelma H. Rosa Santos (Mother) and Sidney D. Santos (Brother).
Gifted and talented at the age of 6 years old, studied the art of Judo under the Master Okazaki of Japan. Eventually was awarded his 3rd Degree Black Belt thus, earning him the title of "Sensei" (teacher) for himself.
Lester was very physically active, had a infinite love of all sports. One of the original "Waikiki Beach Boys" during the 1950's. Participating and working heavily in canoeing and surfing with all the native Hawaiians, including the famous "Duke Kahanamoku".
Graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1952. Star football player for Roosevelt High School and the University of Hawaii. He was chosen to play for Charity with the Shriner's Hospital for Children of Honolulu.
Move to San Francisco, California in 1960's.
Opened his own Judo School in San Francisco. Lester was such a philanthropist, he would help students who were struggling financially to study the art of Judo at no charge. Giving back to the Dojo (School) was very important to him. He also taught private lessons to the clients who were the elite of San Francisco.
Served his community faithfully as a San Francisco Police Officer for 28 years, from 1964 thru 1992.
Moved towards the east bay from San Francisco in 1991 with his wife and retired from the San Francisco Police Department in March 1992. Lester and his wife were married for 32 years, together they both raised 2 proud wonderful daughters.
Lester had a great passion for music, the performing arts, antique cars, cared for all his pets, tropical birds, horses and his dogs. Devoted husband and father always. While traveling he always preferred to be by the ocean. He will always be remembered for his island persona and sense of humor. His heart and soul never left Hawaii and knew he was returning home.
His favorite words, "Aloha Always"
Lester is survived by wife, Wanda Yee Santos; daughters, Ashley Ann Santos, Katherine M. Yee Santos and Debra Ann House and extended family.
Funeral Services are scheduled for Thursday April 12, 2018 at Hawaiian Memorial Park Mortuary. Visitation: 11:00 a.m.; Service: 12 noon; burial 2:00 p.m. at Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery.
Arrangements by Hawaiian Memorial Park Mortuary
45-425 Kamehameha Hwy., Kaneohe, HI 96744
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